Hey there, cake lovers! Ella here, bringing you my absolute favorite summer dessert recipe. Today, we’re diving into the world of rich chocolate and juicy strawberries with my irresistible Chocolate & Strawberry Layer Cake. This showstopper is perfect for birthdays, picnics, or just because you deserve something special!
Why You’ll Love This Chocolate & Strawberry Layer Cake
- Moist, chocolatey cake layers
- Fresh, vibrant strawberry filling
- Smooth chocolate ganache frosting
- Stunning presentation
- Perfect balance of flavors
Let’s get baking!
Ingredients
For the Chocolate Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup hot water
For the Strawberry Filling:
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
For the Chocolate Ganache Frosting:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 16 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch cake pans.
- In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, cocoa, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes.
- Stir in hot water. The batter will be thin, but don’t worry!
- Pour into prepared pans and bake for 30-35 minutes, until a toothpick comes out clean.
- While the cakes cool, make the strawberry filling. Combine strawberries, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat until thickened, about 5 minutes. Cool completely.
- For the ganache, heat cream until just simmering. Pour over chocolate chips, let sit for 5 minutes, then stir until smooth. Add butter and stir until incorporated. Chill until spreadable.
- Assembly time! Place one cake layer on a plate, spread with half the strawberry filling. Top with the second layer and remaining filling. Frost the entire cake with the chocolate ganache.
- Chill for at least 1 hour before serving. Enjoy!
Tips for the Perfect Chocolate & Strawberry Layer Cake
- Use room temperature ingredients for the cake batter
- Don’t overmix the batter – this can lead to a tough cake
- Let the cakes cool completely before assembling
- For extra strawberry flavor, add some finely chopped strawberries to the cake batter
There you have it, friends! My go-to Chocolate & Strawberry Layer Cake recipe. It’s the perfect blend of rich chocolate and fresh, tangy strawberries. Trust me, this cake will have everyone asking for seconds (and the recipe)!