Chocolate Strawberry Cake

Name: Chocolate Strawberry Cake
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 65 min
Ingredients: 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour; 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar; ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder; 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 large eggs; 1 cup whole milk; ½ cup vegetable oil; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 cup boiling water; 2 cups fresh strawberries (sliced); 1 cup heavy cream; 8 ounces semi-sweet chocolate (chopped)

If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert, this chocolate strawberry cake is sure to impress. Featuring moist layers of chocolate cake, rich chocolate ganache, and fresh strawberries, it’s a delightful combination of flavors and textures. Perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or any special occasion, this cake is not only delicious but also visually stunning, making it a must-try for chocolate lovers everywhere.

Ingredients

– 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
– 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
– ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
– 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup whole milk
– ½ cup vegetable oil
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 cup boiling water
– 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 8 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe serves 10-12 people. Preparation time is approximately 30 minutes, with a cooking time of about 30-35 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (1 slice) contains approximately 350 calories, 15g fat, 52g carbohydrates, and 4g protein. This is based on a standard slice from a 10-inch cake.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla to the dry ingredients. Mix until well combined.
4. Carefully stir in boiling water until the batter is smooth.
5. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
8. For the ganache, heat the heavy cream until just simmering, then pour over the chopped chocolate. Let sit for 5 minutes and stir until smooth.
9. Once the cakes are cool, place one layer on a serving plate, spread a layer of ganache, and top with sliced strawberries.
10. Place the second layer on top, pour the remaining ganache over the cake, and decorate with more strawberries.

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version. Additionally, use almond milk instead of whole milk for a dairy-free option, and opt for dark chocolate to enhance the richness.

Serving and Pairings

This chocolate strawberry cake pairs beautifully with vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For drinks, consider serving it with a glass of milk, coffee, or a fruity red wine.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can freeze the cake for up to 2 months; just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap before placing it in a freezer bag. To enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight.

Cooking Mistakes

– Avoid overmixing the batter to prevent a dense cake.
– Ensure your oven is properly calibrated for accurate baking times.
– Don’t rush the cooling process; allow cakes to cool completely before frosting.
– Use high-quality chocolate for the ganache for better flavor.
– Make sure to grease pans thoroughly to prevent sticking.
– Check cake doneness with a toothpick to avoid underbaking.

Helpful Tips

– Use room temperature ingredients for better mixing.
– Decorate the cake right before serving to keep strawberries fresh.
– Experiment with different fruits like raspberries or blueberries for variation.
– For extra flavor, add a splash of espresso to the batter.

FAQs

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cakes a day in advance. Just wrap them in plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator. Frost the cake on the day you plan to serve it for the best texture.

What can I use instead of fresh strawberries?

You can use frozen berries, but make sure to thaw and drain them well. Alternatively, consider using other fresh fruits like raspberries or cherries for a different flavor profile.

How do I make the ganache thicker?

To thicken ganache, use less heavy cream or add more chocolate. Allow the ganache to cool slightly before pouring it over the cake to achieve a thicker consistency.

Can I decorate the cake with fondant?

Yes, you can use fondant to decorate this cake. Just ensure the ganache has cooled completely before applying the fondant for better adherence.

Is this cake suitable for kids?

Absolutely! This cake is a hit with kids and can be made even more fun with colorful sprinkles or themed decorations.

Conclusion

This chocolate strawberry cake is not just a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. Whether it’s for a special occasion or a casual gathering, this cake is sure to delight everyone. With its rich chocolate layers and fresh strawberry topping, it’s a perfect way to celebrate love and sweetness in every bite.