Meet the Strawberry Cloud Cake, a dessert that truly lives up to its name. Imagine sinking your fork into layers of fluffy white cake, cascading clouds of creamy topping, and rivers of sweet, juicy strawberries. Every bite balances a pillow-soft texture with bright berry flavor, making this the perfect sweet escape for summer get-togethers, birthdays, or whenever you crave a little extra joy. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just breaking out your first cake pan, this dreamy treat manages to be both spectacular and simple.

Strawberry Cloud Cake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Strawberry Cloud Cake is how it takes basic ingredients and transforms them into something show-stopping. Each element adds its own magic, from the light and tender cake to the lush strawberries and rich, billowy topping. Here’s exactly what you’ll need — plus a few pro-tips to make every layer shine.

White cake mix: This classic shortcut keeps things easy, but delivers a soft, sponge-like foundation that’s perfect for soaking up juicy berries.
Eggs, oil, and water: The essentials to bring your cake mix to life; use what’s listed on your box for best results.
Fresh strawberries (1 pint, hulled and sliced): Fresh berries burst with flavor and color — the centerpiece of every slice.
Sugar (2 tablespoons): Macerating the strawberries with sugar helps create a syrupy sauce that infuses the cake with sweetness.
Lemon juice (1 teaspoon): A splash enhances berry brightness and keeps them vibrant.
Heavy whipping cream (1 cup): Whips up into the dreamy, cloud-like topping you’ve been craving.
Powdered sugar (1/4 cup): Sweetens and stabilizes the whipped cream without any grittiness.
Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Adds a touch of warmth and rounds out all the flavors.
Cream cheese (8 oz, softened): For a subtle tang and extra richness in the topping — make sure it’s soft for easy mixing.
Whipped topping (8 oz, such as Cool Whip): Folding this in gives the topping its ultra-fluffy texture that sets the Strawberry Cloud Cake apart.
Extra strawberries (for garnish): Crowning the cake with extra berries makes it look as fresh and enticing as it tastes.

How to Make Strawberry Cloud Cake

Step 1: Bake the Cake

Start by preparing your white cake mix following the package directions — usually adding eggs, oil, and water. Pour the batter into a 9×13-inch pan and bake until the top is lightly golden and a toothpick comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely in its pan; this ensures every piece will hold up under all those luscious toppings.

Step 2: Macerate the Strawberries

While your cake cools, create the strawberry magic. In a bowl, toss the hulled and sliced strawberries with sugar and lemon juice. Let them sit for 15 to 20 minutes; the berries will soften and release their juices, creating a bright, sweet syrup that soaks beautifully into your cake base.

Step 3: Whip the Cream

In a large mixing bowl, pour in your cold heavy whipping cream. Add powdered sugar and vanilla, then beat on high speed until stiff peaks form. This creates a fluffy, stable whipped cream that will make your Strawberry Cloud Cake impossibly light.

Step 4: Make the Fluffy Topping

Grab a second bowl for the softened cream cheese. Beat it until completely smooth and creamy; this keeps the topping from becoming lumpy. Gently fold in the container of whipped topping until the mixture looks silky. Now, fold in your freshly whipped cream, blending with slow, airy movements to keep it extra-light and cloudlike.

Step 5: Layer the Cake

Once your base is fully cooled, spoon half of the juicy macerated strawberries (with their syrup) evenly over the cake. Next, carefully spread the cream cheese-whipped cream topping across the berry layer, using an offset spatula for swoops and swirls. Finish by scattering the remaining strawberries over the top.

Step 6: Chill and Serve

To allow all the flavors to meld and the topping to set, chill your Strawberry Cloud Cake in the refrigerator for at least two hours before slicing. Just before serving, garnish with extra fresh strawberry slices for a gorgeous, bakery-worthy finish.

