Strawberry Chocolate Cake is the perfect dessert for those special family gatherings or any time you want to whip up something deliciously unforgettable. This Southern-inspired treat marries the rich indulgence of chocolate with the bright freshness of strawberries, creating a cake that’s as visually stunning as it is tasty. It’s an easy way to impress friends and family, especially during spring and summer when strawberries are in season.
Why Make This Recipe
This cake is a delightful combination of flavors that makes it hard to resist. Not only is it visually appealing with its luscious layers, but the taste is pure comfort food. Whether it’s a birthday party, a holiday celebration, or just a random Wednesday, this Strawberry Chocolate Cake brings joy to any occasion. Plus, it’s a budget-friendly treat that can easily serve a crowd.
"Every slice is a dreamy balance of chocolate and strawberry—it’s my new go-to for potlucks!"
How to Make Strawberry Chocolate Cake
Getting started on this Strawberry Chocolate Cake is a breeze! You’ll mix a rich, chocolatey batter infused with fresh strawberries, then top it off with a creamy strawberry cream cheese frosting. Trust me, your kitchen will smell divine!
Gather These Items
To whip up this delightful cake, you’ll need:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups sugar
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 cup homemade strawberry jam
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup strawberry puree
Feel free to swap out ingredients as needed—almond milk works well instead of whole milk or you can use coconut oil for a dairy-free version!
Directions to Follow
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla to the dry ingredients and mix until well combined.
- Gradually mix in the boiling water until the batter is smooth.
- Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
- Once cooled, place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a layer of strawberry jam and sliced strawberries over it.
- Place the second cake layer on top and repeat the filling if desired.
- For the frosting, beat together cream cheese and butter until creamy.
- Gradually add powdered sugar and strawberry puree until the frosting is smooth and spreadable.
- Frost the top and sides of the cake with the strawberry cream cheese frosting.
- Decorate with more fresh strawberries, if desired.
- Slice and serve.
Each step is designed to ensure your cake turns out perfect every time, full of flavor and delight!
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Imagine serving this beauty at your next family dinner, with a side of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. You could even drizzle some chocolate sauce for an extra special touch. Serve it with freshly brewed coffee for an afternoon treat or alongside a refreshing glass of sweet tea on a warm day.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Got leftovers? You’re in luck! This cake keeps well in the fridge for up to a week. Just ensure to store it in an airtight container to maintain its moistness. If you want to enjoy it longer, you can also freeze individual slices. Wrap them well in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months!
Helpful Cooking Tips
To make your cake extra moist, ensure your ingredients are at room temperature before mixing. Also, avoid overmixing the batter; this helps maintain that lovely, delicate texture.
Recipe Variations
Feeling adventurous? Consider adding a layer of chocolate ganache between the cake layers or even swapping out the strawberry jam for raspberry. You could also add some chopped nuts for a delightful crunch!
Common Questions
Q: How about gluten-free options?
A: You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure your other ingredients are gluten-free!
Q: Can I make this cake in advance?
A: Absolutely! Make the cake and frost it the day before. Just store it in the fridge in an airtight container.
Q: What’s the prep time and cook time?
A: Prep time is about 20 minutes, and the baking time is around 30-35 minutes. Perfect for a quick dessert on a busy day!
There you have it—your guide to creating a rich, delicious Strawberry Chocolate Cake that’s sure to be a hit for any occasion. Enjoy baking, and even more, enjoy sharing with family and friends!