Brown Derby Cake Recipe | Best Dessert

Brown Derby Cake Recipe consists of rich chocolate cake layers filled and iced using fresh whipped cream and sliced California strawberries.

This dessert delivers a delicious balance of deep chocolate flavor and fresh fruit sweetness. The recipe dates back to the famous Brown Derby restaurant in Hollywood, where it gained popularity among guests and celebrities alike.

Watching classic baking shows or old Hollywood films often inspires making this cake. Many enjoy preparing Brown Derby Cake Recipe during special family gatherings or celebrations.

The steps to create this delightful cake involve baking moist chocolate layers, whipping fresh cream, slicing strawberries, and assembling everything carefully.

About This Recipe

Brown Derby Cake Recipe features rich chocolate layers filled and iced with fresh whipped cream and topped with sliced California strawberries.

This Brown Derby Cake Recipe offers a delicious mix of moist chocolate and creamy, fresh fruit. Inspired by classic American bakery flavors, it often comes to mind while watching baking shows.

The perfect time to make this Brown Derby Cake Recipe is when craving a special, homemade treat. Now, the step-by-step recipe will be explained.

How To Prepare Brown Derby Cake Recipe?

Recipe Overview

Preparation Time: 30 minutes

Baking Time: 35 minutes

Cooling & Decorating Time: 45 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Calories: 480 kcal per serving (based on 12 servings)

Yield: 10 servings

Kitchen Utensils Needed

• 2 x 9-inch round cake pans
• Mixing bowls (large and medium)
• Electric mixer or whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• Cooling rack
• Serrated knife (for leveling or slicing layers)
• Cake stand or serving plate

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Cake

• 1 ¾ cups (220g) all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup (65g) unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup (240ml) whole milk
• ½ cup (120ml) vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup (240ml) boiling water

For the Whipped Cream

• 2 ½ cups (600ml) cold heavy whipping cream
• ½ cup (60g) powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Filling & Decoration

• 2 ½ cups (about 450g) fresh California strawberries, hulled and sliced
• Whole strawberries (for garnish)
• Chocolate shavings or curls (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Oven & Pans

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, or line them with parchment paper for easy release.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Add the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract directly into the dry mixture. Beat on medium speed for about 2 minutes, until the batter is smooth and well-blended.

Step 4: Incorporate Boiling Water

Slowly stir in the boiling water. The batter will be thin—this is expected and helps create a moist cake.

Step 5: Bake the Cakes

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool the Cakes

Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before assembling.

Step 7: Prepare the Whipped Cream

In a chilled mixing bowl, whip the cold heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together until stiff peaks form. Keep refrigerated until ready to use.

Step 8: Assemble the Cake

Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of whipped cream on top, then arrange sliced strawberries over the cream.

Place the second cake layer on top. Frost the entire cake with the remaining whipped cream. Finish with whole strawberries and chocolate shavings or curls for decoration.

What Is Special About Brown Derby Cake?

What makes Brown Derby Cake Recipe special is its combination of rich, moist chocolate cake layers filled and topped with freshly whipped cream and sweet California strawberries.

This unique blend of deep chocolate and fresh fruit creates a light yet indulgent flavor. The cake has historical roots in Hollywood’s iconic Brown Derby restaurant, adding a touch of glamour and nostalgia.

Its elegant appearance, refreshing taste, and smooth texture make it a standout dessert that’s both classic and memorable.

Decorate And Serving Ideas

To decorate the Brown Derby Cake Recipe, spread whipped cream evenly over the top and sides, then gently press chocolate shavings or curls along the edges.

Arrange whole strawberries or halved ones on top in a circular pattern for a beautiful finish. Chill the cake before serving to keep the cream firm.

Slice with a sharp knife and serve each piece with a few extra strawberry slices on the side for an elegant and fresh presentation.

My Tips For Success!

◆ Cream temperature matters – Always use heavy cream straight from the fridge. Warm cream won’t whip properly and may collapse quickly.

◆ Bake one day ahead – Baking the cake a day before assembling allows the flavors to develop and makes the layers easier to handle.

◆ Use a cake turntable – This makes frosting and decorating smoother and more even, especially when working with whipped cream.

◆ Pat strawberries dry – After washing, gently dry the strawberries to avoid adding excess moisture that can make the cream runny.

◆ Cool cake layers on a rack – Air circulation helps cool the cake evenly and prevents soggy bottoms.

◆ Store covered in fridge – Keep the cake in a sealed container or cake dome to maintain freshness and prevent the whipped cream from drying out.

◆ Taste test your whipped cream – Adjust sweetness before spreading it to balance perfectly with the chocolate and strawberries.

How To Store Leftovers

To store leftover Brown Derby Cake Recipe, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to keep it fresh and prevent the whipped cream from drying out.

Store the Brown Derby Cake Recipe in the refrigerator since it contains fresh cream and strawberries. It will stay good for up to 3 days.

Before serving leftovers, let the cake sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes to soften slightly for the best taste and texture.

Avoid freezing, as the whipped cream and strawberries may lose their texture and become watery when thawed.

FAQs About Brown Derby Cake Recipe

Personal Touch or Story

Brown Derby Cake Recipe has always been my go-to dessert for special family gatherings. Its rich chocolate layers combined with fresh strawberries and fluffy whipped cream remind me of warm, joyful celebrations growing up.

Baking it brings back those sweet memories, filling the kitchen with a cozy atmosphere. Sharing this Brown Derby Cake Recipe feels like sharing a piece of my heart with everyone around the table.

Conclusion

This Brown Derby Cake Recipe is easy to make and truly delicious. The rich chocolate layers combined with fresh whipped cream and juicy strawberries create a mouthwatering dessert everyone will enjoy.

I hope this guide is helpful and makes your baking experience smooth and enjoyable. Once you take the first bite, you’ll taste how soft, creamy, and flavorful Brown Derby Cake Recipe.

The balance of chocolate and fresh fruit makes every slice a sweet and satisfying success.

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