No-Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake: 5 Easy Steps to Heavenly Dessert

Tired of spending hours in a hot kitchen just to create a show-stopping dessert? We’ve all been there the measuring, the mixing, the precise baking times, and then the disappointment when things don’t turn out as expected. But what if I told you there’s a way to create a dessert that’s both impressive and effortless?

This No-Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake is the answer to your dessert prayers a light, airy creation that practically melts in your mouth with each heavenly bite. As the creator behind GusRecipes, I’ve perfected this recipe through countless family gatherings where it consistently disappears within minutes!

Hi, I’m Emma, the heart behind GusRecipes, and I believe desserts should bring joy without stress. This cloud cake has become my signature offering at summer get-togethers, earning me the unofficial title of “Dessert Queen” among friends and family. The beauty lies in its simplicity combined with show-stopping presentation.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through selecting the perfect strawberries, creating that cloud-like texture, and assembling your masterpiece plus variations to make it your own! Let’s create a dessert that looks professional but requires minimal effort.

Why This No-Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake Recipe Works

● Uses readily available ingredients from any grocery store
● No oven required – perfect for hot summer days
● Can be made up to 24 hours ahead for stress-free entertaining
● Light texture makes it the perfect finish to any meal
● Impresses guests with minimal effort on your part

Choosing the Right Ingredients for Your No-Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake

Fresh Strawberries: The Star of the Show

The foundation of this dreamy dessert lies in selecting perfectly ripe strawberries. Look for berries with a bright red color that extends all the way to the stem. They should be fragrant and firm but not hard. Avoid strawberries with white shoulders or dull appearances these lack flavor.

Cookie Crust Considerations

While traditional graham crackers work beautifully, don’t be afraid to experiment with vanilla wafers, digestive biscuits, or even shortbread cookies for the base. Each brings a slightly different flavor profile that can complement the strawberries in unique ways.

Cream Components

For that signature cloud-like texture, quality matters. Use full-fat cream cheese at room temperature for smoothest results. Heavy whipping cream should be very cold for best volume when whipped. And a touch of real vanilla extract makes all the difference.

Ingredients & Prep for No-Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake

Base Essentials

• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
• Pinch of salt

Cloud Filling Components

• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 cups heavy whipping cream
• 1 tablespoon unflavored gelatin (optional for firmer texture)

Fresh Strawberry Layer

• 2 pounds fresh strawberries, divided
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Step-by-Step No-Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake Instructions

1. Preparing Your No-Bake Strawberry Cake Crust

Start by crushing graham crackers in a food processor until finely ground. Mix with melted butter and sugar until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, creating an even layer. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to set while preparing other components.

2. Creating the Cloud-Like No-Bake Filling

Beat softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until fully incorporated. In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture using a spatula with an under-and-over motion to maintain airiness. This gentle handling is crucial for that signature cloud-like texture.

3. Preparing Strawberries for Your No-Bake Cake

Hull and slice two-thirds of the strawberries. Place in a bowl with sugar and lemon juice, gently tossing to coat. Let sit for 15 minutes to release juices. Reserve the remaining berries for decoration.

4. Assembling Your No-Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake

Remove the chilled crust from the refrigerator. Spread half the cream mixture over the crust. Arrange a layer of the macerated strawberry slices on top, reserving the accumulated juices. Add remaining cream mixture, smoothing the top with an offset spatula.

5. Final Touches for Your No-Bake Dessert

Arrange remaining fresh strawberries on top in a decorative pattern. Drizzle with reserved strawberry juice or make a quick glaze by heating the juice with a teaspoon of cornstarch. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to fully set before serving.

Pro Tips for Perfect No-Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake

Achieving the Perfect Texture

Use a springform pan lined with parchment paper for easiest removal. For clean slices, dip your knife in hot water and wipe clean between cuts.

Tool Recommendations

A quality stand mixer or hand mixer is invaluable for achieving the perfect cream consistency. A springform pan is essential for easy serving.

