Strawberry Chocolate Cake

Name: Strawberry Chocolate Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour; 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar; 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; 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon lemon juice; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/4 cup milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Indulge in the perfect blend of rich chocolate and fresh strawberries with this delicious Strawberry Chocolate Cake.

Created by

Phoebe Drake

Last updated on 2025-12-21T04:30:58.765Z

This Strawberry Chocolate Cake combines the richness of chocolate with the freshness of strawberries, making it a perfect dessert for any occasion.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh strawberries
Moist texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence

      

The Perfect Combination of Flavors

When it comes to desserts, few combinations are as delightful as chocolate and strawberries. This Strawberry Chocolate Cake showcases the rich, decadent flavor of chocolate, perfectly complemented by the sweetness and freshness of ripe strawberries. The layers of chocolate cake are moist and airy, while the strawberry filling adds a burst of fruity flavor that elevates each bite. This cake is not just a treat for the taste buds but also a visual feast, making it the centerpiece of any gathering.

The contrast between the dense chocolate and the light, juicy strawberries creates a harmonious balance that's hard to resist. Each slice reveals a luscious filling that seeps into the cake, ensuring that every bite is packed with flavor. This cake is perfect for anniversaries, birthdays, or simply as a special dessert for a weekend family dinner. Whether you’re a chocolate lover or a fruit enthusiast, this cake is sure to satisfy.

Baking Tips for Success

To ensure your Strawberry Chocolate Cake turns out perfectly, pay attention to the quality of your ingredients. Use high-quality cocoa powder and fresh strawberries for the best flavor. When measuring your flour, spoon it into the measuring cup and level it off with a knife to avoid using too much, which can lead to a dense cake. Also, let your eggs and milk come to room temperature before mixing; this helps create a smoother batter and a lighter cake.

Another important tip is to avoid overmixing the batter once you've added the boiling water. Stir just until combined to maintain the cake's light texture. As you bake, keep an eye on the cakes to ensure they don’t overbake, as this can dry them out. Finally, allow the cakes to cool completely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting. With these tips, you’ll achieve a perfectly fluffy and moist cake.

Serving and Storing

Once you’ve assembled your Strawberry Chocolate Cake, it’s time to serve! This cake is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will continue to meld, making each subsequent slice even more delicious. For a special touch, consider serving slices with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to enhance the chocolate and strawberry flavors.

If you’re planning to make the cake ahead of time, you can bake the layers a day in advance. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them at room temperature until you’re ready to assemble and frost. This cake also freezes beautifully; just make sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight for the best texture.

Ingredients

For the Cake

1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
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

For the Strawberry Filling

2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon lemon juice

For the Frosting

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
3 1/2 cups powdered sugar
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 cup milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Make sure to prepare all ingredients before starting the recipe.

Instructions

Prepare the Cake Batter

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

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract. Mix well until combined. Gradually stir in the boiling water until the batter is smooth.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans. Bake for 30 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 a wire rack to cool completely.

Prepare the Strawberry Filling

In a bowl, combine the sliced strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Let it sit for about 15 minutes to release the juices.

Make the Frosting

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and cocoa powder, alternating with the milk, and beat until smooth. Add vanilla extract and mix well.

Assemble the Cake

Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of the strawberry filling on top. Place the second cake layer on top and frost the entire cake with the chocolate frosting.

Decorate with additional strawberries if desired.

Once assembled, allow the cake to set for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Nutritional Information

This Strawberry Chocolate Cake is an indulgent dessert that, while rich, can still be enjoyed in moderation. Each slice provides a delightful mix of carbohydrates, fats, and sugars. Strawberries add a boost of vitamin C and antioxidants, making your treat a bit healthier. If you're looking to make a lighter version, consider substituting some of the sugar with a natural sweetener or using whole-grain flour instead of all-purpose flour.

For those watching their calorie intake, slice the cake into smaller portions or serve it alongside fresh fruit. It’s all about balance, and this cake can certainly fit into a variety of diets when enjoyed thoughtfully.

Variations and Customizations

While this Strawberry Chocolate Cake is already a star, you can customize it to suit your taste preferences. Consider adding a layer of whipped cream between the cake layers for added richness or swapping the chocolate frosting for a cream cheese frosting for a tangy contrast. You can also experiment with different fruits; raspberries or cherries can provide a delicious twist if strawberries aren't in season.

For a more intense chocolate flavor, try adding chocolate chips to the batter or using dark cocoa powder. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to make this cake your own while still keeping the essence of the classic combination of chocolate and strawberries.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries instead?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but make sure to thaw and drain them to avoid excess moisture.

→ How do I store the leftover cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ How can I make the frosting richer?

You can add melted chocolate to the frosting for a deeper chocolate flavor.