Chocolate Strawberry Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the rich, velvety flavor of chocolate with the fresh, juicy sweetness of strawberries. This cake is perfect for any occasion, from birthdays to casual gatherings, and is loved for its indulgent taste and the beautiful contrast between the deep chocolate and vibrant red strawberries.
Why Most People Like Chocolate Strawberry Cake
Most people adore Chocolate Strawberry Cake because it strikes the perfect balance between sweetness and richness. The combination of luscious chocolate and fresh strawberries creates a symphony of flavors and textures that is both satisfying and irresistible. The cake is also visually appealing, making it a favorite choice for celebrations.
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Ingredients for Chocolate Strawberry Cake
Cake Ingredients:
– 1 and 3/4 cups (220g) all-purpose flour
– 1 and 1/2 cups (300g) granulated sugar
– 3/4 cup (75g) unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 and 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 and 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 2 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1 cup (240ml) whole milk, at room temperature
– 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 cup (240ml) boiling water
Strawberry Filling:
– 2 cups (300g) fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Chocolate Ganache:
– 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
– 8 oz (225g) semi-sweet chocolate, finely chopped
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Equipment Needed for Making Chocolate Strawberry Cake
– Mixing bowls
– Electric mixer or hand whisk
– Measuring cups and spoons
– 9-inch round cake pans (2)
– Cooling rack
– Serrated knife
– Saucepan
– Spatula
– Cake stand or serving platter
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Full Details Ingredients and Instructions
1. Cake:
1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Add Wet Ingredients: Add the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla to the dry ingredients. Beat on medium speed until smooth and combined.
4. Add Boiling Water: Slowly stir in the boiling water. The batter will be thin, but this is normal.
5. Bake the Cakes: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Cool: Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack to cool completely.
2. Strawberry Filling:
1. Prepare the Strawberries: In a medium bowl, toss the sliced strawberries with sugar and lemon juice. Let them sit for at least 30 minutes to release their juices.
3. Chocolate Ganache:
1. Heat the Cream: In a saucepan, heat the cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer.
2. Melt the Chocolate: Remove from heat and pour the cream over the chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Let it sit for 2-3 minutes, then whisk until smooth and glossy. Allow the ganache to cool slightly before using.
4. Assemble the Cake:
1. Layer the Cake: Place one cake layer on your serving platter. Spread a layer of strawberry filling over the top.
2. Add Ganache: Place the second cake layer on top and pour the chocolate ganache over the entire cake, allowing it to drip down the sides.
3. Decorate: Garnish the top with fresh strawberries.
Additional Tips
– Chill the Cake: For easier slicing, refrigerate the cake for at least an hour before serving.
– Ganache Consistency: If your ganache is too thick, you can gently warm it until it reaches the desired pouring consistency.
– Strawberry Substitution: You can substitute fresh strawberries with frozen ones if needed, but be sure to thaw and drain them before using.
– Cake Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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FAQ about Chocolate Strawberry Cake Recipes
Q: Can I use a different fruit instead of strawberries?
A: Yes, raspberries or cherries work well as substitutes.
Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can bake the cake layers a day in advance and assemble it on the day you plan to serve it.
Q: How do I prevent the cake from being too dense?
A: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature, and don’t over mix the batter to keep the cake light and fluffy.
Q: Can I make the cake gluten-free?
A: Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking.
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This Chocolate Strawberry Cake is sure to be a hit with everyone who tries it! Enjoy baking and indulging in this delightful treat.
