Strawberry Chocolate Cake

why make this recipe

Strawberry Chocolate Cake is a delightful dessert that brings together two amazing flavors: sweet strawberries and rich chocolate. This cake is perfect for birthdays, special occasions, or just a sweet treat to brighten your day. With soft layers of chocolate cake, fruity strawberry jam, and a creamy frosting, it’s a dessert that everyone will love. Plus, it looks beautiful and is fun to make!

how to make Strawberry Chocolate Cake

Ingredients:

500 g strawberries (fresh or frozen)
50 g granulated sugar
1 tablespoon water
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)
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)
7 strawberries (halved for decoration)

Directions:

Make the Strawberry Jam: In a small saucepan, combine 500 g strawberries, 50 g granulated sugar, and 1 tablespoon of water. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the strawberries break down and the mixture thickens. Set aside to cool.
Bake the Chocolate Cake: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). In a bowl, mix 190 g flour, 75 g cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. In another bowl, whisk 115 g melted butter, 100 g light oil, 100 g granulated sugar, and 100 g brown sugar. Add 2 large eggs and 330 g milk. Mix well. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until combined. Pour the batter into prepared baking pans and bake for 30-35 minutes. Let cool.
Prepare the Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting: Beat 250 g softened cream cheese and 115 g softened butter together until smooth. Gradually add 100 g powdered sugar, 70 g strawberry jam, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Mix until well blended. Gently stir in 200 g finely diced strawberries.
Assemble the Cake: Level the cooled cake layers if needed. Place one layer on a serving plate and spread a layer of strawberry jam on top. Add some of the strawberry cream cheese frosting. Place the second layer on top and repeat. Frost the top and sides with the remaining cream cheese frosting. Decorate with the halved strawberries.

how to serve Strawberry Chocolate Cake

Slice the Strawberry Chocolate Cake into generous portions and serve on dessert plates. It pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for added sweetness and creaminess.

how to store Strawberry Chocolate Cake

Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3-5 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing individual slices. Wrap them well in plastic wrap and foil before placing them in the freezer.

tips to make Strawberry Chocolate Cake

Always use room temperature ingredients to ensure a smoother batter and better rise.
If using frozen strawberries, thaw and drain them before using in the jam or frosting.
For an extra chocolatey flavor, consider adding chocolate chips to the batter.

variation

Try adding nuts like walnuts or hazelnuts for crunch or substitute the cocoa powder with white chocolate for a different flavor profile. You could also use raspberry jam instead of strawberry for a delicious twist!

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, just make sure to thaw and drain them to avoid excess moisture.
How can I make the cake gluten-free?
You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Can I make this cake a day in advance?
Yes, you can make the cake ahead of time. Just store it in the refrigerator and frost it the day you plan to serve it.