Strawberry Chocolate Cake

Name: Strawberry Chocolate Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour; 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar; ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder; 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 large eggs; 1 cup whole milk; ½ cup vegetable oil; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 cup boiling water; 1 cup heavy cream; 8 oz semisweet chocolate, chopped; 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced; Whipped cream (optional)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Indulge in the rich and delightful combination of chocolate and strawberries with this luscious cake recipe.

Created by

Chloe Baker

Last updated on 2025-12-21T09:16:01.724Z

This Strawberry Chocolate Cake is not only visually stunning but also incredibly delicious. The layers of chocolate cake are perfectly complemented by fresh strawberries and a rich chocolate ganache. Ideal for special occasions or a delightful treat any day!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh strawberries
Moist cake that melts in your mouth
Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence

      

The Perfect Dessert for Any Occasion

This Strawberry Chocolate Cake is not just a treat; it’s a celebration on a plate. Whether you're marking a birthday, an anniversary, or simply want to indulge in some sweet delights, this cake fits the bill perfectly. Its rich chocolate flavor, complemented by the freshness of strawberries, makes it a go-to dessert for gatherings and special occasions alike.

The beauty of this cake lies in its versatility. You can easily customize the decorations or even the flavors based on your preferences. Want to add a hint of mint or a splash of orange zest? Go ahead! This recipe serves as a fantastic base, allowing your creativity to shine through.

Baking Tips for Success

To ensure your cake turns out perfectly moist and fluffy, it’s crucial to measure your ingredients accurately. Use a kitchen scale for the best results, especially when it comes to flour and sugar. Additionally, be mindful of oven temperature; an oven thermometer can help you avoid common pitfalls that lead to uneven baking.

Another tip is to let your cake layers cool completely before assembling. This prevents the ganache from melting too quickly and allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Patience pays off in baking, and taking the time to cool your layers can make all the difference in achieving a professional-looking cake.

Serving Suggestions

Once your Strawberry Chocolate Cake is beautifully assembled, consider how to present it. A simple dusting of powdered sugar adds an elegant touch, while a dollop of whipped cream can elevate the dessert to a whole new level. For a rustic feel, serve it on a wooden platter with fresh strawberries scattered around.

Pair your cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a cup of coffee for a delightful contrast of flavors and temperatures. This cake is sure to impress your guests, making it a memorable part of any meal or gathering.

Ingredients

For the Cake

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

For the Ganache

1 cup heavy cream
8 oz semisweet chocolate, chopped

For the Topping

2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
Whipped cream (optional)

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Add Wet Ingredients

Add the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla to the dry ingredients. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes. Stir in boiling water (batter will be thin).

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared pans. Bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Prepare the Ganache

In a saucepan, heat the cream until just boiling. Pour over the chopped chocolate in a bowl. Let it sit for 5 minutes, then stir until smooth.

Cool and Assemble

Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then remove from pans and cool completely on wire racks. Once cooled, spread ganache between layers and on top. Garnish with sliced strawberries.

For best flavor, let the cake sit for a few hours before serving.

Storing Your Cake

If you have leftover cake (which is rare, but can happen!), store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, consider refrigerating it, but be mindful that the texture may change slightly due to the cold. Always bring the cake back to room temperature before serving for the best taste experience.

You can also freeze the unassembled cake layers for up to three months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw the layers in the refrigerator overnight and proceed with the ganache and strawberry topping.

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with different fruits! While strawberries are a classic pairing with chocolate, raspberries, cherries, or even blueberries can add a unique twist to your cake. Each fruit brings its own flavor profile, allowing you to switch things up depending on the season or your mood.

If you're looking to make this cake a bit lighter, consider using a reduced-fat version of the ganache or a lighter whipped topping. Alternatively, you can swap out some of the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour for a healthier option without sacrificing too much on taste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, but fresh strawberries will give the best flavor and texture.

→ How should I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the cake layers and prepare the ganache a day in advance.

→ What can I substitute for eggs?

You can use unsweetened applesauce or a flax egg as an egg substitute.