If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert that combines the deep richness of chocolate with the fresh sweetness of strawberries, this Strawberry Chocolate Cake is your dream come true. With its tender cocoa layers, luscious whipped cream filling, juicy berries, and silky ganache topping, this cake offers the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and visual appeal.
Whether you’re baking for a birthday, Valentine’s Day, or simply indulging your sweet tooth, this dessert will have everyone coming back for seconds. And the best part? It’s surprisingly simple to make with ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Chocolate Cake
This isn’t just any chocolate cake—it’s a full sensory experience:
- Rich and moist cocoa cake layers that melt in your mouth
- Fresh strawberries for a fruity brightness
- Creamy whipped or mascarpone filling to balance the decadence
- A shiny ganache drizzle that adds elegance and indulgence
- An Instagram-worthy presentation topped with whole strawberries and a dusting of powdered sugar
This cake blends homemade charm with bakery-style flair, making it ideal for gatherings, holidays, or a cozy evening in.
Ingredients (Serves 8–10)
For the Chocolate Cake:
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ¾ cup hot coffee or water
For the Filling & Topping:
- 1 ½ cups whipped cream or mascarpone
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped
- ½ cup chocolate ganache (melted chocolate + cream)
- Whole strawberries for garnish
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Batter
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, combine the sugar, eggs, oil, buttermilk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Finally, stir in the hot coffee or water—this intensifies the chocolate flavor and keeps the cake moist.
2. Bake the Cake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 8-inch round cake pans and divide the batter evenly. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool completely before assembling.
3. Add the Filling
Place the first cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of whipped cream or mascarpone over the top, then scatter the chopped strawberries evenly. Carefully place the second cake layer on top.
4. Drizzle with Ganache
Warm your chocolate ganache and drizzle it slowly over the top of the cake, letting it drip naturally down the sides. This adds both visual drama and a luxurious chocolatey finish.
5. Garnish and Serve
Top the cake with whole fresh strawberries, then dust with powdered sugar for an elegant final touch. For best results, chill the cake for 30–60 minutes before slicing—it helps the layers set and enhances the flavor.
Pro Tip
Use mascarpone for a more indulgent filling, especially if serving for a special occasion. And always use ripe, in-season strawberries for maximum flavor.
Pairing Suggestions
This cake pairs beautifully with:
- A glass of sparkling rosé or Champagne
- Espresso or dark roast coffee
- A scoop of vanilla bean ice cream on the side
The freshness of the strawberries and cream cuts through the richness of the chocolate, making every bite feel balanced and satisfying.
A Cake for All Seasons
What makes this Strawberry Chocolate Cake universally beloved is its versatility. It’s just as perfect for a summer picnic as it is for a winter celebration. It also lends itself well to personal tweaks—swap out mascarpone for flavored whipped cream, or add a touch of orange zest to the ganache for a citrus twist.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for the ultimate strawberry and chocolate dessert, this cake checks all the boxes: it’s visually stunning, incredibly flavorful, and easier to make than it looks. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a weekend kitchen warrior, this recipe promises delicious results every time.