Name: Strawberry Chocolate Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 2 cups granulated sugar; 1.75 cups all-purpose flour; 0.75 cups unsweetened cocoa; 1.5 teaspoons baking powder; 1.5 teaspoons baking soda; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 large eggs (at room temperature); 1 cup whole milk; 0.5 cups vegetable oil; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 cup boiling water (batter will be thin); 1 cup unsalted butter (at room temperature); 2 cups powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (melted and cooled to room temperature); 0.75 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips or chopped chocolate; 0.75 cups heavy cream; 24 ounces strawberries

Introduction to Strawberry Chocolate Cake

Why Strawberry Chocolate Cake is the Ultimate Dessert?

If you're on the hunt for a dessert that strikes the perfect balance between rich and refreshing, look no further than strawberry chocolate cake. This delicious treat combines the deep, indulgent flavors of chocolate cake with the light, fruity notes of fresh strawberries, creating a delightful contrast that's simply irresistible. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just looking to satisfy your sweet tooth, this cake is sure to impress.

The richness of the chocolate cake provides a lush backdrop for the vibrant strawberries, making every slice a harmonious blend of taste and texture. According to experts from thekitchn.com, pairing chocolate with strawberries not only elevates the flavors but also contributes to the aesthetics, with the bright red berries juxtaposing the dark cake beautifully.

This cake is not only delicious but also versatile; it can be dressed up for elegant gatherings or enjoyed as a simple treat with your afternoon coffee. With its moist crumb, creamy frosting, and luscious ganache, it's no wonder why strawberry chocolate cake is often deemed the ultimate dessert experience. So, are you ready to whip up something extraordinary? Let's dive into the recipe!

Ingredients for Strawberry Chocolate Cake

Creating the perfect strawberry chocolate cake involves selecting high-quality ingredients to maximize flavor and texture. Here’s a quick guide to ensure you're all set for baking bliss!

Essential Ingredients for the Cake

To whip up the moist and rich cake base, gather the following:

2 cups granulated sugar: This sweetens the cake and helps with moisture.
1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour: For structure.
¾ cup unsweetened cocoa: The star for that chocolate flavor.
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder & baking soda: For lift.
1 teaspoon salt: To balance sweetness.
2 large eggs: Eggs add richness and moisture.
1 cup whole milk: Enhances texture and flavor.
½ cup vegetable oil: Keeps the cake moist.
2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Adds depth.
1 cup boiling water: Makes for a super moist cake.

Necessary Ingredients for the Frosting

For the luscious frosting that takes this cake to the next level:

1 cup unsalted butter: Must be at room temperature for easy whipping.
2 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and gives that fluffy texture.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Elevates flavor.
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips: Melted, adding that rich chocolatey touch.

Ingredients for the Ganache and Garnish

Finish off your strawberry chocolate cake beautifully with these:

For the Ganache:
¾ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips or chopped chocolate: Essential for the glossy coating.
¾ cup heavy cream: Blends with chocolate to create a smooth finish.
For Garnish:
24 ounces strawberries: Fresh, ripe strawberries for a burst of flavor and color.

With your ingredients lined up, you’re ready to conquer this delightful dessert! Looking for more baking tips? Check out Baker’s Journal for insights on ingredient quality. Happy baking!

Step-by-Step Preparation of Strawberry Chocolate Cake

Prepare your baking pans and oven

Start your journey to luscious strawberry chocolate cake bliss by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cake will bake evenly. While the oven heats up, grab two 9-inch round baking pans and grease them with a bit of butter or cooking spray. Don’t forget to dust them with flour to prevent sticking—this little step goes a long way in ensuring a smooth cake release later!

Mix the dry ingredients for the cake

In a large bowl, it’s time to mix the dry ingredients together. Whisk together:

2 cups granulated sugar
1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon salt

This combination creates the flavorful base of your strawberry chocolate cake. Make sure to whisk until everything is well-combined—no lumps allowed!

Combine the wet ingredients and create batter

Next, add the wet ingredients to your dry mixture. You will need:

2 large eggs at room temperature
1 cup whole milk
½ cup vegetable oil
2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Use a stand mixer to beat this mixture on medium speed for about 2 minutes. Then, you’ll want to carefully stir in 1 cup of boiling water. Don’t worry if the batter looks thin; this will lead to a moist cake.

Bake the cake layers

Evenly pour the batter into your prepared pans. Bake them for 30 to 35 minutes. Keep an eye on them, and perform the toothpick test—insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, your layers are ready! Let them cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before turning them out onto wire racks to cool completely.

Prepare the frosting while the cake cools

While the cake layers cool, let’s whip up the frosting. Use the stand mixer to beat:

1 cup unsalted butter at room temperature
2 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Mix until fluffy before slowly drizzling in 1 cup of melted semi-sweet chocolate chips, ensuring the frosting is rich and creamy.

Make the chocolate ganache

For the ganache, place ¾ cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips in a medium bowl. Heat ¾ cup of heavy cream in a saucepan until it bubbles, then pour it over the chocolate. Allow it to rest for 30 seconds before stirring it into a silky smooth ganache. Let it cool for about 5 minutes.

Assemble the cake with frosting and strawberries

Take one cooled cake layer and place it on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of frosting across the top, then add 1 cup of sliced strawberries. Gently place the second cake layer on top and press down slightly to secure it.

Drizzle with ganache and finish with garnishes

Now comes the fun part! Pour the chocolate ganache over the top of your assembled cake, letting it flow down the sides. For the final touch, take 10 fresh strawberries, remove their stems, and place them decoratively on top.

