Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Chocolate Strawberry Layer Cake Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.9 from 147 reviews
  • Author: Lauren
  • Prep Time: 45 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 135 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This decadent Chocolate Strawberry Cake features two layers of rich chocolate cake made with both unsweetened and Dutch process cocoa, baked to perfection and moistened with buttermilk and coffee. It is generously frosted with fresh strawberry frosting, layered with fresh sliced strawberries, and topped with silky chocolate ganache, creating a luscious balance of chocolate and fruit flavors perfect for any celebration.


Ingredients

Scale

Cake

  • 2 cups sugar
  • 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 2 tablespoons Dutch process cocoa (optional)
  • 2 teaspoons baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 cup strong black coffee
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

Frosting and Garnish

  • 1 batch strawberry frosting
  • 8-10 fresh strawberries, sliced
  • 1 batch chocolate ganache


Instructions

  1. Preheat and prepare pans: Heat the oven to 350°F. Grease and flour two 9-inch round baking pans and set them aside to prevent sticking.
  2. Mix dry ingredients: In a stand mixer bowl fitted with a whisk attachment or a large bowl with an electric mixer, combine the sugar, all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, Dutch process cocoa (if using), baking soda, baking powder, and kosher salt. Mix on low speed until all dry ingredients are fully incorporated and uniform.
  3. Add wet ingredients: Add eggs, buttermilk, strong black coffee, vegetable oil, and pure vanilla extract to the dry mixture. Beat the batter on medium speed for about two minutes until smooth and slightly thin in consistency.
  4. Fill pans and bake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans to ensure even baking. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes or until a wooden toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
  5. Cool cakes: Remove the pans from the oven and allow the cakes to cool for 10 minutes. Then invert the cakes onto wire racks and cool completely to room temperature before frosting.
  6. Assemble the cake: Once cooled, spread a layer of strawberry frosting on one cake layer, add sliced fresh strawberries on top, then place the second cake layer over it. Frost the entire cake with the remaining strawberry frosting.
  7. Finish with ganache and garnish: Pour the chocolate ganache over the frosted cake for a glossy finish. Garnish with additional sliced fresh strawberries as desired for added flavor and presentation.

Notes

  • This cake is gorgeous and indulgent, combining the rich flavors of chocolate with the freshness of strawberries.
  • Using strong black coffee enhances the depth of the chocolate flavor without adding a coffee taste.
  • Make sure the cakes are completely cool before frosting to prevent melting the frosting.
  • To save time, strawberry frosting and chocolate ganache can be prepared a day ahead and refrigerated.
  • For best results, use freshly sliced strawberries for layering and decorating right before serving.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 776 kcal
  • Sugar: 35 g
  • Sodium: 445 mg
  • Fat: 12 g
  • Saturated Fat: 3 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.1 g
  • Carbohydrates: 52 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 5 g
  • Cholesterol: 29 mg