How to Serve Strawberry Cloud Cake

Garnishes

There’s nothing quite like a parade of fresh strawberries crowning your cake; arrange sliced, fanned, or halved berries to make every piece pop. You can also sprinkle a dusting of powdered sugar, add a few mint leaves, or even dot the top with white chocolate shavings for extra elegance.

Side Dishes

Because the Strawberry Cloud Cake is so airy and luscious already, pair it with something light: a cup of tea, sparkling lemonade, or some vanilla ice cream. On a warm day, a side of fresh mixed berries or a spoonful of Greek yogurt makes for a beautiful, brunch-worthy plate.

Creative Ways to Present

This cake isn’t just for slabs and squares! Try layering the components in a clear trifle dish for a show-stopping presentation, or scoop into individual dessert jars for picnics and parties. You can even cut out rounds with a biscuit cutter and stack for mini layer cakes — each the perfect little Strawberry Cloud Cake all by itself.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Strawberry Cloud Cake should be stored tightly covered in the refrigerator. The cake will stay soft and the topping will remain fluffy for up to three days. Just be aware the strawberries may release more juices over time, which only makes the cake even more moist and delicious.

Freezing

While this cake is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze individual portions if needed. Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results; the texture of the cream will be slightly softer, but every bite is still dreamy.

Reheating

No need to reheat the Strawberry Cloud Cake, as it’s meant to be enjoyed chilled straight from the fridge. If someone prefers it, let a slice sit at room temperature for about 10 to 15 minutes for a softer-set topping, but avoid microwaving to preserve the delicate textures.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries if fresh ones aren’t available. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before macerating, as they tend to be juicier and may add more liquid to the cake.

Can I make Strawberry Cloud Cake a day ahead?

Absolutely! In fact, making the cake a day ahead allows the flavors to meld and the creamy topping to set perfectly. Just cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to serve.

What other fruit can I use?

Feel free to experiment! Raspberries, blueberries, or even peaches all work beautifully in the same style. You can even combine a medley of berries for a jewel-toned, flavorful twist on the traditional Strawberry Cloud Cake.

How do I keep the whipped cream from deflating?

Be sure to whip your cream until stiff peaks form and gently fold it into the cream cheese mixture with as few strokes as possible. Adding the powdered sugar also helps stabilize the whipped cream and keeps the topping fluffy.

Is there a way to make this a gluten-free dessert?

Definitely! Simply use your favorite gluten-free white cake mix and check that all other ingredients (like the whipped topping) are certified gluten-free. The results are just as delightful — and everyone can enjoy a slice of Strawberry Cloud Cake.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a dessert that celebrates strawberries at their freshest and transforms a simple cake into something dreamy, you must try making Strawberry Cloud Cake. Every bite is its own little celebration and sharing it with friends and family makes it even sweeter. Give it a whirl and watch this cloud-like creation become a new favorite at your table.

Strawberry Cloud Cake Recipe

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4.7 from 27 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 1 hour (plus chilling time)
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the light, airy deliciousness of this Strawberry Cloud Cake. Layers of white cake, fresh strawberries, and a fluffy whipped topping create a heavenly dessert perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Cake:

1 box white cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box, usually eggs, oil, and water)

For the Strawberry Layer:

1 pint fresh strawberries (hulled and sliced)
2 tablespoons sugar
1 teaspoon lemon juice

For the Whipped Topping:

1 cup heavy whipping cream
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 package (8 oz) cream cheese (softened)
1 container (8 oz) whipped topping (such as Cool Whip)
Extra strawberries for garnish

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Instructions

Prepare the Cake: Bake the white cake according to package instructions in a 9×13-inch pan. Let it cool.
Prepare the Strawberries: Combine sliced strawberries with sugar and lemon juice, let them macerate.
Whip the Cream: Beat the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until stiff peaks form.
Prepare the Topping: Beat cream cheese until smooth, fold in whipped topping, then fold in whipped cream.
Assemble: Spread half of macerated strawberries on cake, top with whipped topping mixture, add remaining strawberries, and chill.
Serve: Garnish with extra strawberries before serving.