Strawberry Chocolate Cake
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Create a delightful dessert that combines rich chocolate and fresh strawberries with this Strawberry Chocolate Cake recipe. This decadent cake features moist chocolate layers topped with luscious strawberry frosting and garnished with juicy berries for an irresistible finish. Perfect for celebrations or a sweet treat any day, this cake is sure to impress everyone at your table.
This Strawberry Chocolate Cake is a perfect fusion of chocolate and fresh strawberries, designed to create memorable moments at any gathering. The richness of dark chocolate layers pairs beautifully with the lightness of strawberry frosting.
A Perfect Dessert for All Occasions
This Strawberry Chocolate Cake is not just a treat; it's an experience. The rich chocolate layers provide a deep, indulgent flavor that pairs beautifully with the freshness of strawberries. Whether it’s a birthday party, an anniversary celebration, or just a cozy dinner at home, this cake will elevate the occasion. Its stunning appearance, combined with the delightful taste, makes it a favorite among guests of all ages.
Imagine serving this cake at your next gathering. As you cut into the layers, guests will be captivated by the contrast of the dark chocolate and vibrant strawberry frosting. The garnished fresh strawberries and chocolate shavings add a touch of elegance that is sure to impress. Each slice is a blend of flavors that keep everyone coming back for more.
Baking Tips for Success
When preparing this cake, precision is key. Be sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best texture and flavor. Use fresh strawberries for the frosting to ensure a burst of natural sweetness and color. If you're in a warmer climate, consider chilling your frosting for a few minutes before applying it to the cake to make it easier to work with.
Don’t rush the cooling process! Allow the cakes to cool completely before frosting. This will help the layers hold their shape and prevent the frosting from melting. If you want to make your cake in advance, it can also be baked a day ahead; just keep it wrapped tightly in plastic wrap to maintain freshness.
Customizing Your Cake
While the Strawberry Chocolate Cake is perfect as is, don't be afraid to get creative! Consider adding a layer of chocolate ganache for extra richness, or infuse the strawberry frosting with a splash of lemon juice for a zesty twist. You can also substitute the strawberries with other fruits like raspberries or cherries, tailoring the flavor profile to match your personal preferences.
Additionally, experimenting with different chocolate types can lead to delightful variations. Dark chocolate offers a more intense flavor, while milk chocolate gives a creamier, sweeter taste. This cake is highly versatile, making it a delightful centerpiece for any dessert table, no matter the season.
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water
For the Frosting
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, pureed
For Garnish
- Fresh strawberries, sliced
- Chocolate shavings
Instructions
Prepare the Cake Batter
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. In a large bowl, mix together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla, and mix until well combined. Stir in boiling water until smooth.
Bake the Cakes
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Make the Frosting
In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, then pour in heavy cream and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth. Fold in the strawberry puree until well combined.
Assemble the Cake
Once cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of frosting on top, then place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake.
Garnish and Serve
Decorate the top with fresh strawberry slices and chocolate shavings. Slice and serve your delicious Strawberry Chocolate Cake!
Storage Tips
To keep your Strawberry Chocolate Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. If you prefer a longer shelf life, you can refrigerate it, but remember that refrigeration can affect the texture of the frosting. If you have leftovers, consider freezing individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to a month. This way, you can enjoy a slice of this delicious cake whenever the craving strikes.
If you freeze the cake, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving. This allows it to regain its moisture and flavor. A quick reapplication of fresh strawberries or a drizzle of chocolate sauce can revive its presentation. Perfect for unexpected visitors or a midnight snack, this cake is sure to remain a favorite.
Pairing Suggestions
Enhancing your dessert experience goes beyond just the cake. Consider pairing the Strawberry Chocolate Cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for added creaminess and flavor. The vanilla will perfectly complement the rich chocolate and fresh strawberries, creating a delightful blend of textures and tastes. Adding a drizzle of chocolate sauce can elevate the dessert to another level of decadence.
For beverage pairings, serve the cake with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a glass of cold milk. The warmth of coffee enhances the chocolate while the milk adds a comforting touch that’s loved by both kids and adults. For a more festive occasion, try pairing it with a sweet dessert wine or sparkling water to add a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen strawberries for the frosting?
Yes, just ensure they are completely thawed and drained before pureeing.
→ How should I store the cake?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Strawberry Chocolate Cake
Create a delightful dessert that combines rich chocolate and fresh strawberries with this Strawberry Chocolate Cake recipe. This decadent cake features moist chocolate layers topped with luscious strawberry frosting and garnished with juicy berries for an irresistible finish. Perfect for celebrations or a sweet treat any day, this cake is sure to impress everyone at your table.
Created by: Jasmine Porter
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 12 servings
What You'll Need
For the Cake
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water
For the Frosting
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, pureed
For Garnish
- Fresh strawberries, sliced
- Chocolate shavings
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. In a large bowl, mix together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla, and mix until well combined. Stir in boiling water until smooth.
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, then pour in heavy cream and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth. Fold in the strawberry puree until well combined.
Once cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of frosting on top, then place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake.
Decorate the top with fresh strawberry slices and chocolate shavings. Slice and serve your delicious Strawberry Chocolate Cake!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Sugar: 22g