Strawberry Chocolate Cake

Name: Strawberry Chocolate Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour; 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar; ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder; 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 large eggs; 1 cup whole milk; ½ cup vegetable oil; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 cup boiling water; 1 cup fresh strawberries, pureed; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons heavy cream; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Indulge in the delightful combination of rich chocolate and fresh strawberries with this Strawberry Chocolate Cake. Perfect for any celebration or a sweet treat.

Created by

Freya Cooper

Last updated on 2025-12-22T22:21:38.878Z

This Strawberry Chocolate Cake is a perfect dessert for those who adore the combination of chocolate and fresh fruits. The moist chocolate cake layers are paired with luscious strawberry filling and frosting, making it an irresistible treat.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh strawberry sweetness
Moist and fluffy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or any special occasion

      

A Perfect Pairing of Flavors

The combination of chocolate and strawberries has long been celebrated in desserts around the world. The rich, deep flavor of chocolate contrasts beautifully with the sweet, juicy notes of fresh strawberries, creating a symphony of taste that is simply irresistible. This Strawberry Chocolate Cake brings this classic pairing to life in a moist and decadent way, making it a standout dessert for any occasion.

Each slice of this cake offers a delightful balance of flavors. The chocolate cake base is rich and velvety, while the strawberry filling and frosting add a refreshing burst of sweetness. Together, they create a dessert experience that is not only delicious but also visually stunning, with vibrant colors that catch the eye and tantalize the taste buds.

The Secret to Moist Cake

Achieving the perfect cake texture can be a challenge, but this recipe uses a combination of ingredients that ensures a moist and fluffy result. The addition of boiling water helps to enhance the cocoa flavor while also activating the baking powder and baking soda, resulting in a light and airy cake.

Furthermore, using whole milk and vegetable oil contributes to the cake's tenderness. These ingredients work together to keep the cake moist, even days after baking. When you take a bite, you’ll find that it melts in your mouth, making it a truly indulgent treat that keeps guests coming back for more.

Customizing Your Cake

While this Strawberry Chocolate Cake is delicious as is, there are several ways you can customize it to suit your taste preferences. For a richer chocolate flavor, consider adding chocolate chips to the cake batter. This will not only enhance the chocolate experience but also add a delightful texture.

You can also experiment with different fruits for the filling. Raspberries, blueberries, or even a mixed berry puree can create a delightful twist. If you're looking for a lighter option, consider a whipped cream frosting instead of the strawberry buttercream. These variations allow you to put your personal touch on this already fantastic recipe.

Ingredients

For the Cake

1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
2 large eggs
1 cup whole milk
½ cup vegetable oil
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup boiling water

For the Strawberry Filling and Frosting

1 cup fresh strawberries, pureed
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
2 tablespoons heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Make sure to use fresh strawberries for the best flavor!

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 bowl, combine flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla, and mix until well combined. Stir in boiling water until smooth.

Bake the Cakes

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, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.

Make the Strawberry Frosting

In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, and mix until smooth. Add strawberry puree, heavy cream, and vanilla extract.

Mix until well blended and fluffy.

Assemble the Cake

Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of strawberry frosting on top. Add the second cake layer and frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining strawberry frosting.

Serve and Enjoy

Decorate with fresh strawberries if desired. Slice and enjoy your delicious Strawberry Chocolate Cake!

For the best flavor, let the cake sit for a few hours before serving.

Tips for Successful Baking

To ensure your cake turns out perfectly, always measure your ingredients accurately. Using a kitchen scale can be beneficial, especially for dry ingredients like flour and cocoa powder. This precision can significantly affect the texture and flavor of your cake.

When baking, avoid opening the oven door frequently, as this can cause the temperature to fluctuate and affect the rising of your cake. Instead, use the oven light to check on your cake and only open the door when necessary to ensure even baking.

Storing Your Cake

If you have leftovers (which is rare with this delicious cake!), store the Strawberry Chocolate Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate it, but be sure to let it come to room temperature before serving to maintain its flavor and texture.

For even longer preservation, consider freezing slices of the cake. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw the slices in the refrigerator overnight and enjoy a taste of your delicious creation.

Pairing Suggestions

This Strawberry Chocolate Cake pairs beautifully with a variety of beverages. For a classic touch, serve it with a glass of cold milk or a rich, dark coffee. The bitterness of the coffee complements the sweetness of the cake, making each bite even more enjoyable.

For a festive occasion, consider serving it with sparkling wine or a fruity rosé. The effervescence and lightness of these drinks contrast nicely with the dense chocolate, enhancing the overall dessert experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but fresh ones provide the best flavor and texture.

→ How should I store the cake?

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

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cake layers in advance and frost them the day you plan to serve.

→ What can I substitute for eggs?

You can use flaxseed meal or applesauce as an egg substitute in this recipe.