There’s nothing quite like the luscious combination of chocolate and strawberries, and this Strawberry Chocolate Cake takes that delicious pairing to new heights. Picture layers of rich, fudgy chocolate cake, decadently filled with homemade strawberry jam and studded with fresh strawberries. As you slice into it, the smooth strawberry cream cheese frosting glistens, promising a delightful experience with every bite.
I discovered this recipe during a late-night baking session when I was craving something sweet yet special, and it quickly became a favorite in my household. This cake strikes the perfect balance between the bittersweet notes of chocolate and the refreshing sweetness of strawberries, making it ideal for any celebration or simply to indulge yourself after a long day. Whether you’re an experienced home baker or just looking to impress guests without the fuss, this cake is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Let’s dive into the details of how to create this masterpiece in your own kitchen!
Why is Strawberry Chocolate Cake a Must-Try?
Indulgent Delight: This cake offers a luxurious blend of chocolate and strawberries, perfect for any occasion.
Impressive Layers: Each slice reveals beautiful layers that are bound to wow your guests.
Easy to Make: With clear instructions and common ingredients, this recipe is approachable for all skill levels.
Versatile Options: Adapt it with alternative fruits or flavors to suit your taste.
Perfect for Celebrations: Elevate birthdays, anniversaries, or even casual gatherings with this stunning dessert.
Crowd Favorite: The unique flavor combination is sure to please everyone’s palate, making it a delightful party treat.
Strawberry Chocolate Cake Ingredients
For the Strawberry Jam
- Fresh or Frozen Strawberries – Primary flavoring for both jam and filling; you can use store-bought jam as a substitute.
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetener for the jam; substitute with coconut sugar for a less refined option.
- Water – Helps to cook the strawberries into a jam consistency.
For the Chocolate Cake
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure to the cake; consider using a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free option.
- Natural Cocoa Powder – Adds rich chocolate flavor; opt for dark cocoa to intensify the taste.
- Baking Powder & Baking Soda – Leavening agents that help the cake rise; ensure they’re fresh for optimal results.
- Salt – Enhances the flavor of the cake.
- Unsalted Butter (Melted) – Adds moisture and richness; can be substituted with vegetable oil or unsweetened applesauce for a lighter version.
- Light-Tasting Oil – Provides additional moisture; neutral oils like canola or grapeseed work well.
- Granulated Sugar & Brown Sugar – Sweeteners that contribute to texture and flavor; you can reduce the quantity for a less sweet cake.
- Eggs (Room Temperature) – Binds ingredients and adds moisture; can be replaced with flax eggs for a vegan version.
- Milk (Room Temperature) – Adds moisture and richness; use almond milk for a dairy-free alternative.
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- Cream Cheese (Softened) – Creates a creamy texture for the frosting; substitute with vegan cream cheese if needed.
- Powdered Sugar – Sweetener for frosting providing smoothness; adjust the amount for desired sweetness.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances the flavor of the frosting.
For Decoration
- Strawberries (Finely Diced) – Additional filling layer and decoration; raspberries can be used as an alternative.
- Halved Strawberries – For decorative topping on the cake.
Each ingredient plays a vital role in crafting the decadent flavors of this Strawberry Chocolate Cake, promising a delightful masterpiece for your celebrations!
How to Make Strawberry Chocolate Cake
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Make Strawberry Jam: In a saucepan, combine fresh or frozen strawberries, granulated sugar, and water. Cook over medium heat for about 10-15 minutes until thickened. Chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
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Prep for Cake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two 6-inch round cake pans with parchment paper to ensure easy release.
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Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until evenly mixed. This will help create a light, fluffy texture.
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Mix Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together melted unsalted butter, light-tasting oil, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and room temperature eggs until smooth and well combined.
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Form Batter: Gradually alternate adding the dry ingredients and room temperature milk to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined without overmixing to keep your cake tender.
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Fill & Bake: Evenly divide the batter between the prepared pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
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Make Frosting: Beat softened cream cheese and a bit of unsalted butter until creamy, then gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and fluffy, adjusting the sweetness to your preference.
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Level Cakes: If the cake layers have domed tops, use a serrated knife to level them for a flatter, more even surface that’s easier to stack.
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Assemble: Place one cake layer on a serving plate, pipe a ring of frosting around the edge, and spread a layer of strawberry jam and diced strawberries before placing the second layer on top and repeating the process.
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Crumb Coat & Final Frost: Apply a thin layer of frosting around the entire cake (the crumb coat) to seal in crumbs. Chill for about 15 minutes, then spread a smooth final layer of frosting. Decorate the top with halved strawberries.
Optional: Top with whipped cream or a drizzle of chocolate for an extra treat.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Storage Tips for Strawberry Chocolate Cake
- Fridge: Store your Strawberry Chocolate Cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This keeps the cake moist and fresh while preserving the delightful flavors.
- Freezer: If you’d like to enjoy the cake later, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 1 month without compromising flavor.
- Reheating: When ready to enjoy frozen slices, thaw them in the fridge overnight. For a warm treat, microwave for 10-15 seconds to slightly soften.
- Room Temperature: To serve, allow the cake to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving for the best taste and texture!
Expert Tips for Strawberry Chocolate Cake
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure eggs, butter, and cream cheese are at room temperature. This helps create a smooth batter and frosting, avoiding lumps.
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh strawberries for the best flavor in your jam and frosting. Frozen strawberries can change the texture and taste of your strawberry chocolate cake.
