Decadent Chocolate Strawberry Cake -

Indulging in a slice of Decadent Chocolate Strawberry Cake is a delightful experience filled with rich flavors and textures. This cake combines a moist chocolate cake with a luscious dark chocolate ganache, perfectly complemented by fresh strawberries. It’s a showstopper for any occasion, from birthdays to special dinners. Follow this easy-to-follow recipe and impress your family and friends.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

This Decadent Chocolate Strawberry Cake is not just visually stunning, but it also boasts an explosion of flavors that will leave everyone wanting more. The contrasting textures of the fluffy cake, silky ganache, and juicy strawberries create a unique dessert experience. Plus, this recipe is straightforward and allows for flexibility in decorating and serving, making it perfect for both beginners and seasoned bakers.

Pro Tips for Making Decadent Chocolate Strawberry Cake

Use Quality Ingredients: The quality of chocolate and cocoa powder will significantly affect the flavor, so opt for high-quality brands.

Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your eggs and milk are at room temperature for better batter consistency.
Don’t Overmix: Mix until just combined to keep the cake light and fluffy.
Cool Completely: Allow the cake layers to cool completely to prevent melting the ganache when assembling.

Chill Before Serving: Chill the cake for 30 minutes after icing for a firmer ganache, making it easier to slice.

Ingredients

Let’s gather the ingredients needed to create this stunning cake:

For the Cake:

2 cups all-purpose flour

1¾ cups sugar
¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
2 tsp baking powder

1½ tsp baking soda
1 tsp salt
2 large eggs

1 cup milk
½ cup vegetable oil
2 tsp vanilla extract

1 cup boiling water

For the Ganache:

1 cup heavy cream
8 oz dark chocolate, chopped

Topping:

Fresh strawberries, for decoration

Instructions

Now, let’s dive into the steps to create this Decadent Chocolate Strawberry Cake.

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.

Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
Step 3: Add the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Beat the mixture on medium speed for 2 minutes until smooth.
Step 4: Carefully stir in the boiling water. The batter will be quite thin, but this is normal.

Step 5: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.

Step 8: While the cakes are cooling, prepare the ganache. Heat the heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat until it just begins to simmer.
Step 9: Pour the hot cream over the chopped chocolate in a bowl. Let it sit for 1 minute, then stir until you achieve a smooth and glossy ganache.
Step 10: Allow the ganache to cool slightly until it thickens.

Step 11: To assemble the cake, place one layer of the cake on a serving plate. Spread a layer of ganache on top.
Step 12: Add the second layer of cake on top and pour the remaining ganache over the cake, allowing it to drip down the sides.
Step 13: Decorate the top with fresh strawberries as desired.

Step 14: For best results, chill the cake in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I substitute the eggs in the recipe?

Yes, you can use unsweetened applesauce or a commercial egg replacer to make it egg-free.

2. How do I store leftover cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

3. Can I use a different type of chocolate for the ganache?

Yes, you can use semi-sweet or milk chocolate for a sweeter ganache.

4. How can I make the cake more decadent?

Add chocolate chips or chunks to the batter before baking for an extra treat.

5. Is this cake suitable for freezing?

Yes, you can freeze the un-frosted cakes for up to 3 months. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap.

Conclusion

The Decadent Chocolate Strawberry Cake is a sensational treat that combines rich chocolate flavors with the freshness of strawberries. Ideal for celebrations or a simple dessert, following this recipe will ensure a delicious cake that is sure to impress. Whether you’re slicing into it for a special occasion or simply indulging in a personal treat, this cake is sure to satisfy your cravings. Enjoy your baking adventure!