Are you ready to indulge in a sweet treat that combines rich chocolate and fresh strawberries? In this delightful recipe for Chocolate Cake with Strawberry Filling, I’ll guide you step-by-step to create a mouthwatering dessert. You’ll discover how to whip up the perfect cake batter, craft a luscious strawberry filling, and even add some creative touches for presentation. Let’s dive into this delicious journey!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Rich Chocolate Flavor: This cake is a chocolate lover's dream, with deep cocoa notes that satisfy any sweet tooth.
- Fresh Strawberry Surprise: The addition of fresh strawberries provides a delightful contrast to the rich chocolate, making every bite refreshing.
- Impressive Presentation: Layering the cake with whipped cream and strawberries creates a stunning dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.
- Easy to Make: Despite its elegant appearance, this cake is straightforward to prepare, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
For a great chocolate cake, choose quality dry ingredients. All-purpose flour gives structure. Cocoa powder adds rich flavor. Granulated sugar sweetens the cake. Baking powder and baking soda help it rise. Salt balances the sweetness and enhances flavors.
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup whole milk
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water
The wet ingredients bring the cake to life. Whole milk adds moisture and richness. Vegetable oil keeps the cake soft. Eggs provide binding and lift. Vanilla extract enhances flavor. Boiling water makes the batter smooth and helps the cocoa bloom.
Strawberry Filling and Garnish
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- 1 ½ cups heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (for whipping cream)
- Fresh strawberries for garnish
Fresh strawberries are key for the filling. Toss sliced strawberries with powdered sugar. This brings out their natural sweetness. Heavy whipping cream creates a light topping. Whip it with granulated sugar for extra sweetness. Use more strawberries to garnish the cake beautifully.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Cake Batter
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. This helps the cake release easily later.
2. In a large bowl, mix the dry ingredients: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour, 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 cup granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon baking powder, 1 teaspoon baking soda, and ½ teaspoon salt. Whisk them well until combined.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients: 1 cup whole milk, ½ cup vegetable oil, 2 large eggs, and 2 teaspoons vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
4. Gradually add the wet mix to the dry mix. Stir gently until just combined. This keeps the cake light.
5. Carefully stir in 1 cup of boiling water. The batter will be thin, but that’s okay! This step adds moisture and richness.
Baking the Cakes
1. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Use a spatula to smooth the tops for an even bake.
2. Bake for 30-35 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center. It should come out clean. If it has batter, give it more time.
Making the Strawberry Filling and Whipped Cream
1. While your cakes cool, prepare the strawberry filling. In a small bowl, toss 1 cup of sliced strawberries with ¼ cup powdered sugar. Let this sit for about 15 minutes. This step draws out the juices and sweetens the strawberries.
2. Next, whip 1 ½ cups of heavy whipping cream with 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar. Use a mixer until soft peaks form. This will be your fluffy topping.
Now you’re ready to assemble your delicious chocolate cake with strawberry filling!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Cake Texture
To make a great chocolate cake, start with accurate ingredient measurements. Use a kitchen scale if you have one. This helps to get the right amount of flour and cocoa powder. Too much flour can make the cake dense.
For mixing, use a gentle hand. Overmixing can toughen the cake. Mix until you see no dry flour. When you add the boiling water, be careful. It helps the cocoa bloom and gives moisture, but handle it slowly.
Strawberry Filling Tips
When making the strawberry filling, you can change it up a bit. Try mashing some strawberries for a smoother filling. You can also add a splash of lemon juice to brighten the flavor.
If strawberries aren’t your thing, use other fruits like raspberries or blueberries. Each fruit will give a unique taste. Just remember to adjust the sugar based on the fruit's sweetness.
Decorating Ideas
For a smooth frosting, chill your whipped cream before using it. This makes spreading easier. Use a spatula to create soft peaks on top of the cake.
When you serve the cake, cut it with a hot knife. It makes clean slices. Place each slice on a decorative plate. Add whole strawberries or a drizzle of chocolate sauce around the sides for extra flair.
Pro Tips
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow your eggs and milk to come to room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smoother batter and improves the cake's texture.
- Don't Overmix the Batter: Once you combine the wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake rather than a light and fluffy one.
- Enhance Strawberry Flavor: For an extra burst of flavor in your strawberry filling, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or a teaspoon of vanilla extract.
- Chill Before Serving: Letting the cake chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before slicing allows the flavors to meld and makes for easier cutting.
Variations
Flavor Variations
You can add a twist to this chocolate cake by using espresso powder. This gives the cake a rich mocha flavor that pairs perfectly with the strawberries. Just add one tablespoon of espresso powder to your dry ingredients.
You can also mix in other berries or fruits. Try raspberries or blueberries for a fun change. These fruits will add a new taste and color to your cake.
Gluten-Free Options
If you need a gluten-free cake, you can swap the all-purpose flour. Use a gluten-free flour blend instead. Make sure it has a good mix of starches and protein. This will help the cake rise well and keep its texture.
Vegan Alternatives
For a vegan version, replace the eggs and milk with plant-based options. Use flax eggs or applesauce for the eggs. Almond milk or coconut milk can work well instead of whole milk. You can also use coconut cream to whip for the filling. This will keep the cake creamy and delicious without dairy.
These variations let you customize your cake. Feel free to experiment with flavors and diets. You will create a dessert everyone can enjoy!
Storage Info
Storing the Cake
To keep your chocolate cake fresh, store it in the fridge. Use a cake dome or wrap it in plastic. This helps keep the cake moist. Make sure the cake is cool before wrapping. If you have leftovers, slice the cake to help it stay fresh.
To keep the cake fresh longer, avoid exposing it to air. Air can dry out the cake. If you can, eat the cake within a few days for the best taste.
Freezing Instructions
To freeze your cake layers, let them cool completely. Wrap each layer in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag. Label the bag with the date. This keeps track of how long they’re in the freezer.
When you want to serve the cake, take it out and leave it in the fridge overnight. This helps it thaw slowly. You can also thaw it at room temperature for a few hours. Once thawed, frost and serve as you like.
Shelf Life
The chocolate cake with strawberry filling lasts about a week in the fridge. Make sure it is covered well. If you freeze the cake, it can last up to three months. Always check for any signs of freezer burn before serving. Enjoy your cake while it’s fresh for the best flavor!
FAQs
Can I use cake mix instead of making batter from scratch?
Yes, you can use cake mix. It saves time and effort. However, homemade batter gives a deeper taste. When you use a mix, you miss out on the joy of baking. If time is tight, a mix works well. Just add your own touch by adding fresh fruit or spices.
How do I know when the cake is done baking?
To check if the cake is done, use a toothpick. Insert it in the center of the cake. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready. Another sign is a slight bounce when you press the top. The edges should pull away from the pan, too. These signs mean you can take your cake out.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this cake ahead. Bake the layers and let them cool completely. Wrap each layer in plastic wrap. Store them in the fridge for up to three days. You can also freeze the layers for up to three months. Just thaw them in the fridge overnight before frosting. This method saves time and lets flavors blend well.
This post covered all you need for a delicious cake. We explored dry and wet ingredients, made a tasty strawberry filling, and learned baking steps. Remember, measuring ingredients right gives you the best texture. Feel free to try different flavors or make this cake vegan. Store it well, and it’ll stay fresh for days. Enjoy making this cake, and share it with others. Your kitchen will shine with this tasty creation!
