A luscious combination of rich, moist chocolate cake layers and a fresh strawberry filling, this Strawberry Chocolate Cake is the ultimate dessert for chocolate and fruit lovers alike. The decadent chocolate frosting ties it all together, creating a delightful balance of flavors.
Perfect for celebrations or just a weekend treat, this cake is as beautiful as it is delicious. The contrast of dark chocolate and vibrant strawberries makes it an eye-catching centerpiece, and the flavors will have everyone reaching for another slice. Whether you’re a baking enthusiast or a dessert lover, this recipe is a must-try!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 ½ cups fresh strawberries, sliced
Chocolate Frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 ½ cups powdered sugar
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup heavy cream
Strawberry Filling:
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, chopped
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch cake pans with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
- Gradually add boiling water, stirring continuously until smooth.
- Divide batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Strawberry Filling:
- In a small bowl, mix chopped strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Let sit for 10 minutes.
Chocolate Frosting:
- In a mixing bowl, beat butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and cocoa powder.
- Add salt, vanilla extract, and heavy cream. Beat until smooth and fluffy.
Assembly:
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of chocolate frosting, followed by a layer of strawberry filling.
- Place the second cake layer on top and frost the entire cake.
- Garnish with sliced strawberries. Chill for 30 minutes before serving.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 35 minutes | Total Time: 55 minutes
Kcal: 480 kcal | Servings: 12 servings
Few dessert combinations are as timeless and beloved as chocolate and strawberries. The rich, velvety decadence of chocolate pairs beautifully with the bright, juicy sweetness of strawberries, making this Strawberry Chocolate Cake an irresistible treat. This cake isn’t just about flavor; it’s an experience—each bite brings together the softness of the cake, the lusciousness of the chocolate frosting, and the burst of fresh strawberries. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a weekend treat, this cake is sure to impress.
The History of Chocolate and Strawberry Pairing
Chocolate and strawberries have long been considered a match made in heaven, with their combination dating back centuries. Chocolate, derived from cacao beans, was once reserved for royalty and the elite. Over time, as it became more widely available, it was often paired with fruits to balance its richness. Strawberries, with their bright and slightly tart profile, provided the perfect contrast. Today, this combination is found in everything from gourmet truffles to milkshakes, proving that the appeal of chocolate and strawberries remains as strong as ever.
The Art of Layering Flavors
One of the remarkable things about this Strawberry Chocolate Cake is its perfect balance of contrasting flavors and textures. The cake layers are rich and moist, thanks to the generous addition of cocoa powder and a splash of boiling water, which deepens the chocolate flavor and ensures a tender crumb. In contrast, the strawberries offer a fresh, slightly tangy counterpoint that cuts through the richness of the chocolate, preventing the cake from feeling too heavy. This interplay of flavors ensures that every bite is as satisfying as the last.
Why Fresh Strawberries Make a Difference
Fresh strawberries are the stars of this cake, adding both flavor and visual appeal. Their natural sweetness and slight tartness complement the chocolate wonderfully, while their vibrant red hue provides a striking contrast against the deep brown of the cake and frosting. In this recipe, the strawberries are used in two forms: sliced, to add texture and freshness, and chopped with a touch of sugar and lemon juice, creating a simple yet flavorful filling that infuses each bite with a burst of fruity goodness.
The Secret to a Perfectly Moist Chocolate Cake
Achieving the perfect texture for a chocolate cake can be tricky, but a few key techniques make all the difference. Using oil instead of butter helps maintain moisture, preventing the cake from drying out. Adding boiling water or hot coffee enhances the cocoa powder’s deep flavor, giving the cake a richer, more intense chocolate taste. Additionally, baking at the right temperature and ensuring the cake layers cool completely before frosting prevents dryness and ensures a perfectly moist texture.
Decadent Chocolate Frosting
The chocolate frosting enveloping this cake is a thing of beauty—creamy, smooth, and deeply chocolatey. Made with a base of softened butter and a generous amount of cocoa powder, it has just the right amount of sweetness, balanced by a pinch of salt and a splash of vanilla extract. The addition of heavy cream gives it a luxurious texture that spreads easily and holds its shape, perfect for creating swoops and swirls on the cake’s surface. It’s the ultimate pairing with the strawberries, enhancing their flavor without overwhelming it.
A Cake for All Occasions
This cake is versatile enough to suit any occasion. It’s sophisticated enough for a dinner party or celebration, where its layers and flavors can be showcased with pride. Yet, it’s also approachable enough for a casual weekend bake, something to share with family and friends over coffee or tea. The combination of familiar ingredients and straightforward techniques makes it a cake that even novice bakers can tackle with confidence. Plus, the opportunity to personalize it—perhaps with a drizzle of chocolate ganache or a dusting of powdered sugar—means it can be tailored to suit any taste or style.
Tips for Success
- Choose the Best Ingredients: Quality ingredients make a noticeable difference in baking. Use fresh strawberries that are ripe and fragrant. For the chocolate, a high-quality cocoa powder will enhance the depth of flavor in both the cake and the frosting.
- Temperature Matters: Bringing ingredients like butter and eggs to room temperature before mixing helps create a smoother batter and frosting. It allows for better incorporation and a finer cake crumb.
- Don’t Skip the Parchment: Lining the cake pans with parchment paper ensures that the layers release cleanly after baking. This little step saves a lot of potential frustration!
- Cooling is Key: Allowing the cake layers to cool completely before frosting is crucial. If they’re even slightly warm, the frosting can melt and slide, resulting in a less polished finish.
- Storage Tips: This cake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. If making in advance, wrap the cake layers tightly in plastic wrap before assembling to preserve their moisture.
Variations to Try
If you want to get creative, there are plenty of ways to modify this recipe to suit your preferences. You can substitute the strawberries with raspberries for a tangier twist, or add a layer of whipped cream between the chocolate frosting for extra fluffiness. If you’re a fan of crunch, consider sprinkling crushed nuts or chocolate shavings over the frosting for added texture. A splash of liqueur like Grand Marnier or Baileys in the frosting can also elevate the overall flavor profile.
Conclusion
Baking this Strawberry Chocolate Cake is more than just making a dessert—it’s about creating a moment of joy and indulgence. The combination of rich chocolate and fresh strawberries offers a sensory experience that’s both comforting and luxurious. Each slice invites you to savor the interplay of flavors and textures, celebrating the magic that happens when simple ingredients come together in perfect harmony. Whether you’re making this cake for a loved one’s birthday, a special dinner, or simply to enjoy a quiet moment of sweetness, it’s a recipe that’s bound to bring smiles and create memories. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and treat yourself to the delightful process of baking this exquisite cake!