Strawberry Chocolate Cake

Name: Strawberry Chocolate Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar; 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder; 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 large eggs; 1 cup whole milk; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 cup boiling water; 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/4 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Indulge in the delectable combination of rich chocolate and fresh strawberries with this irresistible Strawberry Chocolate Cake.

Created by

Sabrina Holt

Last updated on 2025-12-21T01:10:56.675Z

This Strawberry Chocolate Cake is a show-stopping dessert that combines the luscious flavors of chocolate with the freshness of strawberries. Perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or any celebration!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh strawberry slices
Moist and fluffy cake that melts in your mouth
Beautifully layered for a stunning presentation

      

A Perfect Dessert for Every Occasion

This Strawberry Chocolate Cake is not just a treat for the taste buds; it's also a feast for the eyes. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a dinner party, or simply looking to impress your family on a weekend, this cake is sure to be the star of the show. The vibrant red strawberries contrast beautifully with the rich, dark chocolate layers, creating a stunning centerpiece for any table.

Moreover, the combination of chocolate and strawberries is timeless. These flavors resonate with many, making them a universally loved duo. By serving this cake, you’re not only providing dessert; you’re offering a delightful experience that brings smiles and satisfaction. It's the perfect way to end a meal or enjoy a sweet moment during the day.

Tips for Baking Success

When preparing the cake batter, ensure that all ingredients are at room temperature. This small step allows for better emulsification and results in a more uniform batter, leading to a moist and fluffy cake. Additionally, when mixing, avoid overmixing; gently combine until just incorporated to maintain the cake's light texture.

Another important tip is to measure your flour correctly. Spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife. This prevents packing and ensures you don’t end up with a dense cake. Remember, baking is as much a science as it is an art, so precision in measuring ingredients is key to achieving the best results.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

To keep your Strawberry Chocolate Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you need to keep it longer, consider refrigerating it, but make sure to bring it back to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture. The cake can also be frozen for up to three months; just wrap it well in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.

When serving, consider pairing your cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. This adds an extra layer of indulgence and complements the flavors beautifully. For an elegant touch, you might also drizzle some chocolate sauce or a berry coulis on the plate for presentation. Your guests will be in for a delightful treat!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for the cake.

For the Cake

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

For the Strawberry Filling

2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice

For the Frosting

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
3 1/2 cups powdered sugar
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.

Instructions

Prepare the Cake Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla, and mix until smooth. Stir in boiling water until well combined.

Bake the Cakes

Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans. Bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.

Prepare the Strawberry Filling

In a bowl, mix sliced strawberries with sugar and lemon juice. Let it sit for about 15 minutes to release juices.

Make the Frosting

In a separate bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and cocoa powder, alternating with heavy cream and vanilla. Beat until fluffy and smooth.

Assemble the Cake

Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving platter. Spread a layer of frosting on top, followed by the strawberry filling. Place the second cake layer on top, and frost the top and sides of the cake.

Decorate with additional strawberries if desired.

Refrigerate the cake for about 30 minutes to set the frosting before serving.

Variations to Try

Feel free to customize your Strawberry Chocolate Cake to suit your taste preferences. For a more decadent experience, incorporate chocolate ganache between the layers or use dark chocolate for the frosting. You can also experiment with different types of berries; raspberries or blueberries can add a unique twist to the traditional flavor combination.

If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider substituting the whole milk with almond milk or using a lighter frosting made with whipped cream. This way, you can enjoy the rich flavors without the heaviness, making it a great choice for warm weather or lighter meals.

Frequently Asked Questions

One common question about this recipe is whether you can make it ahead of time. Absolutely! The cake layers can be baked a day in advance and stored properly. Just frost it the day you plan to serve it for the freshest taste. This planning can save you time on the day of your event, allowing you to enjoy the occasion more.

Another inquiry often arises regarding the best way to cut the cake. To achieve clean slices, use a sharp knife and warm it under hot water before cutting. Wiping the knife between cuts can also help maintain the cake's beautiful layers, ensuring each slice is as appealing as the last.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before using.

→ How do I store the cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the cakes a day in advance and assemble them when ready to serve.

→ What can I substitute for eggs?

You can use applesauce or a commercial egg replacer as a substitute for eggs in this recipe.