If you adore the harmonious combination of rich chocolate and fresh fruit, this Chocolate Strawberry Cake Recipe is going to become your new favorite treat. Picture a moist, deep chocolate cake layered generously with luscious strawberries that balance sweetness and tang perfectly. This recipe is easy enough for any home baker yet impressive enough to serve at celebrations. Whether for a weekend indulgence or a special occasion, this cake brings joy in every bite with its vibrant colors and irresistible flavors.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Chocolate Strawberry Cake Recipe begins with a handful of simple, essential ingredients that blend together to create a moist, flavorful cake and complement the fresh strawberries. Each item plays its part, whether it’s adding tenderness, richness, or just the right lift to the batter.
- All-purpose flour: The base that gives structure to the cake, ensuring it’s soft but stable enough to hold its layers.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: Provides the deep chocolate flavor and that beautiful dark color we crave.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake and helps tenderize the crumb for a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Baking powder: The leavening agent that makes sure your cake rises perfectly fluffy and light.
- Salt: Enhances the chocolate flavor, balancing sweetness with a subtle savory note.
- Large eggs: Add moisture and bind everything together for a delightfully cohesive crumb.
- Whole milk (or almond/oat milk): Moisturizes the batter and enriches the flavor, plus offers dairy-free alternatives if needed.
- Vegetable oil (or melted butter): Keeps the cake moist and tender, giving it that soft, delicate finish.
- Vanilla extract: Brings warmth and highlights the chocolate and strawberry flavors beautifully.
- Fresh strawberries, sliced: The star ingredient that adds freshness, natural sweetness, and a lovely bright contrast to the dark cake.
How to Make Chocolate Strawberry Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pans
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s at the perfect temperature when you’re ready to bake. Grease two round cake pans so your cake layers can bake evenly and release easily without sticking.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. This step combines the foundation for your cake’s texture and flavor, giving your batter an even rise and that rich chocolate base.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, beat the large eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until everything is smooth and well blended. This mixture adds moisture and richness, which will ensure your cake stays tender and flavorful.
Step 4: Bring the Batter Together
Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with dry ingredients, folding until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep your cake light and airy. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans for consistent layers.
Step 5: Bake and Cool
Bake the cakes for 25-30 minutes, testing doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean, they’re done. Allow the cakes to cool in their pans for 10 minutes before turning them out onto wire racks to cool completely.
Step 6: Assemble with Strawberries
Once cooled, spread your favorite chocolate frosting over one layer, scatter sliced fresh strawberries on top, then place the second cake layer on top. Repeat frosting and strawberry layers as desired for a beautiful, delicious presentation.
How to Serve Chocolate Strawberry Cake Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance your Chocolate Strawberry Cake Recipe by decorating with whole fresh strawberries, chocolate shavings, or a dusting of cocoa powder. These simple touches make the cake look spectacular and add layers of flavor and texture with every bite.
Side Dishes
Serve a small scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream alongside your cake slice. These cool accompaniments pair wonderfully with the rich chocolate and vibrant strawberries, creating a well-rounded dessert experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Try layering the cake in individual glass parfaits for a charming twist, or transform it into a trifle by mixing cake chunks with strawberries and cream. For an elegant touch, drizzle with a berry coulis or chocolate ganache right before serving.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store leftover Chocolate Strawberry Cake Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps the strawberries fresh and the cake moist. Make sure to bring the cake to room temperature before enjoying for the best flavor.
Freezing
To freeze, wrap the cake layers tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before assembling with fresh strawberries and frosting.
Reheating
Since this cake is best served cool or at room temperature, reheating is not recommended as it can alter the texture and freshness of the strawberries. Instead, simply let frozen or refrigerated slices come to room temperature before serving.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Fresh strawberries are best for this recipe because they hold their shape and provide a bright, fresh flavor. Frozen strawberries release more juice, which can make the cake soggy. If you must use frozen, be sure to thaw and drain them well first.
Is there a dairy-free option for this cake?
Absolutely! Use almond or oat milk instead of whole milk and substitute vegetable oil for melted dairy-free butter. These swaps keep the cake moist and delicious without compromising flavor.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, try using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that can be substituted cup for cup. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum or another binder to maintain the cake’s structure.
What chocolate frosting pairs best with this cake?
A classic chocolate buttercream or a rich ganache complements the cake beautifully. You might also consider a cream cheese frosting with a hint of cocoa for a tangy twist that enhances the strawberry flavor.
How do I keep the strawberries from making the cake soggy?
Slice the strawberries right before assembling the cake and avoid layering too heavily to ensure they don’t release excess juice. Alternatively, toss the berries lightly in a bit of sugar and drain any liquid before adding them between the cake layers.
Final Thoughts
This Chocolate Strawberry Cake Recipe is a wonderful way to celebrate the classic pairing of chocolate and berries in a simple yet stunning dessert. It’s perfect for sharing with loved ones or treating yourself to a sweet moment. Once you try it, you’ll see how easy it is to create a cake that looks special and tastes even better. Go on, bake this cake and watch smiles appear with every slice!
Print
Chocolate Strawberry Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Chocolate Strawberry Cake is a delectable dessert combining rich cocoa flavor with the fresh sweetness of strawberries. Perfectly moist and tender, this cake layers fluffy chocolate cake with fresh strawberry slices and smooth chocolate frosting, making it an ideal treat for any celebration or casual indulgence.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 ½ tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp salt
Wet Ingredients
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk (or almond/oat milk)
- ½ cup vegetable oil (or melted butter)
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
Additional
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
- Chocolate frosting (quantity as desired, not specified)
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two round cake pans to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt until evenly combined.
- Combine wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Make the batter: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients bowl and gently fold them together until just combined, being careful not to overmix to keep the cake tender.
- Bake the cake layers: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
- Assemble the cake: Once the cake layers have fully cooled, spread a layer of chocolate frosting on one cake layer, then add a generous layer of sliced fresh strawberries on top. Place the second cake layer over the first and frost the top and sides as desired. Garnish with additional sliced strawberries if preferred.
Notes
- You can substitute whole milk with almond or oat milk for a dairy-free option.
- Use vegetable oil or melted butter based on preference; butter will give a richer flavor.
- Ensure not to overmix the batter to maintain a light, fluffy texture in the cake.
- Chocolate frosting quantities are not specified; adjust amount according to your preference for layering and topping.
- For even baking, make sure your oven is preheated fully before placing the cake pans inside.
- Fresh strawberries work best for layering to keep the cake moist and fresh-tasting.
