Strawberry Chocolate Cake
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Experience the perfect blend of rich chocolate and fresh strawberries in this decadent Strawberry Chocolate Cake. Layered with luscious chocolate ganache and topped with juicy strawberry slices, this cake is ideal for celebrations or simply satisfying your dessert cravings. Each bite delivers a delightfully moist texture, making it a crowd favorite for any occasion.
This cake has become a staple for our family gatherings, and it never fails to impress.
The Perfect Dessert for Any Occasion
Whether you're celebrating a birthday, hosting a dinner party, or simply craving something sweet, the Strawberry Chocolate Cake is an exceptional choice. This cake balances the rich flavor of chocolate with the refreshing taste of strawberries, making it a delightful centerpiece for any gathering. Its elegant appearance and luscious taste will impress your guests and leave them wanting more.
The combination of moist chocolate cake layers and velvety ganache creates a dessert that satisfies both chocolate lovers and fruit enthusiasts. It's a versatile cake that can be enjoyed year-round, perfect for summer celebrations or cozy winter evenings. Each slice promises a burst of flavor that elevates any occasion, ensuring this dessert is cherished by all.
A Simple Yet Stunning Creation
While this cake may appear extravagant, it’s surprisingly simple to prepare, even for novice bakers. The straightforward steps allow you to create an impressive dessert without overwhelming complexity. With basic ingredients and just a few techniques, you can bring this delectable dish to life and dazzle your friends and family.
By layering the rich chocolate ganache and fresh strawberries, you not only enhance the cake's flavor but also its visual appeal. The vibrant red of the strawberries against the dark chocolate creates an eye-catching contrast, making it the star of any dessert table. This cake proves that, with just a little effort, you can create something truly special.
Tips for Perfecting Your Strawberry Chocolate Cake
To ensure that your cake turns out perfectly moist, remember not to overmix the batter after adding the boiling water. The thin consistency might seem daunting, but it contributes to the cake's wonderfully tender crumb. Additionally, using room temperature eggs and milk can help in achieving a better blend, resulting in a smoother batter.
For an added touch of flavor, consider infusing the ganache with a hint of espresso or using different types of chocolate. Dark chocolate can intensify the richness, while white chocolate can add a sweet contrast. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different toppings, such as crushed nuts or chocolate shavings, to customize the look and taste of your cake.
Ingredients
Gather all your ingredients before starting the recipe.
Cake Ingredients
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ¾ cup 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
Ganache Ingredients
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Topping Ingredients
- Fresh strawberries, sliced
Make sure to measure everything accurately for the best results.
Instructions
Follow these steps carefully to create the perfect cake.
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, combine the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Bake the Cake
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
Make the Ganache
In a small saucepan over medium heat, bring the heavy cream to a simmer. Remove from the heat and add the chopped chocolate. Let it sit for a few minutes before stirring until smooth.
Assemble the Cake
Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of ganache over the top, and then place the second layer on top. Cover the entire cake with the remaining ganache, smoothing it out with a spatula.
Enjoy your delicious creation with family and friends!
Storage and Serving Suggestions
This Strawberry Chocolate Cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you need to keep it longer, consider refrigerating it for up to a week. Just be aware that chilling may slightly alter the texture of the ganache, making it a bit firmer. Always let the cake come to room temperature before serving to enhance its flavor and moisture.
For a delightful experience, serve the cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creaminess complements the rich chocolate and tangy strawberries beautifully. You can also drizzle extra ganache over the cake slices before serving for an indulgent touch.
Pairing Your Cake
This cake pairs wonderfully with a variety of beverages, enhancing the overall dessert experience. A rich, bold coffee or an espresso will complement the chocolate and offer a perfect balance. Alternatively, you might enjoy it with a glass of red wine, such as a Merlot, which can highlight the cake’s fruity notes beautifully.
For a non-alcoholic option, a refreshing strawberry lemonade can elevate the flavors of the cake, bringing a bright and tangy contrast to its richness. Don’t overlook the charm of a hot cup of tea to enjoy alongside your cake, providing a lovely pairing that is both relaxing and satisfying.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, but fresh strawberries will provide the best flavor and texture.
→ How do I store the cake?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Strawberry Chocolate Cake
Experience the perfect blend of rich chocolate and fresh strawberries in this decadent Strawberry Chocolate Cake. Layered with luscious chocolate ganache and topped with juicy strawberry slices, this cake is ideal for celebrations or simply satisfying your dessert cravings. Each bite delivers a delightfully moist texture, making it a crowd favorite for any occasion.
Created by: Chloe Bennett
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 1 cake
What You'll Need
Cake Ingredients
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ¾ cup 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
Ganache Ingredients
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Topping Ingredients
- Fresh strawberries, sliced
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla. Mix until smooth. Slowly add boiling water, being careful as the batter will be thin.
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
In a small saucepan over medium heat, bring the heavy cream to a simmer. Remove from the heat and add the chopped chocolate. Let it sit for a few minutes before stirring until smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract and let it cool a bit before using.
Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of ganache over the top, and then place the second layer on top. Cover the entire cake with the remaining ganache, smoothing it out with a spatula. Decorate the top with fresh sliced strawberries.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Protein: 4g