Strawberry Chocolate Cake

There’s something truly magical about a Strawberry Chocolate Cake. Imagine the rich, decadent chocolate coupled with the fresh, sweet flavor of strawberries; it’s a combination that delights the senses! This delightful dessert is perfect for any occasion, from birthday parties to romantic dinners.

Why Make This Recipe

You may wonder why you should make a Strawberry Chocolate Cake. The answer is simple: it brings together two beloved flavors that complement each other beautifully. Beyond its taste, this cake is visually stunning, making it an excellent centerpiece for gatherings. It’s also versatile, allowing you to serve it at a casual brunch, a formal event, or even as a sweet treat on a quiet evening at home. Plus, the process of making this cake lets you indulge in the joy of baking, providing a therapeutic escape in the kitchen!

How to Make Strawberry Chocolate Cake

Creating a Strawberry Chocolate Cake combines several elements, including a rich chocolate cake, a luscious strawberry jam, and a creamy strawberry cream cheese frosting. Each layer contributes to the delightful final product, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. Let’s dive into the details of what you will need and how to create this masterpiece.

Ingredients

For the Strawberry Jam:

• 500 g strawberries (fresh or frozen)
• 50 g granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon water

For the Chocolate Cake:

• 190 g all-purpose flour
• 75 g natural cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 115 g unsalted butter (melted)
• 100 g light-tasting oil
• 100 g granulated sugar
• 100 g brown sugar
• 2 large eggs (room temperature)
• 330 g milk (room temperature)

For the Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 250 g cream cheese (softened to room temperature)
• 115 g unsalted butter (softened to room temperature)
• 100 g powdered sugar
• 70 g strawberry jam (from above)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 200 g strawberries (finely diced)

For Decoration:

• 7 strawberries (halved)

Directions

Step 1: Make the Strawberry Jam

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the strawberries, sugar, and water.
2. Cook for about 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally until the strawberries break down and the mixture thickens.
3. Once ready, remove it from heat and let it cool. You can blend it for a smoother consistency, if desired.

Step 2: Prepare the Chocolate Cake

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In another large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, oil, and both sugars. Mix until well combined.
4. Add the eggs and milk to the butter-sugar mixture, mixing until fully incorporated.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until smooth.
6. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Step 3: Make the Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting

1. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar and mix until combined.
3. Stir in the strawberry jam, vanilla extract, and diced strawberries until evenly mixed.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

1. Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate or cake stand.
2. Spread a generous amount of the strawberry cream cheese frosting over the top.
3. Place the second cake layer on top and frost the entire cake. Use an offset spatula for smooth edges.
4. Garnish with halved strawberries on top for a beautiful finish.

Pro Tips for Success Strawberry Chocolate Cake

1. Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your eggs, milk, and cream cheese are at room temperature; this ensures a smoother batter and frosting.
2. Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, gently mix until just combined to avoid dense cake.
3. Cool Completely: Allow the cakes to cool completely before frosting to avoid melting the frosting.
4. Use Quality Cocoa Powder: The flavor of your chocolate cake heavily relies on the quality of the cocoa powder, so go for a good quality brand.
5. Adjust Sweetness: Taste your frosting and adjust the sugar according to your preference for sweetness.
6. Chill Before Serving: Letting your frosted cake chill in the fridge for about an hour can help the layers set, making it easier to slice!

Flavor Variations Strawberry Chocolate Cake

1. Nutty Surprise: Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the chocolate cake batter for a delightful crunch.
2. Mint Chocolate Twist: Incorporate a few drops of peppermint extract into the chocolate batter or frosting for a refreshing mint flavor.
3. Dark Chocolate Delight: Replace the milk chocolate cocoa powder with dark chocolate for a richer chocolate flavor.
4. Spiced Cake: Add a pinch of cinnamon or even espresso powder to the chocolate batter for added depth.
5. Lemon Zest: Incorporate some lemon zest into your cream cheese frosting for a citrusy complement to strawberries.

Serving Suggestions Strawberry Chocolate Cake

This cake is already a showstopper, but consider serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to elevate the experience. Pair it with a glass of fresh strawberry lemonade or a cup of coffee for a well-rounded dessert experience. For special occasions, consider layering additional fresh strawberries between the cake layers or creating mini cupcakes to share!

Storage and Freezing Instructions Strawberry Chocolate Cake

To store your Strawberry Chocolate Cake, keep it covered at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for about a week. If you need to freeze the cake, wrap the unfrosted cake layers tightly in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Frosting can also be frozen separately. When you’re ready to enjoy your cake, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, frost it, and serve.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

| Nutrient | Amount |
|——————–|————–|
| Calories | 450 |
| Protein | 6 g |
| Carbohydrates | 62 g |
| Fat | 20 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sodium | 200 mg |

FAQ About Strawberry Chocolate Cake

Can I use frozen strawberries for the jam?

Yes, frozen strawberries work well for making the jam. Just ensure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before cooking them. This will help achieve a good consistency for your strawberry jam.

How can I make a gluten-free version of this cake?

To make a gluten-free Strawberry Chocolate Cake, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. It typically works as a direct replacement. Be sure to check your baking powder and baking soda for gluten-free certification to ensure it’s safe for your needs.

Can I use whipped cream instead of cream cheese frosting?

Absolutely! If you prefer a lighter topping, whipped cream can replace the cream cheese frosting. Just whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form, then spread it on the cake.

How do I prevent my cake from sticking to the pan?

To prevent sticking, make sure to grease your cake pans thoroughly with butter or non-stick spray and dust them lightly with flour. Alternatively, you can line the bottom with parchment paper for an easy release.

Is it possible to make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cake layers a day in advance. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap after cooling and store them at room temperature or in the refrigerator. Frost the cake closer to serving time for the best flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

Making a Strawberry Chocolate Cake is not just about creating a delicious dessert; it’s about the joy of combining two exceptional flavors that bring smiles to faces. With its beautiful layers, delectable frosting, and refreshing fruit, this cake is bound to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Don’t be afraid to experiment with flavors or make it your own. Happy baking!

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