This decadent Strawberry Chocolate Cake is like sunlight on your taste buds, melding the richness of chocolate with the bright, fruity burst of strawberries. Imagine cutting through layers of moist chocolate cake only to reveal a surprise filling of creamy strawberry jam and fresh berries; each bite is a marriage of flavors that sings your palate’s favorite tunes. Whether it’s a birthday bash, an impromptu gathering, or just a Tuesday that needs a little spark, this cake promises to elevate any occasion into a celebration.
Baking isn’t just about combining ingredients; it’s a heartfelt journey! I remember the first time I made a cake from scratch. The kitchen turned into a flour storm, and my pup was convinced I was creating a new type of dog food. Although it ended up being a glorious mess of chocolate smeared on my cheek and flour clouds in the air, the feeling of bringing something delicious to life is irreplaceable. So, gather your loved ones, summon your inner baker, and get ready for the most delightful flavor experience with this irresistible Strawberry Chocolate Cake!
Why You'll Love This Strawberry Chocolate Cake
- This incredible Strawberry Chocolate Cake transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
- Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
- Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
- Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.
Ingredients for Strawberry Chocolate Cake
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Strawberry Chocolate Cake:
500 g strawberries – Fresh or frozen; if using frozen, ensure they are thawed and well-drained for the best flavor.
50 g granulated sugar – This sweetener helps create a luscious strawberry jam for your cake’s layers.
1 tablespoon water – Used to hydrate the strawberries while cooking for a more syrupy jam texture.
190 g all-purpose flour – The backbone of our cake, ensuring it has the right structure to hold up the delicious layers.
75 g natural cocoa powder – The star ingredient for that rich chocolate flavor and deep color.
1 teaspoon baking powder – Helps the cake rise beautifully, giving it a light and airy texture.
½ teaspoon baking soda – This complements the baking powder and also adds to that perfect lift.
½ teaspoon salt – Just enough to balance the sweetness and enhance all the flavors.
115 g unsalted butter, melted – Adds moisture and a buttery richness that makes the cake sing.
100 g light-tasting oil – Keeps the cake wonderfully moist without overpowering the flavors.
100 g granulated sugar – Sweetens the cake batter and helps create that tender crumb.
100 g brown sugar – Adds a depth of flavor with a hint of caramel and a little extra moisture.
2 large eggs, room temperature – Binds the ingredients together and contributes to the overall texture.
330 g milk, room temperature – Keeps the batter smooth and ensures the cake remains moist.
250 g cream cheese, softened to room temperature – Perfect for making a creamy frosting that pairs wonderfully with chocolate.
115 g unsalted butter, softened to room temperature – Adds richness to your frosting, making it velvety smooth.
100 g powdered sugar – Sweetens the frosting without adding grit, leading to that dreamy texture.
70 g strawberry jam – Infuses extra strawberry flavor into the frosting, echoing the cake’s luscious filling.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds a warm, sweet aroma that enhances the overall flavor.
200 g strawberries, finely diced – These will add freshness and fun texture between the layers of cake.
7 strawberries, halved for decoration – Ensure those juicy halves are beautiful and bright for a stunning finish.
How to Make Strawberry Chocolate Cake
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Strawberry Chocolate Cake:
Step 1: Prepare the Strawberry Jam
In a small pot, stir together the strawberries, granulated sugar, and water. Cook over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture comes to a boil. Keep stirring and cooking until it thickens beautifully, and then transfer it to a small bowl. Refrigerate it until completely cool.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating, take two 6-inch round cake pans and line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal later on.
Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set this bowl aside for later when you combine it with the wet ingredients.
Step 4: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, light oil, and both types of sugar until well combined. Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing until smooth. This step creates the foundation for a moist cake.
Step 5: Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Milk
Gradually add half of the flour mixture, followed by half of the milk, to the wet ingredients. Mix gently until just combined, and then repeat with the remaining dry ingredients and milk. Your batter should be creamy dreamy and ready to rock.
Step 6: Bake and Cool the Cakes
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula. Bake for about 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 7: Prepare the Frosting
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until it’s creamy. Add the softened cream cheese and mix until this duo is smooth. Gradually incorporate the powdered sugar on low speed. Finish by adding the strawberry jam and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
Step 8: Assemble the Cake
Once the cakes are cool, you’re ready to stack! Use a serrated knife to level the cake layers and slice them in half horizontally so you have four layers. On a cake turntable, place the first layer down and pipe a ring of frosting around the edge. Fill the center with about 4 tablespoons of strawberry jam, and top it with a sprinkle of diced strawberries. Repeat with the remaining layers.
Step 9: Frost the Cake
After stacking all the layers, apply a thin layer of frosting over the entire cake as a crumb coat to trap those pesky crumbs. Chill it for about 30 minutes, then add a final layer of frosting. Smooth it out with a spatula or cake scraper. Decorate the top with halved strawberries for that finishing touch of wow factor.
