Chocolate Strawberry Layer Cake Recipe

If you’re searching for the ultimate celebration treat, this Chocolate Strawberry Layer Cake Recipe is pure happiness in every slice. It features moist chocolate cake stacked with a dreamy strawberry-speckled whipped cream, all blanketed in a glossy, rich ganache and crowned with juicy strawberries. The combination of chocolate and fresh berries is timeless, but here it feels extra-special: soft, decadent, and visually spectacular. Whether you’re baking for a birthday, Valentine’s Day, or just because, this is the showstopper you’ll come back to again and again—and your friends will beg you for the recipe!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every part of this Chocolate Strawberry Layer Cake Recipe is thoughtfully crafted with simple pantry basics and a handful of fresh ingredients. Each one plays a starring role: from the deep cocoa of the cake to the freshness of real strawberries. Here’s what you’ll need and why it matters:

• All-purpose flour: Gives the cake its tender yet sturdy structure, perfect for building layers.
• Sugar: Sweetens the batter and helps create a moist, soft crumb.
• Cocoa powder: Deepens the flavor and gives the cake that unmistakable chocolate intensity.
• Baking powder & baking soda: These leaveners help the cake rise, keeping it light and fluffy.
• Salt: Just a pinch enhances the richness and balances all the flavors.
• Eggs: Bind everything together and add moisture for a silky texture.
• Vegetable oil: Ensures the cake stays extra moist, even after refrigeration.
• Vanilla extract: Adds a subtle warmth and makes the chocolate flavors pop.
• Milk: Softens the crumb, lending lightness to each layer.
• Hot water: Makes the cocoa bloom for a deep, complex chocolate flavor.
• Heavy cream (for filling & ganache): Whips up into a luscious strawberry cream and creates that irresistible, glossy ganache.
• Powdered sugar: Sweetens the cream without making it grainy.
• Fresh strawberries: Finely chopped for the filling and whole for decoration—these bring brightness and juicy bursts throughout the cake.
• Dark or semi-sweet chocolate: Melts smoothly into the ganache, creating an elegant finish over the cake.
• Decoration topper: A sweet final flourish; choose a whimsical candle or topper to match your celebration!

How to Make Chocolate Strawberry Layer Cake Recipe

Step 1: Bake the Chocolate Cakes

Begin your Chocolate Strawberry Layer Cake Recipe adventure by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and preparing two 8-inch cake pans—greased and lined for easy removal. In a large bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This first step is key for a light cake, as sifting prevents lumps and ensures even mixing. Add in the eggs, oil, vanilla, and milk, stirring to create a smooth batter. When you pour in the hot water last, don’t be surprised if the mixture thins out; that’s what makes the cake so moist and tender. Divide evenly between the pans and bake for about 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool fully before you move to the fun part: assembling!

Step 2: Make the Strawberry Cream

While the cake layers cool, whip up a batch of ethereal strawberry cream. Using cold heavy cream, powdered sugar, and a touch of vanilla, beat until soft peaks form (no need to go too stiff, or the filling can turn a bit buttery). Gently fold in finely chopped strawberries, marbling the cream with pink, juicy specks. This is where the cake really comes alive—keep the filling cold until you’re ready to assemble for the freshest flavor and best texture.

Step 3: Prepare the Chocolate Ganache

For an irresistible finish, you’ll make a classic chocolate ganache. Heat the cream until steamy (not boiling), then pour it over your chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Let it sit untouched for two minutes—the steam will do most of the melting. Then whisk gently until you have a glossy, gorgeous ganache. Allow it to cool just a bit: you want it pourable, but not so hot it slides right off the cake.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

Now comes the magic! Place your first cake layer on a platter. Spread the strawberry whipped cream evenly across the top and, if you love extra berries (who doesn’t?), tuck a layer of halved strawberries right over the cream. Gently place the second cake layer on top, pressing lightly so everything settles evenly. Pour the ganache over the center, letting it slowly drip over the edges in decadent pools. Finish with a crown of whole strawberries and your favorite decorative topper for a cake that’s as stunning to look at as it is to eat.

How to Serve Chocolate Strawberry Layer Cake Recipe

Garnishes

Garnishing the Chocolate Strawberry Layer Cake Recipe is half the fun! A simple scatter of whole strawberries looks breathtaking, but you can also add a light dusting of powdered sugar or a tangle of chocolate curls for extra flair. Edible flowers or a handful of gold sprinkles bring out the cake’s festive spirit and make your whole table smile.

Side Dishes

Since your cake is already rich and decadent, keep sides simple and bright. A bowl of fresh mixed berries or a platter of sliced kiwi brings a fresh pop. If it’s a special brunch or dinner, offer a little vanilla bean ice cream or lightly sweetened whipped cream on the side—just enough to cool the chocolate intensity without overpowering those strawberries.

Creative Ways to Present

Presentation elevates the Chocolate Strawberry Layer Cake Recipe from delightful to unforgettable. Try stacking the cake on a high pedestal for dramatic height, or serve pre-sliced on rustic boards for a casual gathering. For intimate celebrations, decorate each slice with a single sliced strawberry and a sprig of mint. Personalize the cake by choosing a fun decorative topper that matches the occasion—a sparkler candle or playful figurine is always a hit!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Chocolate Strawberry Layer Cake Recipe slices can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap or store pieces in an airtight container to keep the cake layers moist and the cream filling fresh. If your fridge tends to run dry, tuck a small piece of wax paper over exposed sides to shield from air.

Freezing

If needed, you can freeze the undecorated cake layers for up to one month—just wrap them well in plastic and foil. The assembled cake with cream and ganache isn’t ideal for the freezer, as the whipped cream texture changes and strawberries can become watery, but individual slices (minus whole strawberries on top) can be wrapped and frozen for a convenient, dreamy treat later on!

Reheating

There’s no real need to reheat this cake—Chocolate Strawberry Layer Cake Recipe is best served chilled or at room temperature, letting the cream and ganache soften just slightly. If you do prefer a slightly warmer cake, let a slice sit out for 20 minutes before enjoying, allowing the chocolate flavors to intensify without melting the cream.

FAQs

Can I make the strawberry cream with frozen berries?

It’s best to use fresh strawberries for the cream, as frozen berries can release extra water and make the filling runny. If you must use frozen, thaw well and pat dry before chopping, but expect a softer texture.

Do I need to use a stand mixer for the cake and cream?

No mixer necessary! You can make the cake batter by hand with a sturdy whisk and use a hand mixer or a whisk for the cream. Just be sure the cream is well chilled for maximum fluffiness.

How do I keep my ganache from running everywhere?

Let your ganache cool a few minutes before pouring, so it thickens slightly, and pour it onto the center of the cake, nudging gently with a spoon to create beautiful drips and plenty of chocolate coverage.

Can I make the Chocolate Strawberry Layer Cake Recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Swap the all-purpose flour for your favorite gluten-free blend (make sure it has xanthan gum), and proceed as written. The texture may be slightly more delicate, but the flavor’s still fantastic.

Is it okay to assemble the cake in advance?

Yes, and it’s a great idea for stress-free entertaining. Build the cake up to one day ahead, cover well, and refrigerate. Wait to add whole strawberries and decorative toppers until just before serving, to keep everything fresh and perky.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re baking for a celebration or just to spoil yourself, the Chocolate Strawberry Layer Cake Recipe truly rewards every effort with layers of lusciousness. Don’t be shy about adding your own twists or toppings—the magic is in making it yours. Dive in, have fun, and let each bite remind you why this classic combo is a forever favorite. Enjoy!

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