Strawberry Chocolate Cake
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Indulge in the rich and delightful combination of strawberries and chocolate with this scrumptious Strawberry Chocolate Cake.
This Strawberry Chocolate Cake is a delightful fusion of rich chocolate and fresh strawberries, perfect for any celebration or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh strawberry sweetness
- Moist and fluffy texture that leaves you wanting more
- Perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or just a weekend treat
A Perfect Dessert for Any Occasion
Strawberry Chocolate Cake is not only a delicious treat but also a stunning centerpiece for any gathering. Whether you're celebrating a birthday, an anniversary, or simply enjoying a weekend dinner with family, this cake is sure to impress. The vibrant colors of fresh strawberries against the rich chocolate ganache make it visually enticing, while the combination of flavors satisfies even the most discerning palates.
This cake is versatile enough to be enjoyed year-round. In the spring and summer, when strawberries are at their peak, you can indulge in the freshest version of this dessert. During the colder months, the comforting chocolate flavor can warm your heart and remind you of sunny days.
Elevate Your Baking Skills
Baking this Strawberry Chocolate Cake will not only delight your taste buds but also enhance your baking skills. The process of creating a layered cake helps you learn techniques for making moist cakes, preparing fillings, and achieving the perfect frosting consistency. Each step in the recipe is designed to guide you through the baking process, making it accessible even for novice bakers.
As you progress through the recipe, you'll develop an understanding of how different ingredients work together. From the science behind baking powder and baking soda to the delicate balance of flavors in the filling, this recipe is a great way to gain confidence in your culinary abilities.
Storing and Serving Tips
To keep your Strawberry Chocolate Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to preserve it for longer, consider refrigerating it, but be aware that chilling may slightly alter the texture of the frosting. For the best experience, allow the cake to come to room temperature before serving.
When it comes to serving, this cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. You can also garnish it with additional fresh strawberries or a sprinkle of cocoa powder for an extra touch of elegance. This cake is sure to delight your guests and leave them wanting more.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients before you start baking:
For the Cake
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water
For the Strawberry Filling
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
For the Frosting
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1/3 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Make sure you have everything ready to go before you start mixing!
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your delicious Strawberry Chocolate Cake:
Prepare the Cake Batter
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract, and mix until well combined. Gradually add the boiling water, mixing until the batter is smooth.
Bake the Cake
Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. Divide the batter evenly between the pans. Bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then remove them from the pans and let cool completely on a wire rack.
Prepare the Strawberry Filling
In a medium bowl, combine sliced strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Allow the mixture to sit for about 10 minutes to create a syrup.
Make the Frosting
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the cocoa powder and powdered sugar, alternating with the milk, until you reach your desired consistency. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Assemble the Cake
Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread the strawberry filling over the top, then place the second layer on top. Frost the top and sides of the cake with the chocolate frosting. Decorate with additional strawberries if desired.
Enjoy your delicious Strawberry Chocolate Cake!
Nutritional Information
While indulging in a slice of Strawberry Chocolate Cake, it's helpful to be aware of its nutritional content. Each serving contains a balance of carbohydrates from the cake and natural sugars from the strawberries, providing a delightful energy boost. However, it's important to enjoy this treat in moderation, especially if you're keeping an eye on your sugar intake.
For those looking to lighten the cake, consider using alternative sweeteners or reducing the amount of sugar in the filling. You can also experiment with gluten-free flour options to cater to dietary preferences without sacrificing flavor.
Variations and Customizations
This Strawberry Chocolate Cake recipe serves as a fantastic base for various creative variations. You can try incorporating different fruits, such as raspberries or blackberries, to give a unique twist to the filling. Additionally, consider adding a layer of chocolate ganache or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra decadent touch.
If you want to make the cake even more special, think about adding a hint of liqueur, such as Chambord or Amaretto, to the frosting or filling. These additions can elevate the flavor profile and create a more adult-oriented dessert that's perfect for dinner parties.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but make sure to thaw and drain them before use.
→ How should I store the cake?
Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ 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.
→ What can I substitute for eggs?
You can use 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) as an egg substitute.
Strawberry Chocolate Cake
Indulge in the rich and delightful combination of strawberries and chocolate with this scrumptious Strawberry Chocolate Cake.
Created by: Perrie Lawson
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 8 servings
What You'll Need
For the Cake
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water
For the Strawberry Filling
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
For the Frosting
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1/3 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract, and mix until well combined. Gradually add the boiling water, mixing until the batter is smooth.
Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. Divide the batter evenly between the pans. Bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then remove them from the pans and let cool completely on a wire rack.
In a medium bowl, combine sliced strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Allow the mixture to sit for about 10 minutes to create a syrup.
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the cocoa powder and powdered sugar, alternating with the milk, until you reach your desired consistency. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread the strawberry filling over the top, then place the second layer on top. Frost the top and sides of the cake with the chocolate frosting. Decorate with additional strawberries if desired.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g