Transfer this beauty to a lovely cake stand and prepare for the praise to roll in. Your Strawberry Chocolate Cake is now ready to shine at any gathering!
You Must Know About Strawberry Chocolate Cake
- This showstopping Strawberry Chocolate Cake delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
- The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
- Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
- Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.
Perfecting Strawberry Chocolate Cake Cooking Process
Start by creating the strawberry jam so it can cool while you make the cake layers. Mix the dry ingredients, then combine the wet ingredients, alternating with the dry. Bake until done, and let the cakes cool completely before frosting for the best results.
Add Your Touch to Strawberry Chocolate Cake
Feel free to swap strawberries for other berries like raspberries or cherries for a twist. You can also add a splash of almond extract in the frosting for an unexpected flavor boost or sprinkle some additional cocoa powder for extra chocolatey goodness.
Storing & Reheating Strawberry Chocolate Cake
Store the Strawberry Chocolate Cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. For reheating, slice individual pieces and microwave briefly until just warm, or enjoy it cold; the flavors meld beautifully with time.
Chef's Helpful Tips for Strawberry Chocolate Cake
- This professional-quality Strawberry Chocolate Cake relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
- Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
- The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
- Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.
Sharing this Strawberry Chocolate Cake with friends on a sunny afternoon reminded me why I love baking: the smiles and compliments are worth every bit of flour on my shirt. The joy on their faces was unbeatable.
FAQs About Strawberry Chocolate Cake
What is Strawberry Chocolate Cake?
Strawberry Chocolate Cake is an indulgent dessert that harmoniously combines the rich flavor of chocolate with the refreshing sweetness of strawberries. This cake features luscious layers of moist chocolate cake, complemented by creamy strawberry jam and a delicious cream cheese frosting. It’s perfect for any occasion, from birthdays to casual gatherings, showcasing a beautiful presentation with vibrant red strawberries on top. Every bite offers a delightful contrast of flavors and textures, making it a showstopper at any dessert table.
How do I store Strawberry Chocolate Cake?
To keep your Strawberry Chocolate Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. Make sure it’s properly covered to prevent it from drying out or absorbing other odors in the fridge. If you want to enjoy it warm, you can slice individual pieces and microwave them for a few seconds. Alternatively, this cake is delicious cold, as the flavors meld beautifully, making it even more delightful the next day.
Can I make substitutions in the Strawberry Chocolate Cake recipe?
Absolutely! You can customize your Strawberry Chocolate Cake to suit your taste. For instance, swapping strawberries for other berries like raspberries or cherries adds a fun twist. If you want to enhance the flavor of the cream cheese frosting, try adding a splash of almond extract. For a more intense chocolate experience, you can sprinkle in some additional cocoa powder. Feel free to mix and match ingredients to create your perfect cake!
How can I ensure my Strawberry Chocolate Cake is perfect?
To achieve the perfect Strawberry Chocolate Cake, precise measurements and timing are essential. Make sure to use room temperature ingredients, as this ensures a smooth batter. When baking, keep an eye on the cake to avoid overbaking, which can result in a dry texture. Always test with a toothpick, pulling it out when there are a few moist crumbs attached. Additionally, let the cake layers cool completely before frosting to prevent melting. Patience is key to a stunning presentation and taste!
Conclusion for Strawberry Chocolate Cake
In summary, the Strawberry Chocolate Cake is a delightful dessert that balances rich chocolate and fresh strawberries, making it ideal for various occasions. With the right techniques and ingredients, you can create a beautiful cake that not only looks impressive but also tastes divine. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or simply indulging in a sweet treat, this Strawberry Chocolate Cake is sure to please and leave your guests asking for more. Enjoy every bite and the smiles it brings!
Strawberry Chocolate Cake
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a small pot, stir together strawberries, granulated sugar, and water. Cook over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until it comes to a boil. Continue cooking until the mixture thickens.
- Transfer the jam to a small bowl and let it cool completely in the fridge.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line the bottom of two 6" round cake pans with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together melted butter, oil, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until combined. Add the eggs and whisk until smooth.
- Alternate adding half of the flour mixture and then half of the milk, mixing until just combined after each addition.
- Divide the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans. Smooth the surface with a spatula.
- Bake for about 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out mostly clean with some crumbs attached.
- Let the cakes cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat softened butter until creamy. Add the cream cheese and continue beating until smooth.
- Add the powdered sugar and beat on low speed until combined. Add the strawberry jam and vanilla extract, and mix until combined.
- Use a serrated knife to level the cake layers and cut them in half to make four layers.
- On a cake turntable, place the first cake layer and pipe a ring of frosting around the edge.
- Add about 4 tablespoons of strawberry jam in the middle of the frosting ring and smooth it into an even layer. Add diced strawberries on top.
- Repeat with the remaining cake layers and fillings.
- Apply a thin layer of frosting to the cake as a crumb coat and scrape away the excess.
- Apply a final coat of frosting and smooth it with a scraper. Decorate with halved strawberries on top.
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