Decadent Chocolate Strawberry Cake Recipe

There’s nothing quite as delightful as a chocolate strawberry cake—a rich, moist chocolate cake layered with fresh strawberries and luscious frosting. This cake is perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or any time you crave a delicious dessert. The combination of deep chocolate flavor with the natural sweetness of strawberries creates a match made in dessert heaven. In this guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know to make the best chocolate strawberry cake from scratch!

Recipe Preparation Equipment

Before starting, gather the following kitchen tools:

• Mixing bowls (large and medium)
• Electric mixer or whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Sifter
• Spatula
• 8-inch cake pans (2 or 3 layers)
• Parchment paper
• Cooling rack
• Offset spatula for frosting
• Knife for slicing strawberries

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
• ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 cup whole milk
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup boiling water

For the Strawberry Filling:

• 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp lemon juice

For the Chocolate Ganache Frosting:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 8 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Garnish:

• Whole strawberries for decoration
• Chocolate shavings (optional)

How to Make Easy Chocolate Strawberry Cake?

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 8-inch cake pans. Line the bottoms with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, sift together flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Add milk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract, then mix until well combined.
4. Gradually pour in boiling water while stirring until the batter is smooth.

Step 2: Bake the Cake

1. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
2. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
3. Remove from oven and allow cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.

Step 3: Prepare the Strawberry Filling

1. In a bowl, mix sliced strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice.
2. Let the mixture sit for 15 minutes to allow the strawberries to release their juices.

Step 4: Make the Chocolate Ganache Frosting

1. Heat heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat until it just starts to simmer.
2. Pour the hot cream over chopped chocolate in a bowl and let it sit for 5 minutes.
3. Stir until smooth, then add butter and vanilla extract. Let the ganache cool slightly before using.

Step 5: Assemble the Cake

1. Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a layer of strawberry filling.
2. Add a layer of ganache frosting over the strawberries.
3. Place the second cake layer on top and spread the remaining ganache over the top and sides.
4. Decorate with whole strawberries and chocolate shavings.

Variations

• Chocolate Strawberry Mousse Cake: Add a layer of chocolate mousse between the cake layers.
• Strawberry Cream Frosting: Swap the chocolate ganache for a whipped strawberry cream frosting.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.
• Vegan Version: Replace eggs with flax eggs and use dairy-free chocolate.

Cooking Note

• Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor.
• Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
• Pair with a cup of hot coffee or tea.
• Drizzle with additional melted chocolate for an extra indulgent touch.

Helpful Tips

• Use Room-Temperature Ingredients: This ensures even mixing and a smooth batter.
• Do Not Overmix: Overmixing can make the cake dense instead of fluffy.
• Chill the Ganache: If the ganache is too runny, refrigerate it for 10 minutes before spreading.
• Level the Cake Layers: Use a serrated knife to trim the tops of the cake for an even stack.

Tips for the Best Chocolate Strawberry Cake

• Choose high-quality cocoa powder for a rich chocolate flavor.
• Let the cake sit overnight for deeper flavors.
• Use a cake turntable for smooth frosting application.
• Gently press the strawberries dry before adding them to the filling to avoid excess moisture.

Similar recipes you may also like :

• The Ultimate Strawberry Shortcake Cake Recipe
• Decorate a Tempting Chocolate Birthday Cake in Minutes
• Delicious Chocolate Birthday Cake Ideas
• No-Bake Biscoff Cheesecake Recipe

FAQs

1. Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes! You can bake the cake layers a day in advance and store them wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature.

2. Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, but thaw and drain them well to prevent excess moisture.

3. How do I store leftover cake?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

4. Can I freeze this cake?

Yes! Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months.

5. What type of chocolate is best for ganache?

Use semi-sweet or dark chocolate for a rich and smooth frosting.

Conclusion

This Chocolate Strawberry Cake is the perfect blend of rich chocolate and fresh fruit flavors. Whether you’re making it for a celebration or just because, this cake is sure to impress. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can bake a homemade masterpiece. Try this recipe today and enjoy every delicious bite!