- Avoid Overmixing: Be gentle when combining wet and dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake instead of a light, fluffy one.
- Cool Completely: Allow your cake layers to cool completely before frosting. Frosting a warm cake can lead to melting and a messy finish.
- Quality Cocoa: For a rich chocolate flavor, choose high-quality natural cocoa powder. It can significantly enhance the taste of your strawberry chocolate cake.
Make Ahead Options
These Strawberry Chocolate Cake components are perfect for meal prep and can save you valuable time on baking day! You can make the strawberry jam up to 3 days ahead; simply cook the strawberries, sugar, and water, then refrigerate it in an airtight container. For the cake layers, prepare the batter and bake them, allowing them to cool for up to 24 hours before frosting. To maintain the cake’s moistness, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. When you’re ready to serve, just frost the cake with your prepared cream cheese frosting and decorate it with fresh strawberries. This ensures your cake will be just as delicious and visually stunning, with minimal effort on the day of your celebration!
What to Serve with Strawberry Chocolate Cake?
Indulge in the ultimate dessert experience by complementing your rich, velvety Strawberry Chocolate Cake with delightful side dishes and treats!
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Vanilla Ice Cream:
A classic pairing that adds a creamy and cool contrast to the rich flavors of the cake. This combination melts in your mouth and enhances your taste buds with every bite. -
Whipped Cream:
Light and fluffy, whipped cream adds a delightful texture and creamy touch that balances the fudgy cake beautifully. A dollop on the side or on top elevates your dessert moment. -
Fresh Berries:
Serve with a mix of fresh strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a refreshing burst of flavors. The juicy pops complement the chocolate and create a vibrant, colorful plate. -
Chocolate Ganache Drizzle:
For an extravagant touch, drizzle warm chocolate ganache over each slice. This adds a rich, glossy layer that enhances the cake’s chocolatey goodness in every bite. -
Mint Leaves:
Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a splash of color and a refreshing herbal note. The contrast of flavors brings a lively element to the dessert. -
Sparkling Water or Prosecco:
Opt for a light, bubbly drink like sparkling water or a chilled glass of prosecco to cleanse the palate and elevate your dessert experience. Perfect for celebrations or simply indulging!
Enjoy this lovely selection of accompaniments that will turn your Strawberry Chocolate Cake into a memorable feast!
Strawberry Chocolate Cake Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity and customize this delightful cake to fit your taste buds!
- Dairy-Free: Swap regular milk with almond or oat milk and use dairy-free cream cheese for the frosting.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free variation.
- Fruit Twists: Replace strawberries with blueberries or raspberries for a fun twist on flavor and texture. The result is just as scrumptious!
- Nutty Crunch: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for an extra layer of crunch that complements the softness of the cake.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne or cinnamon into the batter for a surprising twist that adds warmth and depth.
- Chocolate Lovers: Boost the chocolate flavor by adding chocolate chips to the batter, ensuring every slice is a chocolatey dream.
- Mini Cakes: Bake as mini cakes in muffin tins for cute, individual servings—perfect for parties or sharing!
- Frosting Fun: Experiment with flavored extracts in the frosting, like lemon or almond, to change the flavor profile without much effort.
Strawberry Chocolate Cake Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right strawberries for my cake?
Absolutely! Look for fresh strawberries that are vibrant red, firm, and free from dark spots or blemishes. If you have to use frozen strawberries, make sure they are unsweetened and ideally thawed before cooking for the jam.
How should I store the leftover Strawberry Chocolate Cake?
To keep your cake tasting delicious, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to save it for later, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 1 month without losing its delightful flavor.
Can I freeze Strawberry Chocolate Cake?
Yes, you can! To freeze, slice the cake and wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap, and then in aluminum foil. This keeps the cake fresh for about 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw the slices in the fridge overnight. For a warm treat, microwave them for about 10-15 seconds.
What if my cake sinks in the middle after baking?
Very! A sunken cake can happen due to underbaking or too much liquid in your batter. To prevent this, always use a toothpick to test for doneness. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready. Also, ensure you’re measuring ingredients accurately.
Are there any allergy considerations I should keep in mind?
Absolutely! If you’re serving guests with allergies, remember to keep an eye on common allergens. Substitute eggs with flax eggs for a vegan option, and use almond or coconut milk for dairy-free versions. Always confirm ingredient labels for potential hidden allergens.
Can I make this cake in advance?
Yes, you can! You can bake and frost the cake a day ahead of your event. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just remember to let the cake sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving for the perfect texture.
Decadent Strawberry Chocolate Cake for Sweet Celebrations
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a saucepan, combine fresh or frozen strawberries, granulated sugar, and water. Cook over medium heat for about 10-15 minutes until thickened. Chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two 6-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until evenly mixed.
- In another bowl, whisk together melted unsalted butter, light-tasting oil, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and room temperature eggs until smooth.
- Gradually alternate adding the dry ingredients and room temperature milk to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Evenly divide the batter between the prepared pans. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Beat softened cream cheese and a bit of unsalted butter until creamy, then gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth.
- If the cake layers have domed tops, use a serrated knife to level them.
- Place one layer on a serving plate, pipe a ring of frosting, add a layer of strawberry jam and diced strawberries, then place the second layer on top and repeat.
- Apply a thin layer of frosting around the entire cake to seal in crumbs. Chill for about 15 minutes, then spread a smooth final layer of frosting and decorate with halved strawberries.