Perfect Chocolate and Strawberry Cake

Today, I’m excited to share a recipe that’s a personal favorite: Chocolate and Strawberry Cake. This delightful dessert marries the rich, velvety taste of chocolate with the fresh, fruity essence of strawberries.

It’s perfect for special occasions or simply as a treat to brighten your day. Chocolate and Strawberry Cake is ideal for any occasion, from special celebrations to a simple treat to lift your spirits.

I’ve fine-tuned this recipe to ensure a moist, tender crumb and a rich, flavorful blend. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with whipped cream, ice cream, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar, this cake never fails to impress.

Let’s dive in and create this irresistible Chocolate and Strawberry Cake!

How To Prepare Chocolate and Strawberry Cake?

Recipe Details

Preparation time: 30 minutes

Cooking time: 30 minutes

Total time: 1 hour

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Calories: 450

Yield: 10servings

Equipment needed:

• Mixing bowls,
• measuring cups and spoons,
• electric mixer,
• cake pans,
• spatula,
• frosting bag,
• piping tips

Ingredients

For the cake layers:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup hot water

For the strawberry filling:

• 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1/4 cup water

For the chocolate frosting:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

How To Make Chocolate And Strawberry Cake

1. Preparing the Cake Layers

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.

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

3. In a separate bowl, combine the milk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract.  

4. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.

5. Stir in the hot water until incorporated.

6. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.

7. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.  

8. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.  

2. Making the Strawberry Filling

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the strawberries, sugar, lemon juice, cornstarch, and water.

2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly.

3. Reduce heat and simmer for 2-3 minutes, or until thickened.

4. Let the filling cool completely before using.

3. Preparing the Chocolate Frosting

1. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.

2. Stir in the cocoa powder, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.

4. Assembling the Cake

1. Place one cake layer on a serving plate.

2. Spread the strawberry filling evenly over the first layer.

3. Top with the second cake layer.

4. Frost the top and sides of the cake with the chocolate frosting.

5. Decorate with additional strawberries or chocolate shavings, if desired.

Creative Ways To Serve Your Chocolate And Strawberry Cake

1. Layered with Crème Anglaise

Serve your cake with a drizzle of crème anglaise—a creamy, vanilla custard sauce. The smooth, silky sauce complements the rich chocolate and adds a luxurious touch to each slice.

2. With Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries

Elevate the presentation by adding chocolate-dipped strawberries on the side. Simply dip fresh strawberries into melted chocolate and let them set. They make a charming and delicious addition that highlights both the chocolate and strawberry flavors of the cake.

3. As a Cake Parfait

Transform your cake into a dessert parfait by layering crumbled cake with fresh strawberries and whipped cream or yogurt in a glass. This makes for an elegant and visually appealing presentation, perfect for a dinner party.

4. Accompanied by Espresso or Coffee

Serve your cake with a small cup of espresso or a glass of cold brew coffee. The rich, bitter notes of coffee pair wonderfully with the sweet and rich flavors of the cake, creating a balanced dessert experience.

5. With a Dusting of Powdered Sugar

For a simple yet sophisticated touch, dust the top of the cake with powdered sugar just before serving. This adds a hint of sweetness and an elegant finish, making the cake look beautifully refined.

Tips and Variations

➤ For a richer flavor, use dark chocolate cocoa powder.

➤ To make the cake even more moist, add a tablespoon of espresso powder to the batter.

➤ If you don’t have fresh strawberries, you can use frozen strawberries that have been thawed and drained.

➤ For a fun twist, add a layer of chocolate ganache between the cake layers.

Can I Make This Cake Ahead Of Time?

Yes, you can prepare the Chocolate and Strawberry Cake ahead of time. Bake and cool the cake layers, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them at room temperature for up to 2 days.

For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months. Prepare the frosting and filling on the day you plan to serve the cake.

How Should I Store Leftover Cake?

Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you need to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week.

 For the best texture, wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap before freezing; it will stay fresh for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

Chocolate and Strawberry Cake is truly a standout dessert that combines the best of both worlds. The rich, indulgent chocolate pairs effortlessly with the fresh, vibrant strawberries, creating a cake that’s as delicious as it is visually appealing.

Every slice offers a perfect balance of flavors, with the creamy chocolate ganache and juicy strawberry filling enhancing each bite.

As you enjoy making and sharing this Chocolate and Strawberry Cake, remember that it’s not just about the final product but the joy of creating something truly special.

It’s a dessert that brings people together and adds a touch of sweetness to life’s moments. I hope this recipe becomes a beloved part of your baking repertoire.

Happy baking, and may your Chocolate and Strawberry Cake be as delightful as it sounds!