Strawberry Chocolate Cake

Name: Strawberry Chocolate Cake
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour; 1 ¾ cups sugar; ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 ½ tsp baking powder; 1 ½ tsp baking soda; 1 tsp salt; 2 large eggs; 1 cup whole milk; ½ cup vegetable oil; 2 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup boiling water; 2 cups fresh strawberries, diced; ½ cup sugar; 1 tbsp cornstarch; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 3 ½ cups powdered sugar; ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; ¼ cup heavy cream; 1 tsp vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Experience the delightful fusion of rich chocolate and sweet strawberries with this Strawberry Chocolate Cake recipe. This moist, decadent cake features layers of velvety chocolate sponge, luscious strawberry filling, and a creamy frosting that’s perfect for any occasion. Either as a romantic dessert or a festive celebration centerpiece, this cake is sure to impress and satisfy your sweet tooth!

Created by

Ethan

Last updated on 2025-11-13T11:19:13.193Z

The Strawberry Chocolate Cake is a classic dessert that combines the rich flavor of chocolate with the sweet taste of strawberries, making it a favorite among many dessert lovers.

Delicious Layers of Flavor

This Strawberry Chocolate Cake is not just a feast for the eyes; it is an experience for the senses. The combination of moist chocolate sponge and sweet strawberry filling creates a perfect balance of flavors. As you take a bite, the rich chocolate melts in your mouth while the fresh strawberries offer a delightful contrast that elevates the taste to another level. Each layer contributes to a uniquely satisfying experience that will have everyone coming back for more.

The chocolate cake layers are made using high-quality cocoa powder, ensuring that each piece is full of deep, chocolatey flavor. The addition of boiling water in the batter achieves an incredible moisture content, leading to a soft, airy texture. On the other hand, the strawberry filling bursts with fruity sweetness, thanks to fresh strawberries, sugar, and a touch of lemon juice, balancing the richness of chocolate perfectly.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you're celebrating a birthday, anniversary, or simply enjoying a weekend treat, this cake is a showstopper. Its layered design makes it the ideal centerpiece for any dessert table, capturing the attention of all guests. Decorating the cake with fresh strawberries on top adds a touch of elegance, making it suitable for formal events or casual gatherings alike.

Additionally, it is a versatile dessert that can be enjoyed year-round. The sweet strawberries remind you of warmer days, making it a favored choice for summer occasions. Meanwhile, the rich chocolate flavor makes it comforting during cooler months, proving that this cake truly shines on any occasion.

Tips for Success

To ensure that your Strawberry Chocolate Cake turns out perfectly, it's essential to measure your ingredients accurately. Baking is a science, and even a small change in measurements can affect the final result. Using a kitchen scale can help achieve precision. Additionally, make sure to allow the cake layers to cool completely before frosting to avoid any melting that could ruin your masterpiece.

When making the strawberry filling, patience is key. Allow the mixture to cook long enough for it to thicken properly; this will prevent it from soaking into the cake and making it too soggy. Lastly, feel free to experiment with different decorating techniques using chocolate shavings or whipped cream to add a personal touch to your cake.

Ingredients

For the Cake

1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
1 ¾ cups sugar
¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 ½ tsp baking powder
1 ½ tsp baking soda
1 tsp salt
2 large eggs
1 cup whole milk
½ cup vegetable oil
2 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup boiling water

For the Strawberry Filling

2 cups fresh strawberries, diced
½ cup sugar
1 tbsp cornstarch
1 tbsp lemon juice

For the Frosting

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
3 ½ cups powdered sugar
½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
¼ cup heavy cream
1 tsp vanilla extract

Make sure to use fresh strawberries for the best flavor!

Steps

Prepare the Cake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.

In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix well.

Add the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes. Stir in boiling water until well blended.

Pour the batter into the prepared pans and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Make the Strawberry Filling

In a saucepan, combine the diced strawberries, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat until the mixture thickens and bubbles, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.

Prepare the Frosting

In a bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and cocoa powder, then mix in the heavy cream and vanilla extract until smooth.

Assemble the Cake

Once the cake layers are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread the strawberry filling on top, then place the second layer on top. Frost the top and sides of the cake with the chocolate frosting.

Let the cake sit for a bit before slicing to allow the flavors to meld.

Storage and Shelf Life

To store your Strawberry Chocolate Cake, place it in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. If you live in a particularly warm climate, consider refrigerating it to preserve its freshness. The cake can last up to three days at room temperature or up to one week in the refrigerator. Just remember to let it come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

If you want to prepare the cake in advance, the layers can be baked ahead of time and frozen. Wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to use, simply thaw the layers in the refrigerator overnight and assemble as directed.

Customization Ideas

This recipe serves as a great base for experimentation and personalization. For those who prefer a fruity twist, consider adding layers of other berries such as raspberries or blueberries. Alternatively, add a dash of almond extract to the cake batter to elevate the flavor profile. You can also experiment with different frosting techniques, such as adding chocolate ganache or using whipped cream for a lighter touch.

For those with dietary restrictions, you can make adjustments to the recipe. Substitute gluten-free flour for all-purpose flour or use non-dairy milk and butter to make it vegan-friendly. The beauty of this cake lies in its versatility, allowing you to tailor it to fit your tastes and dietary needs.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but make sure to thaw and drain them well before using.

→ How should I store the cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.