There’s a special joy that comes from the first bite of a homemade dessert, and this rich strawberry chocolate cake is no exception. Picture it: layers of fudgy chocolate cake embraced by velvety cream cheese frosting, complemented by bursts of fresh strawberry jam. The moment you slice into this beauty, the aroma swirls through the kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around and indulge. This cake is not only a feast for the taste buds but a visual delight, perfect for celebrations or simply brightening up a weekday dinner.
I discovered this recipe while looking for an escape from the mundane weekday sweets, and let me tell you, it exceeded all my expectations. With its balance of rich chocolate and fresh strawberries, this strawberry chocolate cake transforms any occasion into something truly special. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just treating yourself after a long day, this dessert promises to impress and satisfy even the most discerning palates. So let’s dive into the delightful world of baking and create a moment of pure happiness!
Why is Strawberry Chocolate Cake a must-try?
Decadent layers of fudgy chocolate cake paired with fresh strawberry jam create an irresistible flavor profile that screams celebration. Creamy frosting made from cream cheese adds a luscious finish, ensuring every bite is a delight. Easy to make, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all levels and can be whipped up in under an hour! Versatility shines here, as you can serve it at parties or enjoy it as a special treat at home. Plus, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser—everyone will be asking for seconds. Explore more desserts like this by checking out our ultimate guide to baking!
Strawberry Chocolate Cake Ingredients
• Discover all the essential elements for creating this divine chocolate strawberry cake!
For the Cake Layers
- Strawberry Jam – Adds sweetness and fruity flavor; substitute with store-bought jam if short on time.
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure for the cake; substitute with gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free option.
- Natural Cocoa Powder – Imparts rich chocolate flavor; Dutch-process cocoa can deepen the color but adjust baking soda accordingly.
- Baking Powder – Helps the cake rise; ensure it’s fresh for the best results.
- Baking Soda – An additional leavening agent; use with an acidic ingredient like buttermilk for optimal rise.
- Salt – Enhances flavor; omit if on a low-sodium diet.
- Unsalted Butter (melted) – Adds moisture and flavor; substitute with vegetable oil for a non-dairy option.
- Light-Tasting Oil – Contributes to moisture; can use any neutral oil like canola or melted coconut oil.
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cake; may replace part with brown sugar for a more complex flavor.
- Brown Sugar – Adds moisture and richness; can substitute entirely for granulated sugar if desired.
- Eggs – Bind the ingredients and add richness; use flax eggs for an egg-free option (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tbsp water per egg).
- Milk – Adds moisture and soft texture; non-dairy milk can be used as a substitute.
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- Cream Cheese – A base for the frosting, providing creaminess and flavor; substitute with a vegan cream cheese for a dairy-free alternative.
- Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the frosting and helps achieve the desired consistency.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances the flavor; use pure vanilla extract for the best taste.
- Finely Diced Strawberries – Adds texture and freshness; substitute with other fruits if desired.
For Decoration
- Halved Strawberries – For decorative touch; can use edible flowers or whipped cream instead for a different presentation.
How to Make Strawberry Chocolate Cake
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Prepare Strawberry Jam: Start by combining fresh strawberries, sugar, and a touch of water in a pot. Cook this mixture over medium heat until it thickens, about 15-20 minutes. Allow it to cool before using!
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Preheat Oven: Get your oven ready by preheating it to 350°F (175°C). Meanwhile, prepare two 6-inch round cake pans by lining them with parchment paper.
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Mix Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until evenly blended.
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Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, combine the melted unsalted butter, light oil, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and eggs. Mix until smooth and creamy.
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Create Batter: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined—be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay!
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Fill Cake Pans: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans, ensuring each pan has about 540g of batter. Smooth the tops and bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few crumbs.
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Cool Cakes: Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then, gently transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
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Prepare Frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and remaining unsalted butter together until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, strawberry jam, and vanilla extract, mixing until you reach a smooth consistency.
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Assemble Cake: Level off the tops of the cooled cake layers. Spread the cream cheese frosting and some strawberry jam between each layer. Don’t forget to apply a crumb coat for a clean finish!
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Decorate: Finally, coat the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting, smoothing it out. Garnish the top with halved strawberries for an inviting touch.
Optional: Drizzle a bit of chocolate sauce over the top for an extra indulgence!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These delightful Strawberry Chocolate Cake layers are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cake layers up to 24 hours in advance; simply bake and cool them completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate to maintain freshness. The strawberry jam can also be made up to 3 days ahead—just let it cool and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to assemble, take the layers out, level them if necessary, and spread the jam and cream cheese frosting as directed. This way, you’ll have a stunning dessert ready to impress with minimal effort on the day of serving!
Expert Tips for Strawberry Chocolate Cake
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Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs and butter are at room temperature for better emulsification and a smoother batter.
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Avoid Overmixing: Mix just until combined to prevent a dense cake. A few lumps are perfectly fine with this strawberry chocolate cake!
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Check Oven Temperature: Always use an oven thermometer to confirm your oven’s accuracy; slight temperature variations can affect cake baking times.
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Layer Evenly: To achieve a balanced cake, ensure your batter is divided equally between the pans. A kitchen scale is helpful!
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Cooling Time Matters: Letting the cakes cool fully in the pan helps them maintain moisture—this is crucial for a tender texture.
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Frosting Texture: For a thicker cream cheese frosting, chill it before applying; if it’s too soft, it may slide off the cake layers.
How to Store and Freeze Strawberry Chocolate Cake
Fridge: Keep your strawberry chocolate cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This helps preserve its moist texture and flavor.