Slice up your strawberry chocolate cake and watch it disappear—it’s as delicious as it is beautiful! Enjoy the indulgence and the smiles it brings.

Variations on Strawberry Chocolate Cake

Vegan Strawberry Chocolate Cake

Looking for a vegan twist on this delectable strawberry chocolate cake? Simply substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water for each egg) and use almond or coconut milk instead of whole milk. For the butter in the frosting, opt for a plant-based butter alternative and ensure your chocolate chips are dairy-free. With these simple swaps, you can enjoy a delicious cake that caters to your vegan friends and family!

Gluten-free Strawberry Chocolate Cake

If gluten is an issue, don't worry! You can create a gluten-free strawberry chocolate cake using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour. Additionally, check that your baking powder is gluten-free, and you’ll be on your way to a beautifully moist cake that everyone will love. This gluten-free version maintains the rich flavors associated with the classic, ensuring nobody misses out on dessert joy.

For more tips, check out resources from the Gluten Intolerance Group and Vegan Society.

Cooking Tips and Notes for Strawberry Chocolate Cake

Tips for Achieving the Perfect Texture

To ensure your strawberry chocolate cake turns out moist and tender, make sure your eggs and milk are at room temperature before mixing. This helps incorporate air into the batter, resulting in a light texture. Don't skip the boiling water step—it helps the cocoa bloom, enhancing the flavor while keeping the cake moist. Finally, avoid overmixing once you combine the wet and dry ingredients; mix until just combined for the best results.

Notes on Ingredient Substitutions if Needed

If you're missing any ingredients, don’t worry! You can substitute vegetable oil with melted coconut oil for a unique flavor. For a plant-based option, replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg). If you don't have whole milk, any non-dairy milk or a milk substitute like buttermilk or yogurt works too. Get creative and make this strawberry chocolate cake your own! For more tips on ingredient substitutions, check out The Kitchn.

Serving Suggestions for Strawberry Chocolate Cake

Ideal occasions for serving

This strawberry chocolate cake is perfect for a variety of celebrations. Think birthday parties, anniversaries, or even casual get-togethers with friends. Its delightful blend of rich chocolate and fresh strawberries makes it a delightful centerpiece at gatherings, leaving guests eagerly anticipating their slices. If you're looking to impress a date or simply indulge on a cozy night in, this cake makes any moment feel special.

Best accompaniments to enhance flavors

To elevate the strawberry chocolate cake experience, consider serving it with:

Whipped cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light, airy contrast.
Fresh berries: Placing extra strawberries on the side not only looks beautiful but also complements the flavors harmoniously.
Coffee or tea: Pairing with a rich coffee or herbal tea enhances the cake's rich notes while providing a delightful balance.
Ice cream: Vanilla or even strawberry ice cream can turn this indulgence into a decadent dessert!

Explore more dessert pairing ideas on Serious Eats and make your cake experience extraordinary!

Time Breakdown for Strawberry Chocolate Cake

Preparation Time

Get your kitchen ready! You’ll need about 20 minutes to gather your ingredients and whip up the cake batter and frosting. This part is all about mixing, measuring, and getting your hands a little dirty—which is half the fun!

Baking Time

Once your batter is ready, it’s time for the main act: 30 to 35 minutes in the oven. This is when that incredible aroma of chocolate wafts through your home, making it hard to resist sneaking a taste!

Total Time

From start to finish, your strawberry chocolate cake will take approximately 55 minutes. In just under an hour, you’ll be on your way to serving a decadent dessert that'll impress everyone at your table. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in!

Want to see how easy it is? Check out this guide on baking essentials to make sure you’re all set! Happy baking!

Nutritional Facts for Strawberry Chocolate Cake

Calories per slice

Indulging in a slice of strawberry chocolate cake will reward you with approximately 350 calories. While it’s a delightful treat, remember to savor each bite!

Sugar content

This decadent dessert contains about 28 grams of sugar per slice. For a sweet finish, it’s best enjoyed in moderation, especially considering its rich flavor.

Key vitamins and minerals

The addition of strawberries not only enhances the taste but also boosts the nutrient profile. You'll find vitamins C and K, along with essential minerals like potassium and folate. This makes your strawberry chocolate cake not just a dessert but a tasty way to sneak in some nutrients!

For more insights on cake nutrition, you can check out Healthline.

FAQs about Strawberry Chocolate Cake

Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! The strawberry chocolate cake can be made a day in advance. Just assemble it and refrigerate until you're ready to serve. If you're concerned about sogginess, consider frosting it the day you plan to serve, allowing the cake to retain its moisture while enhancing its flavor.

What’s the best way to store leftover cake?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it fresh longer, refrigerate it. Make sure to let the cake come to room temperature before serving for the best taste. You can also freeze it for up to three months—just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil.

Can I customize the flavors or mix-ins?
Definitely! Feel free to swap the strawberries for other fruits like raspberries or cherries, or try adding nuts or chocolate chunks for extra texture. The strawberry chocolate cake is versatile and can adapt to your taste preferences—get creative! For more inspiration, check out options on Food Network.

Conclusion on Strawberry Chocolate Cake

Why you need to try this homemade dessert right now!

Indulging in this strawberry chocolate cake is a must! The rich cocoa, paired with juicy strawberries, creates a delightful harmony of flavors. Whether it's for a special occasion or just to treat yourself, this dessert promises smiles all around. Trust us, your taste buds will thank you!