Chocolate Strawberry Layer Cake

If you’re looking to wow your friends and family with a stunning dessert, the Chocolate Strawberry Layer Cake is the perfect choice. This delightful cake combines rich chocolate layers with fresh strawberries and creamy whipped icing, making it a true crowd-pleaser. It’s ideal for birthdays, anniversaries, or any celebration where you want to bring a little extra sweetness.

Why make this recipe?

This Chocolate Strawberry Layer Cake isn’t just a feast for the eyes; it’s also incredibly delicious! The combination of moist chocolate cake, fresh strawberries, and silky chocolate ganache creates a flavor explosion. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to showcase seasonal strawberries. With straightforward ingredients and a forgiving baking process, this recipe can be easily mastered by both novice and experienced bakers alike. 🍫🍓

How to prepare Chocolate Strawberry Layer Cake

Ingredients:

• 1 3/4 cups (220 g) all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup (65 g) unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 cups (400 g) granulated sugar
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 large eggs 🥚
• 1 cup (240 ml) buttermilk (or milk + 1 tbsp vinegar)
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) vegetable oil
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup (240 ml) hot coffee (or hot water for milder flavor)
• 2 cups (480 ml) heavy whipping cream, chilled 🥛
• 1/2 cup (60 g) powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 8 oz (225 g) semi-sweet chocolate, chopped 🍫
• 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
• Fresh strawberries (whole + halved) 🍓

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well blended.
3. Add in the eggs, buttermilk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Beat the mixture on medium speed for about 2 minutes.
4. Stir in the hot coffee until the batter is smooth. The batter will be thin.
5. Divide the batter equally among the prepared cake pans and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
7. For the whipped cream, in a large bowl, beat the chilled heavy whipping cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
8. For the ganache, heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan until just simmering. Pour it over the chopped chocolate in a bowl, let sit for a few minutes, then stir until smooth.
9. To assemble, place one layer of chocolate cake on a serving platter, spread a layer of whipped cream, and arrange halved strawberries on top. Repeat with the second layer.
10. Top with the last layer of cake and cover the entire cake with remaining whipped cream. Drizzle the chocolate ganache over the top and let it set. Decorate with fresh strawberries.

How to serve Chocolate Strawberry Layer Cake

Slice the Chocolate Strawberry Layer Cake into generous pieces and serve it chilled or at room temperature. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat! 🍰☕

How to store Chocolate Strawberry Layer Cake

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The cake may be frozen for up to a month; wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag.

Tips for preparing Chocolate Strawberry Layer Cake

• Make sure your eggs and dairy products are at room temperature to ensure a smooth batter.
• Don’t skip the step of using hot coffee—it enhances the chocolate flavor beautifully.
• Decorate with strawberries right before serving to prevent them from becoming soggy.

Variations

• Add a layer of chocolate mousse between the cake layers for an even richer dessert.
• Try using different fruits like raspberries or blueberries for a fun twist!

FAQs

1. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! You can bake the cake layers a day in advance. Just store them wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature until you’re ready to assemble.

2. What type of chocolate should I use for the ganache?
Semi-sweet chocolate works great for a balanced flavor, but you can also use dark chocolate if you prefer a deeper chocolate taste.

3. Can I substitute the buttermilk?
Absolutely! To make your own buttermilk, add one tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to a cup of milk and let it sit for about 5 minutes before using.

Enjoy making this decadent Chocolate Strawberry Layer Cake! 🎂✨