Strawberry Chocolate Cake Recipe

If you’re on the lookout for a dessert that combines the best of two worlds, then this Strawberry Chocolate Cake Recipe is your new best friend. Imagine layers of rich, moist chocolate cake paired beautifully with a luscious strawberry filling and smooth chocolate frosting — it’s a match made in dessert heaven. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving something extraordinary, this recipe offers a wonderful balance of sweet, fruity, and chocolaty flavors that will delight everyone at your table. Let me walk you through this irresistible treat that’s sure to become a go-to favorite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is key, but don’t worry — this Strawberry Chocolate Cake Recipe keeps things straightforward. Each component plays a crucial role, whether it’s creating the tender crumb of the cake, adding depth with cocoa, or bringing that fresh strawberry brightness that ties everything together.

• All-purpose flour: Provides the structure needed for a fluffy and stable cake.
• Unsweetened cocoa powder: Delivers deep chocolate flavor and beautiful color.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens and helps create a tender crumb.
• Baking powder and baking soda: Ensure the cake rises perfectly.
• Salt: Enhances and balances all the sweet and rich flavors.
• Large eggs: Bind ingredients together and add moisture.
• Whole milk: Keeps the cake moist and tender.
• Vegetable oil: Adds richness and helps maintain softness.
• Vanilla extract: Boosts the overall flavor with a warm note.
• Boiling water or hot coffee: Intensifies the chocolate taste and creates a perfect batter consistency.
• Fresh strawberries: The star of the filling, providing juicy sweetness and a natural tang.
• Cornstarch and lemon juice: Thicken and brighten the strawberry filling.
• Unsalted butter: Essential for creamy and rich frosting.
• Powdered sugar: Sweetens and gives the frosting a smooth finish.
• Heavy cream or milk: Adjusts frosting texture for fluffiness.
• Chocolate shavings, fresh strawberry halves, and chocolate ganache: Perfect for that stunning final decoration.

How to Make Strawberry Chocolate Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pans

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 8-inch round cake pans and line them with parchment paper. This little prep step will ensure your cakes come out beautifully without sticking.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This mix of dry ingredients creates the foundation for your cake’s rich flavor and soft texture.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Next, crack in the eggs, pour in the milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Stir everything until it’s well combined. This mixture starts to bring the cake together with moisture and flavor.

Step 4: Incorporate Boiling Liquid

Slowly add the boiling water or hot coffee, stirring continuously until the batter is silky smooth. Don’t be surprised if it looks thin — that’s exactly right and results in a tender cake once baked.

Step 5: Bake the Cake Layers

Divide the batter evenly between your prepared pans and pop them into the oven for 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when a toothpick comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 6: Make the Strawberry Filling

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the chopped strawberries, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Stir frequently for 5 to 7 minutes until thickened to a luscious jam-like consistency. Allow it to cool completely before assembling your cake.

Step 7: Prepare the Chocolate Frosting

Beat the softened butter until smooth, then gradually add powdered sugar and cocoa powder, mixing on low speed to avoid a sugar cloud. Add the vanilla extract, salt, and heavy cream, then whip on high until light and fluffy — this frosting is what gives your cake that irresistible finish.

Step 8: Assemble Your Cake

Place one cake layer on your serving plate or cake stand. Spread a generous layer of chocolate frosting, followed by the cooled strawberry filling. Top with the second cake layer, then coat the entire cake with the remaining frosting. Smooth it out with an offset spatula for a polished look.

Step 9: Add Final Touches

Garnish with fresh halved strawberries, chocolate shavings, and a drizzle of chocolate ganache to elevate the visual appeal and take the flavor over the top. Now your Strawberry Chocolate Cake Recipe is a masterpiece ready to impress!

How to Serve Strawberry Chocolate Cake Recipe

Garnishes

A few fresh strawberry halves and delicate chocolate curls do more than decorate — they add texture and bursts of freshness that complement the rich cake. A drizzle of ganache adds a glossy, decadent touch that makes every bite feel special.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. For a lighter touch, a side of fresh berries or a simple mint sprig can refresh the palate and balance the richness.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving individual cake slices with extra strawberry filling spooned over the plate or layer the cake with edible flowers for a springtime vibe. You can also turn this recipe into cupcakes or make mini versions for charming bite-sized treats perfect for parties.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap your leftover cake tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and moist for up to 3 days, though the flavor is best enjoyed sooner.

Freezing

You can freeze fully assembled cake or individual layers separately. Wrap them securely in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. The cake will keep its deliciousness for up to 2 months when frozen properly.

Reheating

To enjoy the cake after refrigeration or freezing, let it come to room temperature for the best flavor and texture. Avoid microwaving as it can alter the frosting; instead, leave it out for about 30 minutes before serving.

FAQs

Can I substitute coffee for boiling water?

Absolutely! Using hot coffee instead of boiling water enhances the chocolate flavor, adding richness without overpowering the strawberry notes. It’s a simple swap that elevates your cake beautifully.

How do I keep the strawberry filling from making the cake soggy?

Cooking the strawberries with sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice thickens the filling and reduces excess moisture. Spread the cooled filling evenly and not too thickly to avoid sogginess while still enjoying that fruity burst.

Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking mix, but ensure the blend contains xanthan gum for structure. Baking times might vary slightly, so keep an eye on your cake as it bakes.

Can I use frozen strawberries for the filling?

Frozen strawberries work fine, but thaw and drain them well to avoid extra liquid in the filling. Cooking them down with cornstarch will help thicken the mixture and preserve that lovely strawberry taste.

What’s the best way to get smooth frosting?

Softened butter at room temperature combined with gradual addition of powdered sugar ensures a silky texture. Mixing on low speed initially to avoid air bubbles, then whipping on high until fluffy, creates that perfect frosting consistency.

Final Thoughts

Sharing this Strawberry Chocolate Cake Recipe with you feels like inviting you into my kitchen to taste something truly special. The harmony of chocolate and strawberries in this cake is beyond delightful, perfect for celebrations or just to brighten any day. I can’t wait for you to try it and enjoy every sweet, rich bite as much as I do.

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