Description
Welcome, dessert lovers! If you’re craving a heavenly combination of rich chocolate and fresh strawberries, this Chocolate Strawberry Cake is just the treat you need. Perfect for celebrations or indulgent afternoons, this cake is as delightful to make as it is to eat. Let’s dive into this irresistible dessert recipe that promises to be the star of any table!
Ingredients
Scale
For the Chocolate Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water
For the Strawberry Filling:
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp water
For the Chocolate Ganache:
- 8 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
For Decoration:
- Fresh strawberries
- Chocolate shavings or curls (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Layers
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line three 8-inch (20cm) round cake pans with parchment paper.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, sift together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Add wet ingredients: Pour in the milk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until combined.
- Incorporate boiling water: Gradually add boiling water while mixing, creating a smooth, thin batter.
- Bake: Divide the batter evenly among the pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool the cakes: Let the layers cool in their pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
Step 2: Prepare the Strawberry Filling
- Cook the strawberries: Combine chopped strawberries and sugar in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the berries release their juices.
- Thicken the mixture: Mix cornstarch and water in a small bowl, then stir into the saucepan. Cook for 2-3 minutes until thickened.
- Cool: Remove from heat and allow the filling to cool completely.
Step 3: Make the Chocolate Ganache
- Heat the cream: Warm heavy cream in a small saucepan until it simmers.
- Combine with chocolate: Pour the hot cream over chopped chocolate in a bowl. Let sit for 1-2 minutes, then stir until smooth.
- Thicken: Allow the ganache to cool slightly for better consistency.
Step 4: Assemble the Cake
- Layer with filling: Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread strawberry filling evenly over the top. Repeat with the second layer.
- Top with ganache: Place the final cake layer and pour ganache over the top, letting it drip down the sides.
Step 5: Decorate
- Add toppings: Garnish with fresh strawberries and optional chocolate shavings for an elegant finish.
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
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Buy Now →Notes
- Use room-temperature ingredients: This ensures a smoother batter and even baking.
- Don’t overmix: Mix just until combined to avoid a dense cake.
- Prepare ahead: The strawberry filling can be made a day in advance to save time.
- Chill for stability: Refrigerate the cake for 30 minutes before slicing to maintain clean layers.