Introduction
Indulge in the delightful combination of rich chocolate and fresh strawberries with this Chocolate Strawberry Cake. This moist chocolate cake is layered with a sweet strawberry filling and topped with a luscious chocolate ganache, making it the perfect dessert for any celebration or a special treat for yourself.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
- 200g all-purpose flour
- 50g cocoa powder
- 1 ½ teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 200g granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 250ml whole milk
- 120ml vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 200ml hot water
- 300g strawberries, chopped
- 50g granulated sugar (for strawberry filling)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 200ml heavy cream
- 200g dark chocolate, chopped
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 8 servings
Enjoy this scrumptious Chocolate Strawberry Cake as a centerpiece for your next gathering, or simply as a sweet treat to brighten your day!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease and line two 20cm (8-inch) round cake pans with parchment paper.
Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, sift together 200g all-purpose flour, 50g cocoa powder, 1 ½ teaspoon baking powder, 1 teaspoon baking soda, and ½ teaspoon salt until well combined.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together 200g granulated sugar, 2 large eggs, 250ml whole milk, 120ml vegetable oil, and 2 teaspoon vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing continuously until fully incorporated.
Step 5: Add Hot Water
Carefully stir in 200ml hot water into the batter, mixing until the batter is smooth and well combined.
Step 6: Bake the Cakes
Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool the Cakes
Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 8: Prepare Strawberry Filling
In a saucepan, combine 300g chopped strawberries, 50g sugar, and 1 tablespoon lemon juice. Cook over medium heat until the strawberries are soft and syrupy. Remove from heat and let cool.
Step 9: Make Chocolate Ganache
In a small saucepan, heat 200ml heavy cream until it starts to simmer. Pour the hot cream over 200g chopped dark chocolate in a bowl. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Let it cool slightly.
Step 10: Assemble the Cake
Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread the strawberry filling evenly over the top. Gently place the second cake layer on top of the first.
Step 11: Pour Ganache
Drizzle the chocolate ganache over the top of the cake, allowing it to drip down the sides for a decorative effect.
Step 12: Final Touches
If desired, decorate the top of the cake with fresh strawberries. Allow the ganache to set before slicing and serving.
Notes
Storage
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Serving Suggestions
This cake pairs wonderfully with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent dessert.
Customization
Feel free to add additional layers of filling or frosting if you desire a richer flavor.
Tips for Success
Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting for best results. Keep an eye on the cakes as oven times may vary.
Serving Size
This recipe yields approximately 8 servings.
Storage Instructions
Room Temperature
Store the cake at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Refrigeration
If you want to keep the cake fresh for a longer time, refrigerate it for up to 5 days. Make sure to cover it well to prevent it from drying out.
Freezing
This cake can also be frozen. Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. It will last for up to 3 months in the freezer. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Garnish
Top with fresh strawberries or a sprinkle of cocoa powder for an elegant presentation.
Side Pairings
Serve with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to enhance the flavor.
Occasions
Perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or any special celebration. Consider serving it with coffee or a dessert wine for a delightful treat.
Nutritional Information
Per Serving (1 slice)
Calories: 350
Total Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 50mg
Sodium: 300mg
Total Carbohydrates: 46g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 24g
Protein: 5g
Ingredient Substitutions
Flour
For a gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Cocoa Powder
You can use Dutch-processed cocoa powder instead of regular cocoa powder for a deeper flavor.
Milk
Almond milk or oat milk can be used as a dairy-free alternative.
Vegetable Oil
Coconut oil or melted butter can replace vegetable oil for a different flavor profile.
Dark Chocolate
Semi-sweet chocolate can be used instead of dark chocolate for a sweeter ganache.
Cook techniques
Mixing Dry Ingredients
Sifting flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt together ensures even distribution and helps eliminate lumps, resulting in a lighter cake.
Whipping Wet Ingredients
Whisking together sugar, eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract creates a smooth and homogenous mixture, which is essential for proper cake texture and flavor.
Incorporating Hot Water
Adding hot water at the end of mixing the batter helps to activate the cocoa powder, leading to a richer chocolate flavor and a moist cake.
Baking Techniques
Bake the cake layers on the middle rack of the oven to ensure even baking. Use the skewer test to check if cakes are done—if it comes out clean, the cake is ready.
Cooling Cakes
Allow the cakes to cool in their pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps prevent them from breaking, ensuring they maintain their shape.
Making Strawberry Filling
Cooking strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice over medium heat allows the strawberries to break down and create a flavorful syrup, enhancing the filling’s taste.
Preparing Chocolate Ganache
Heating the heavy cream until simmering and then pouring it over chopped chocolate helps to melt it smoothly. Stirring until combined results in a silky ganache perfect for drizzling.
FAQ
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh ones?
Yes, frozen strawberries can be used, but make sure to thaw and drain them to avoid excess moisture in the filling.
What can I substitute for vegetable oil?
You can substitute vegetable oil with melted coconut oil or unsalted butter, though the flavor may slightly change.
How do I store leftover cake?
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to a month.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, you can make this cake gluten-free.
Is it possible to prepare the cake in advance?
Absolutely! You can bake the cake layers a day in advance and store them wrapped tightly. Prepare the strawberry filling and ganache on the same day for best results.
Conclusion
The Chocolate Strawberry Cake is a delightful treat that combines the rich taste of chocolate with the sweet and tangy flavor of strawberries. Its moist texture and layered fillings make it a standout dessert for any occasion, whether it's a birthday, anniversary, or just a craving for something indulgent. The luscious chocolate ganache adds the perfect finishing touch, making each slice a heavenly experience.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Chocolate Raspberry Cake
Swap strawberries for raspberries and create a deliciously tart filling that pairs perfectly with chocolate.
Chocolate Cream Cheese Cake
Use cream cheese frosting in place of ganache for a tangy complement to the chocolate cake.
Strawberry Shortcake Cookies
Transform this into a cookie version with shortbread cookies layered with fresh strawberries and whipped cream.
Chocolate Strawberry Cupcakes
Make mini versions by baking the chocolate cake in muffin tins and filling with strawberry frosting.
Chocolate Hazelnut Cake
Add a layer of creamy hazelnut spread between the chocolate cake layers for a nutty twist on this classic.
Strawberry-Swirled Chocolate Cheesecake
Combine cheesecake and chocolate cake for a rich, layered dessert with swirls of strawberry throughout.
Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake
Create a cheesecake base with a chocolate cookie crust and layers of strawberry filling and chocolate ganache.
Chocolate-MInt Strawberry Cake
Incorporate mint extract into the ganache for a refreshing flavor that complements the strawberries beautifully.
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