Freezer: Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container. Your delicious cake can be frozen for up to 1 month.
Thawing: To enjoy your frozen strawberry chocolate cake, simply transfer it to the fridge and let it thaw overnight. This ensures the best texture and taste.
Reheating: If desired, you can gently warm individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, just until slightly warm—perfect for enjoying that fudgy goodness!
What to Serve with Strawberry Chocolate Cake?
The rich, indulgent layers of this cake create a luscious foundation to build a memorable dessert experience.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, vanilla flavor pairs beautifully with the fudgy chocolate, balancing the sweetness of the cake.
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Fresh Berries: A mix of raspberries and blueberries adds a refreshing tang that brightens every bite, enhancing the fruitiness of the strawberries.
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Whipped Cream: Light and airy, it complements the rich frosting and provides a delightful contrast in texture.
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Chocolate Ganache: A drizzle of warm ganache adds an extra layer of decadence, perfect for chocolate lovers seeking indulgence.
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Coffee: A sturdy brew enhances the chocolate flavors while the warmth creates a comforting ambiance.
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Mint Leaves: A simple garnish of fresh mint can introduce a surprising burst of flavor and color, elevating the dessert’s presentation.
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Champagne: Celebrate with bubbles! A sweet or semi-sweet champagne serves as a festive drink alongside this decadent cake.
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Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries: A beautiful side that echoes the cake’s flavors while offering a delightful, interactive treat for guests.
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Caramel Sauce: A drizzle of warm caramel adds a sticky sweetness that plays off the chocolate and strawberry beautifully.
Strawberry Chocolate Cake Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to explore delicious twists and swaps that will make this cake uniquely yours!
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Lighter Cake: Substitute half the melted butter with applesauce for a healthier alternative without sacrificing flavor.
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Citrus Zest: Add lemon or orange zest into the frosting for a refreshing citrusy brightness that complements the strawberries beautifully.
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Mini Treats: Transform this cake into mini cakes or cupcakes; adjust the baking time to about 20-25 minutes for delightful bite-sized treats.
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Nutty Crunch: Incorporate finely chopped nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, into the batter to add texture and a delightful crunch.
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Gluten-Free Delight: Swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a cake that everyone can enjoy, without missing out on the rich flavor.
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Spiced Up: Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm, cozy spice that enhances the chocolate and strawberry flavors.
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Dairy-Free Option: Utilize coconut oil instead of butter and coconut milk as a substitute for regular milk to create a decadent dairy-free version.
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Chocolate Ganache: Top your cake with a rich chocolate ganache for an indulgent layer of chocolatey goodness that takes it to the next level of deliciousness.
Each of these variations opens up a world of flavors, allowing you to personalize this strawberry chocolate cake to your heart’s delight!
Strawberry Chocolate Cake Recipe FAQs
What’s the best way to select ripe strawberries for this cake?
Absolutely! When choosing strawberries, look for ones that are vibrant red in color, firm to the touch, and free from dark spots or blemishes. The ripest strawberries will have a sweet fragrance and should feel plump. Avoid any that are overly soft or have dull skin, as these can indicate overripeness. If you can, purchase them from a local farmer’s market for the freshest options.
How should I store leftovers of the strawberry chocolate cake?
You can store the strawberry chocolate cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. This way, your delicious creation stays fresh!
Can I freeze the strawberry chocolate cake? If so, how?
Yes, you can freeze the strawberry chocolate cake! First, allow the cake to cool completely after baking. Once cool, wrap the entire cake or individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, making sure no part is exposed to air. Then, place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. Your cake can be frozen for up to 1 month. To enjoy, simply transfer it to the fridge for overnight thawing.
What if my cream cheese frosting is too soft?
Very commonly, a soft frosting can happen if the cream cheese was too warm or if it was beaten too much. If your frosting is too soft to spread, chill it in the fridge for about 30 minutes. If it’s still not thick enough, consider adding more powdered sugar, but do so gradually, mixing between additions until you reach the desired consistency. Just remember to use room temperature ingredients next time for the best results.
Can pets eat strawberry chocolate cake?
No! While plain strawberries can be a treat for dogs, chocolate is toxic to pets, especially dogs and cats. Therefore, it’s essential to keep this cake away from them. If you’re looking to share a sweet moment with your furry friends, consider making a pet-friendly treat tailored for them instead!
What dietary alternatives can I use for this recipe?
You have several options! For a gluten-free version, simply swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend. If you’re looking for a non-dairy alternative, replace dairy milk with almond or coconut milk and use vegetable oil instead of butter. For an egg-free option, flax eggs work beautifully (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg). These swaps ensure that everyone can enjoy this delightful strawberry chocolate cake!
Decadent Strawberry Chocolate Cake You’ll Love to Make
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare Strawberry Jam: Combine fresh strawberries, sugar, and water in a pot. Cook over medium heat until thickened, about 15-20 minutes.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare two 6-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: Whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a bowl.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: Mix melted butter, oil, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and eggs until smooth in another bowl.
- Create Batter: Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture, alternating with milk, until just combined.
- Fill Cake Pans: Pour batter evenly into prepared pans, smoothing the tops, and bake for 40-45 minutes.
- Cool Cakes: Allow cakes to cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare Frosting: Beat cream cheese and butter until creamy, then add powdered sugar, strawberry jam, and vanilla extract.
- Assemble Cake: Level tops of cooled layers, spread frosting and jam between layers, and apply a crumb coat.
- Decorate: Coat top and sides with remaining frosting, smoothing it out, and garnish with halved strawberries.