If you love desserts that feel light, fluffy, and bursting with fresh strawberry goodness, this Strawberry Cloud Cake Recipe is absolutely going to become your new favorite treat. Imagine a velvety cream cheese filling swirled with vibrant strawberry jam atop a buttery, crisp graham cracker crust—all coming together without ever turning on the oven. It’s the kind of no-bake dessert that feels like a cloud melting in your mouth, perfectly sweet and refreshingly fruity. Whether you’re entertaining friends or craving a sweet summer indulgence, this cake delivers pure joy in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Strawberry Cloud Cake Recipe is built on simple, everyday ingredients that each play a starring role in creating its dreamy texture and unforgettable flavor. From the crunchy crust to the creamy filling, every element is essential to achieving that perfect cloud-like consistency and sweet strawberry sparkle.
- Graham cracker crumbs (1 ½ cups): The golden, buttery base that adds a delightful crunch and classic flavor.
- Unsalted butter (6 tablespoons, melted): Binds the crust crumbs together and adds rich depth.
- Granulated sugar (2 tablespoons): Sweetens the crust just enough for balance.
- Heavy whipping cream (1 cup): Whipped to stiff peaks, it brings airy lightness to the filling.
- Cream cheese (8 oz, softened): Creates the creamy and tangy heart of the cake.
- Powdered sugar (½ cup): Smoothly sweetens the filling without graininess.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Adds warm aromatic notes enhancing all flavors.
- Fresh strawberries (1 ½ cups, chopped): Offers bright color and juicy bursts of fruity goodness.
- Strawberry jam or preserves (1 cup): Swirled through the filling for that irresistible marbled look and extra sweetness.
- Extra strawberries for topping (optional): For a pretty, fresh finish that invites you to dig in.
- Whipped cream for garnish (optional): Adds a final fluffy flourish just before serving.
How to Make Strawberry Cloud Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Start by combining the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar in a medium bowl. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated with butter and hold together when pressed. Firmly press this mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to create a compact crust layer that will support your fluffy filling. Pop the crust into the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the next steps—this will help it set to a perfect crunch without baking.
Step 2: Whip the Cream
In a large mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream until it forms stiff peaks. This means when you lift the whisk out of the bowl, the cream holds its shape firmly without collapsing. Stiffly whipped cream is essential for that signature lightness and cloud-like texture of the cake’s filling. Set the whipped cream aside gently, so it stays fluffy and ready to fold in.
Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Filling
In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s completely smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract while continuing to mix, creating a sweet, silky base. Be patient here—getting a perfectly lump-free cream cheese mixture ensures the filling will be heavenly smooth.
Step 4: Combine and Add Strawberries
Carefully fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture, folding gently to maintain all the airiness you just whipped into the cream. Next, stir in the chopped fresh strawberries, then swirl in the strawberry jam or preserves a little at a time. Don’t fully mix the jam in; leaving swirled streaks throughout creates a beautiful marbled effect that’s as stunning as it is tasty.
Step 5: Assemble and Chill
Pour the luscious filling over the chilled crust, spreading it evenly and smoothing the top with a spatula. Cover the entire cake and place it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours to allow it to set firmly. This chilling step is key—it helps the flavors meld deliciously and the cake develop that iconic soft, cloud-like structure.
How to Serve Strawberry Cloud Cake Recipe
Garnishes
When you’re ready to bring your Strawberry Cloud Cake Recipe to the table, top it with extra fresh strawberries for a burst of color and freshness. A dollop of whipped cream adds an inviting, fluffy touch that enhances the creamy filling. These simple garnishes take the cake from gorgeous to dazzling, making it almost too pretty to eat.
