Strawberry Chocolate Cake
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Indulge in the delightful combination of rich chocolate and fresh strawberries with this decadent Strawberry Chocolate Cake. Perfect for special occasions or a sweet treat any day!
This Strawberry Chocolate Cake is the perfect dessert for anyone who loves the combination of chocolate and fresh fruit. The rich chocolate cake pairs beautifully with the sweet and tart strawberries, creating a dessert that is sure to impress your guests.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh strawberries
- Moist and fluffy cake texture that melts in your mouth
- Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence
The Perfect Balance of Flavors
This Strawberry Chocolate Cake is a testament to the magic that happens when you combine chocolate and strawberries. The rich, dark chocolate cake serves as a perfect backdrop for the freshness of juicy strawberries. Each bite offers a harmonious balance of flavors that appeals to both chocolate lovers and fruit enthusiasts alike. The sweetness of the strawberries enhances the deep cocoa notes, creating a dessert experience that is truly extraordinary.
Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a sweet treat, this cake is sure to impress. The combination of moist chocolate cake and fresh strawberry slices makes it a visually stunning centerpiece for any gathering. Prepare to be asked for seconds, as this delightful dessert will leave everyone craving more!
A Cake for Every Occasion
One of the best aspects of this Strawberry Chocolate Cake is its versatility. It is perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or any celebration that calls for a delicious dessert. The vibrant colors of the strawberries against the dark chocolate frosting make it a standout choice for festive gatherings or as a showstopper at potlucks.
Additionally, this cake can be easily adapted to suit your needs. Consider making it in a different size or shape, or even turning it into cupcakes for a fun twist. No matter how you serve it, this cake will undoubtedly become a favorite among friends and family.
Tips for Baking Success
To ensure your Strawberry Chocolate Cake turns out perfectly, be sure to measure your ingredients accurately. Baking is a science, and even minor variations in ingredient amounts can affect the final product. Use a kitchen scale for precision, especially with flour and sugar, for the best results.
Another helpful tip is to let your cakes cool completely before frosting. This will help prevent the frosting from melting and sliding off the cake. If you want to get creative, try adding layers of strawberry jam or fresh cream between the cake layers for an extra burst of flavor!
Ingredients
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 Frosting
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Decoration
- Fresh strawberries, sliced
- Chocolate shavings or curls
Make sure to use fresh strawberries for the best flavor!
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 the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt together.
Add the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Beat on medium speed for about 2 minutes. Stir in the boiling water until well combined.
Bake the Cake
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans. Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Make the Frosting
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and cocoa powder, mixing until well combined. Add the heavy cream and vanilla extract, beating until the frosting is smooth and fluffy.
Assemble the Cake
Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of frosting on top, then add sliced strawberries. Place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake.
Let the cake sit for about 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Storage and Serving Suggestions
After making this Strawberry Chocolate Cake, you may find yourself with leftovers. To store the cake, place it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it fresh for longer, consider refrigerating it, although this may slightly alter the texture of the cake.
When serving, consider pairing the cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent treat. A sprinkle of fresh mint leaves can also elevate the presentation and add a refreshing touch to each slice.
Variations to Try
While the classic Strawberry Chocolate Cake is a delightful choice, there are numerous variations you can try to suit your taste preferences. For a richer chocolate flavor, consider adding chocolate chips or chunks to the batter before baking. This will add an extra layer of decadence to your cake.
If you're a fan of different fruits, feel free to experiment with other berries, such as raspberries or blueberries, which can provide a unique twist on the original recipe. You can also swap out the frosting for a cream cheese frosting for a tangy contrast to the sweetness.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, but fresh strawberries will provide the best flavor and texture.
→ How do I store leftover cake?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I make this cake in advance?
Absolutely! You can bake the cake layers a day ahead and frost them the day you plan to serve.
→ What can I substitute for eggs?
You can use flax eggs or applesauce as a substitute for eggs if needed.
Strawberry Chocolate Cake
Indulge in the delightful combination of rich chocolate and fresh strawberries with this decadent Strawberry Chocolate Cake. Perfect for special occasions or a sweet treat any day!
Created by: Brianna Tate
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 Frosting
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Decoration
- Fresh strawberries, sliced
- Chocolate shavings or curls
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 the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt together.
Add the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Beat on medium speed for about 2 minutes. Stir in the boiling water until well combined.
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans. Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and cocoa powder, mixing until well combined. Add the heavy cream and vanilla extract, beating until the frosting is smooth and fluffy.
Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of frosting on top, then add sliced strawberries. Place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake. Decorate with additional strawberries and chocolate shavings.
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