π«π Chocolate Cake with Strawberry Filling Recipe ππ«
A rich and moist chocolate cake layered with a luscious strawberry filling, perfect for special occasions or when you’re craving a decadent dessert!
π« Ingredients π
For the Chocolate Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup buttermilk (or 1 cup milk + 1 tbsp vinegar, let sit for 5 minutes)
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup hot coffee (enhances the chocolate flavor, optional but recommended)
For the Strawberry Filling:
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp water
For the Chocolate Ganache (Optional Topping):
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter (for extra shine, optional)
For the Whipped Cream Frosting (Optional):
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
π₯ Instructions π₯
Step 1: Make the Chocolate Cake
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, or line them with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined.
- Slowly pour in the hot coffee while stirring continuously. The batter will be thin, but this is normal—it creates a moist cake!
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 2: Prepare the Strawberry Filling
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the chopped strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice.
- Stir occasionally and cook for about 5 minutes, until the strawberries release their juices.
- In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Add it to the strawberry mixture and stir continuously.
- Cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the filling thickens slightly.
- Remove from heat and let it cool completely before using.
Step 3: Make the Chocolate Ganache (Optional Topping)
- Heat the heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat until it just begins to simmer (do not boil).
- Remove from heat and pour it over the chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Let it sit for 1-2 minutes, then stir until smooth.
- Add the butter (if using) for extra shine.
- Let the ganache cool for about 10 minutes before using.
Step 4: Make the Whipped Cream Frosting (Optional)
- In a chilled bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract on high speed until stiff peaks form.
- Be careful not to overbeat, or it will turn into butter!
Step 5: Assemble the Cake
- Place one chocolate cake layer on a serving plate.
- Spread an even layer of the strawberry filling on top. Be careful not to overfill, as it might leak out the sides.
- Place the second chocolate cake layer on top.
- If using, spread the whipped cream frosting over the top and sides of the cake for a lighter finish. Alternatively, pour the chocolate ganache over the cake, letting it drip down the sides for a stunning effect.
- Decorate with fresh strawberries, chocolate shavings, or additional whipped cream.
π½ Serving & Storage π½
- Chill the cake for 30 minutes before slicing to help the layers set.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- If using ganache, let the cake sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before serving for the best texture.
π Tips & Variations π
β Make it extra fruity! Add a layer of sliced fresh strawberries on top of the strawberry filling.
β Add a crunch! Sprinkle chopped nuts (like almonds or hazelnuts) between the layers.
β Make it a triple-layer cake! Divide the batter into three 8-inch pans and add extra strawberry filling between layers.
β Want a boozy twist? Add 1 tbsp rum or Grand Marnier to the ganache for a rich, indulgent flavor.
This Chocolate Cake with Strawberry Filling is a perfect balance of rich, moist chocolate and fresh, fruity sweetness. Whether topped with chocolate ganache or whipped cream frosting, it’s guaranteed to impress at any gathering!
Enjoy your homemade chocolate-strawberry masterpiece! π«ππ
