To create this delightful Strawberry Chocolate Cake, gather the following ingredients:
What is Strawberry Chocolate Cake?
Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Chocolate Cake
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ 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
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
- 1 cup chocolate chips
Who It’s For
**Substitutions:** If you’re looking for unique cake flavor ideas, consider using almond milk instead of whole milk for a nutty twist. You can also swap out the vegetable oil for melted coconut oil for a hint of tropical flavor.
When to Cook It
Follow these simple steps to bake your Strawberry Chocolate Cake:
How to Make the Perfect Strawberry Chocolate Cake
Ingredients
- Convenient and Quick: With a total prep and bake time of just 55 minutes, this Strawberry Chocolate Cake is perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
- Irresistible Flavor: The rich chocolate pairs beautifully with the fresh strawberries, creating a dessert that is both decadent and refreshing, making it a hit with everyone.
- Healthier Indulgence: Using fresh strawberries not only adds natural sweetness but also provides vitamins and antioxidants, making this cake a more wholesome treat.
- Family-Friendly: This cake appeals to all ages, from kids to grandparents, ensuring that everyone at the table will enjoy a slice (or two!).
- Versatile Dessert: Whether you choose to frost it or leave it as a no frosting cake, this Chocolate Berry Cake Recipe can be customized to suit any occasion.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease 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 to the dry ingredients and mix until well combined, creating a smooth batter.
- Stir in boiling water until the batter is silky and well-blended.
- Gently fold in the sliced strawberries and chocolate chips, allowing their sweetness to mingle with the rich chocolate.
- Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans, filling them about two-thirds full.
- 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 to wire racks to cool completely.
- Once cooled, frost with your favorite chocolate frosting and top with additional strawberries for a beautiful finish.
For People with Diabetes: Sugar Substitutes
If you’re looking to reduce sugar, consider using stevia, monk fruit, erythritol, or allulose as alternatives. These options provide sweetness without the calories. However, it’s best to avoid honey or maple syrup, as they can spike blood sugar levels.
To make your Strawberry Chocolate Cake a success, gather these essential tools:
Tools You’ll Need
- Mixing Bowls: A set of various sizes will help you combine ingredients easily.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to baking, so invest in a good set.
- Whisk: Perfect for mixing dry ingredients and incorporating air into your batter.
- Spatula: A silicone spatula is great for folding in strawberries and chocolate chips without damaging them.
- 9-inch Round Cake Pans: Essential for baking your cake layers evenly.
- Cooling Rack: Allows your cakes to cool properly, preventing sogginess.
- Toothpick or Cake Tester: To check for doneness; a clean toothpick means your cake is ready!
- Electric Mixer (optional): While you can mix by hand, an electric mixer can save time and effort.
Top Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Use Quality Ingredients: Chef Jacques Torres emphasizes the importance of using high-quality chocolate. Opt for premium chocolate chips or bars for a richer flavor that truly shines in your cake.
- Don’t Overmix: According to pastry chef Dominique Ansel, overmixing your batter can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined for a light and fluffy texture.
- Fresh Strawberries Matter: Chef Ina Garten suggests using the ripest, freshest strawberries you can find. Their natural sweetness and juiciness will enhance the overall flavor of your Chocolate Berry Cake Recipe.
- Let Your Cake Cool Completely: Renowned baker Dorie Greenspan advises allowing your cake to cool completely before frosting. This prevents the frosting from melting and ensures a beautiful presentation.
- Experiment with Flavors: Chef Christina Tosi encourages creativity in the kitchen. Don’t hesitate to add a splash of orange zest or a hint of espresso powder to your batter for a unique twist on the classic Chocolate Valentine Cake.
Storing and Reheating Tips
- Chocolate Strawberry Frosting: Instead of a traditional frosting, try a chocolate strawberry frosting made by blending fresh strawberries into your chocolate frosting. This adds a fruity twist that complements the cake beautifully.
- Gluten-Free Option: For those with gluten sensitivities, substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. This will allow everyone to enjoy the cake without compromising on taste or texture.
