Name: Strawberry Chocolate Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar; ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 2 tsp baking soda; 1 tsp baking powder; ½ tsp salt; 2 large eggs; 1 cup buttermilk; ½ cup vegetable oil; 2 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup hot coffee (or hot water); 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced; ¼ cup granulated sugar; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1 cup heavy cream; 8 oz dark chocolate, chopped; Fresh whole strawberries; Chocolate shavings (optional)

Strawberry and chocolate make the perfect combination for a rich, indulgent dessert. This strawberry chocolate cake features moist chocolate layers, a luscious strawberry filling, and a silky chocolate ganache that melts in your mouth. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving something sweet, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to make the best strawberry chocolate cake from scratch, including step-by-step instructions, essential baking tips, and variations to suit your taste. Let’s get started!

If you love rich, chocolate-based desserts, you should also check out this Black Velvet Cake Recipe for another indulgent treat!

Ingredients for Strawberry Chocolate Cake

A perfect strawberry chocolate cake requires high-quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dessert.

1. Essential Ingredients for the Chocolate Cake

The foundation of this cake is a rich, moist chocolate sponge.

Dry Ingredients:

2 cups all-purpose flour – Provides structure to the cake.
1 ¾ cups granulated sugar – Sweetens and enhances texture.
¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder – Use high-quality cocoa for a deep chocolate flavor.
2 teaspoons baking powder – Helps the cake rise.
1 teaspoon baking soda – Balances acidity for a fluffy texture.
½ teaspoon salt – Enhances all flavors.

Wet Ingredients:

1 cup buttermilk – Adds moisture and a slight tang. (Substitute: Whole milk + 1 tbsp vinegar)
½ cup vegetable oil – Keeps the cake soft and tender.
2 large eggs – Provide structure and stability.
2 teaspoons vanilla extract – Enhances the chocolate flavor.
1 cup hot coffee or hot water – Intensifies the chocolate flavor and creates a moist texture. (Don’t worry, you won’t taste the coffee!)

2. Ingredients for the Strawberry Filling

Fresh strawberry filling adds a fruity contrast to the chocolate layers.

2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced – Use ripe, juicy strawberries.
¼ cup granulated sugar – Helps release the strawberry juices.
1 tablespoon cornstarch – Thickens the filling.
1 tablespoon lemon juice – Enhances the natural sweetness.

(Tip: If strawberries are out of season, you can use frozen strawberries—just thaw and drain excess liquid first.)

3. Ingredients for the Chocolate Ganache

This silky ganache drapes beautifully over the cake, adding richness and a glossy finish.

1 cup heavy cream – The base of the ganache.
8 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped – For a deep, smooth chocolate glaze.
1 tablespoon unsalted butter – Gives the ganache a shiny finish.

4. Ingredients for the Whipped Cream (Optional Topping)

For extra creaminess, add a light whipped cream topping.

1 cup heavy whipping cream – Creates soft, fluffy peaks.
2 tablespoons powdered sugar – Sweetens the whipped cream.
½ teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds a touch of flavor.

How to Make Strawberry Chocolate Cake

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the baking process!

Step 1: Prepare the Chocolate Cake Batter

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt to remove any lumps.
Add the buttermilk, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until the batter is smooth and well combined.
Gradually pour in the hot coffee (or hot water), stirring constantly. The batter will be thin, but this is normal! It helps create a moist, airy texture.
Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans.

Step 2: Bake the Chocolate Cake Layers

Place the pans in the center of the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes.
To check if the cakes are done, insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, they’re ready.
Remove from the oven and let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes.
Carefully transfer the cakes onto a wire rack to cool completely before assembling.

Step 3: Make the Strawberry Filling

While the cakes are cooling, prepare the strawberry filling.

In a small saucepan, combine sliced strawberries, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice.
Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and becomes syrupy (about 5-7 minutes).
Remove from heat and let the filling cool completely before using.

Step 4: Prepare the Chocolate Ganache

Ganache should be smooth and pourable, but not too thin.

Heat heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until it just starts to simmer.
Remove from heat and immediately pour over the chopped chocolate in a bowl.
Let it sit for 2-3 minutes before stirring.
Add the butter and stir until the ganache is smooth and glossy.
Let it cool for 5-10 minutes until it thickens slightly.

Step 5: Assemble the Cake

Now comes the fun part—putting everything together!

Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand.
Spread the cooled strawberry filling evenly over the cake.
Place the second cake layer on top, pressing gently to secure it.
Pour the chocolate ganache over the cake, letting it drip naturally down the sides.
If desired, pipe whipped cream around the edges and garnish with fresh strawberries.

Step 6: Let the Cake Set & Serve

Allow the cake to set for at least 30 minutes before slicing. This helps the ganache firm up.
Slice and serve your homemade strawberry chocolate cake with extra strawberries or whipped cream!

Why This Recipe Works

✅ Super Moist Cake: The hot coffee enhances the chocolate flavor and keeps the cake soft.
✅ Fresh & Fruity Balance: The strawberry filling adds natural sweetness and freshness.
✅ Decadent Ganache: A smooth, rich topping makes this cake extra indulgent.
✅ Perfect for Any Occasion: Birthdays, anniversaries, Valentine’s Day, or just a weekend treat!

Tips for the Perfect Strawberry Chocolate Cake

1. Use High-Quality Cocoa Powder

For the best chocolate flavor, use Dutch-processed cocoa powder or a high-quality unsweetened cocoa.

2. Don’t Skip the Coffee

Hot coffee enhances the richness of chocolate. If you don’t want to use coffee, hot water works as a substitute.

3. Cool Cakes Completely Before Frosting

Warm cakes can cause the ganache and filling to melt and slide off. Always cool them completely before assembling.

4. Use Fresh or Frozen Strawberries

Fresh strawberries give the best texture, but if they’re out of season, frozen strawberries work just as well. Just make sure to thaw and drain excess liquid before using.

5. Store the Cake Properly

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Wrap slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months.

Variations of Strawberry Chocolate Cake

1. Strawberry Chocolate Mousse Cake

Add a layer of strawberry mousse between the chocolate cake layers for an even creamier texture.

2. Vegan Strawberry Chocolate Cake

Replace eggs with flaxseed eggs and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream.

3. Gluten-Free Strawberry Chocolate Cake

Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to make this cake gluten-free.

FAQs About Strawberry Chocolate Cake

1. Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes! Bake the cake layers a day ahead and store them at room temperature. Assemble the cake just before serving.

2. What if I don’t have buttermilk?

You can make a substitute by mixing 1 cup of whole milk with 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice.

3. Can I use strawberry jam instead of fresh strawberries?

Yes! You can use store-bought strawberry jam instead of making your own filling.

4. How do I get smooth ganache drips?

Let the ganache cool slightly before pouring it over the cake. Use a spoon or piping bag to control the drips.

5. Can I make this into cupcakes?

Absolutely! Bake for 18-20 minutes at 350°F (175°C) and fill with strawberry jam or fresh strawberry compote.

Conclusion

This strawberry chocolate cake is a show-stopping dessert that combines rich chocolate, fresh strawberries, and creamy ganache into one irresistible treat. Perfect for birthdays, Valentine’s Day, or any special occasion, it’s a cake that will impress every time.

Want More Dessert Ideas?

If you’re looking for another irresistible dessert, why not try this Easy Brookie Recipe? A perfect mix of brownies and cookies in one delicious bite!

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Description

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Cake:

For the Strawberry Filling:

For the Chocolate Ganache:

For Garnish:

Instructions

Notes

Nutrition