Side Dishes
This delightful dessert pairs beautifully with light accompaniments such as a crisp green salad or even a small scoop of vanilla ice cream if you want to double down on indulgence. For a refreshing contrast, a glass of chilled sparkling rosé or a fruity iced tea also complements the cake’s sweet strawberry notes perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Looking for a fun twist? Try serving the Strawberry Cloud Cake Recipe in individual mini tart pans or clear jars for a charming single-serve dessert option perfect for parties. You can also layer the filling in parfait glasses with crushed graham crackers and fresh fruit for a strawberry cloud-inspired trifle that’s sure to wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once assembled, your Strawberry Cloud Cake is best stored covered in the refrigerator to keep its freshness and texture intact. It will stay delicious for up to 3 days, making it the perfect pre-made dessert for busy days or unexpected guests.
Freezing
If you’d like to freeze your Strawberry Cloud Cake Recipe, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to protect against freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator for a soft, creamy texture almost like freshly made. Note that fresh strawberries on top may not freeze well, so add those after thawing.
Reheating
Since this cake is served chilled and has no baking involved, reheating is not recommended. Simply allow the cake to come to cool room temperature for a few minutes before slicing if you prefer it less chilled for easier serving.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries for this recipe?
Fresh strawberries are ideal for the best texture and flavor, but you can use frozen strawberries if you thaw and drain them well. This prevents excess moisture from making the filling too runny.
Is this cake suitable for vegetarians?
Yes! This Strawberry Cloud Cake Recipe uses ingredients like cream cheese and whipping cream, which are vegetarian-friendly, making it a great dessert choice for vegetarians.
Can I substitute the cream cheese with Greek yogurt?
You certainly can substitute part of the cream cheese with Greek yogurt for a lighter version, but keep in mind it will slightly change the richness and texture of the cake.
How long does it take for the cake to set properly?
For the best results, allow the cake to chill and set for at least 4 hours in the refrigerator. This ensures the filling firms up and the flavors meld beautifully.
Can I make this cake ahead of time for a party?
Absolutely! This no-bake Strawberry Cloud Cake Recipe is perfect for making ahead. Prepare it the day before and keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to serve.
Final Thoughts
Now that you’ve discovered this irresistibly light and creamy Strawberry Cloud Cake Recipe, I hope you’ll give it a whirl and experience firsthand the magic of this no-bake delight. It’s simple, stunning, and downright delicious—a dessert that’s truly worthy of celebration any time you want to impress with ease and flavor. Happy baking…
Print
Strawberry Cloud Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in this luscious Strawberry Cloud Cake, a no-bake dessert featuring a buttery graham cracker crust and a creamy, fluffy filling swirled with fresh strawberries and strawberry jam. Perfect for summer, this light yet indulgent cake is topped with extra strawberries and whipped cream for an elegant finish.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
Filling
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups fresh strawberries, chopped
- 1 cup strawberry jam or preserves
Toppings (Optional)
- Extra strawberries for topping
- Whipped cream for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted unsalted butter, and granulated sugar. Mix thoroughly until the crumbs are well coated with butter. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form an even crust layer. Place it in the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the filling.
- Whip the cream: In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to whip the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form. Set aside carefully to maintain airiness.
- Make the cream cheese mixture: In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until completely smooth and creamy, ensuring no lumps remain.
- Combine cream and cream cheese: Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully incorporated, taking care to keep the mixture light and fluffy.
- Add strawberries and jam: Fold in the chopped fresh strawberries, then gently swirl in the strawberry jam or preserves. Avoid mixing completely to create a beautiful marbled effect within the filling.
- Assemble the cake: Spoon the strawberry cream cheese filling over the chilled graham cracker crust in the springform pan. Smooth the top evenly with a spatula or the back of a spoon.
- Chill to set: Cover the pan with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until the filling is set and firm.
- Garnish and serve: Before serving, optionally top the cake with additional fresh strawberries and dollops of whipped cream for an extra-special presentation. Slice and enjoy chilled.
Notes
- For a lighter option, substitute part of the cream cheese with Greek yogurt or use light cream cheese.
- You can create individual portions by using mini tart pans or jars instead of one large cake.
- Ensure heavy cream is cold before whipping for best volume and texture.
- Use fresh, ripe strawberries for optimal flavor in the filling and topping.