Storage & Make-Ahead Options

This cake can be made up to 24 hours ahead and stored covered in the refrigerator. For best results, add the fresh strawberry decoration no more than 4 hours before serving.

Looking for more dessert inspiration? Check out my Pinterest page at pinterest where I share collections of no-bake wonders that will revolutionize your dessert game!

Flavor Variations for No-Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake

Mixed Berry Extravaganza

Replace half the strawberries with a mixture of blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries for a colorful twist.

Citrus Infusion

Add lemon or lime zest to the cream mixture and a tablespoon of citrus juice for a tangy complement to the sweet berries.

Chocolate Lover’s Dream

Layer the bottom with chocolate cookie crumbs instead of graham crackers and drizzle the top with melted chocolate for an indulgent variation.

Serving Suggestions for No-Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake

This ethereal dessert stands beautifully on its own, but can be elevated with a few thoughtful accompaniments. Serve with a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream for extra indulgence. A small scoop of vanilla ice cream creates a delightful temperature contrast. For an elegant touch, garnish plates with a light dusting of powdered sugar and fresh mint leaves.

Beverage pairings that complement this dessert include sparkling water with lemon, herbal iced tea, or coffee for a wonderful contrast to the sweet, creamy cake.

FAQs About No-Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Fresh strawberries work best for the decoration, but thawed frozen strawberries can work for the filling layer. Be sure to drain excess liquid before using.

My filling isn’t firm enough. What went wrong?

This usually happens if the cream wasn’t whipped to stiff peaks or if the cake didn’t chill long enough. For a firmer texture, try adding 1 tablespoon of unflavored gelatin bloomed in 3 tablespoons of water.

Can I make this dessert dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute dairy-free cream cheese and coconut cream (chilled and whipped) for the traditional dairy ingredients.

Conclusion

Creating a stunning dessert doesn’t require professional baking skills or hours in the kitchen. This No-Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake proves that with just 5 simple steps, you can craft a dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

I hope this recipe brings the same joy to your table that it has to mine over the years. The look of delight when someone takes their first bite makes every moment of preparation worthwhile.

Ready to impress your guests without breaking a sweat? Give this No-Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake a try this weekend! And if you do, I’d love to see your creations tag @GusRecipes on social media so I can admire your handiwork.

For more effortless desserts that deliver maximum impact, explore my other sweet recipes that have been tested and perfected in my kitchen just for you!

No-Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake: 5 Easy Steps to Heavenly Dessert

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• Author: Emma Emma
• Total Time: 6 hrs 20 mins (includes chilling)
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

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Description

A light, fluffy, and refreshing no-bake strawberry cloud cake  made with layers of creamy whipped filling, fresh strawberries, and a buttery graham cracker crust. Perfect for summer or any time you crave something sweet and airy!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

2 cups graham cracker crumbs

1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened

1 cup powdered sugar

1 tsp vanilla extract

2 cups heavy whipping cream

2 cups fresh strawberries, chopped

1 (3 oz) box strawberry gelatin

1/2 cup boiling water

1/2 cup cold water

Extra sliced strawberries for garnish

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Instructions

1. In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs with melted butter until combined.

2. Press mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Chill in the fridge.

3. In a small bowl, dissolve strawberry gelatin in boiling water, then stir in cold water. Let cool slightly.

4. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth.

5. In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form.

6. Fold whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until light and fluffy.

7. Fold in cooled gelatin and chopped strawberries until evenly distributed.

8. Pour the mixture over the chilled crust and smooth the top.

9. Refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight until set.

10. Top with extra sliced strawberries before serving.

Notes

For extra flavor, mix some crushed freeze-dried strawberries into the crust.

You can substitute raspberries or peaches for a different fruit twist.

Best served chilled and consumed within 3 days for maximum freshness.

• Prep Time: 20 mins
• Cook Time: 0 mins
• Category: Dessert
• Method: No-Bake
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 340
• Sugar: 26g
• Sodium: 180mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 13g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 65mg

Keywords: no-bake strawberry dessert, strawberry cloud cake, summer dessert, whipped cream cake