- Vegan Delight: To make a vegan version, replace eggs with flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon of flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg) and use almond or coconut milk instead of whole milk. Ensure your chocolate chips are dairy-free as well.
- Nutty Addition: Incorporate chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, into the batter for added texture and flavor. The crunchiness of the nuts pairs wonderfully with the soft cake and juicy strawberries.
- Layered Cake: For a show-stopping dessert, bake the cake in three layers instead of two. Alternate layers of chocolate cake with layers of whipped cream and sliced strawberries for a stunning presentation.
- Different Chocolate Cake Flavors: Experiment with different types of chocolate by using dark chocolate cocoa powder or even white chocolate chips for a unique flavor profile that surprises your taste buds.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Always use room temperature eggs and milk. This helps create a smoother batter and ensures even baking, resulting in a moist cake.
- Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife. Avoid scooping directly from the bag, as this can lead to using too much flour and a dense cake.
- Don’t Skip the Boiling Water: Adding boiling water to the batter enhances the cocoa flavor and creates a moist texture. It may seem unusual, but trust me, it makes a difference!
- Use Parchment Paper: Line your cake pans with parchment paper for easy removal. This prevents the cake from sticking and ensures a clean, beautiful presentation.
- Cool Cakes Upside Down: Once your cakes are out of the oven, cool them upside down on a wire rack. This helps maintain their shape and prevents doming, giving you a flat surface for frosting.
- Frosting Tips: If you’re using a chocolate frosting, consider chilling it slightly before spreading. This makes it easier to work with and helps achieve a smooth finish.
- Flavor Enhancements: For an extra layer of flavor, add a splash of vanilla extract or a hint of espresso powder to the batter. These subtle additions can elevate the overall taste of your Chocolate Berry Cake Recipe.
- Let It Rest: Allow your frosted cake to sit for at least 30 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld together and makes for a more enjoyable eating experience.
FAQs About Strawberry Chocolate Cake
- Room Temperature: If you plan to enjoy your cake within a couple of days, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. This keeps the cake moist and flavorful.
- Refrigeration: For longer storage, place the cake in the refrigerator. Cover it with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out. It can last up to a week in the fridge.
- Freezing: If you want to save your Strawberry Chocolate Cake for later, it freezes beautifully! Wrap individual slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be frozen for up to three months.
Conclusion: Final Thoughts on Strawberry Chocolate Cake
By following these storing and reheating tips, you can enjoy your Strawberry Chocolate Cake at its best, whether it’s fresh out of the oven or a delightful leftover treat!
As you embark on your journey to create the perfect Strawberry Chocolate Cake, here are some extra clarifications and tips to ensure your baking experience is smooth and enjoyable:
By keeping these helpful notes in mind, you’ll be well on your way to creating a stunning and delicious Strawberry Chocolate Cake that will impress your family and friends!
When baking your Strawberry Chocolate Cake, it’s easy to make a few missteps that can affect the final result. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:
As you embark on your journey to create this Strawberry Chocolate Cake, remember that baking is not just about the end result; it’s about the love and joy you share with those around you. Each slice of this cake is a celebration of flavors, a reminder of sweet moments spent with family and friends. I encourage you to try this recipe and make it your own, experimenting with flavors and variations that resonate with you. If you enjoyed this recipe, please share your thoughts in the comments below or share it with fellow food lovers. Happy baking!
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[Delicious Strawberry Chocolate Cake Recipe]
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful blend of rich chocolate and fresh strawberries, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ 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
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
- 1 cup chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease 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 to the dry ingredients and mix until well combined.
- Stir in boiling water until the batter is smooth.
- Fold in sliced strawberries and chocolate chips.
- Pour the batter evenly into the prepared 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 to wire racks to cool completely.
- Once cooled, frost with your favorite chocolate frosting and top with additional strawberries.
Discover my favorite kitchen tools I always use.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use dark chocolate cocoa powder.
- Ensure strawberries are fresh for the best taste.
- This cake can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 30mg