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There’s something truly magical about the moment when you cut into a rich Strawberry Chocolate Cake. The first slice reveals layers of fudgy chocolate cake that are lovingly complemented by homemade strawberry jam and fresh strawberries peeking through. As you lift a forkful, the aroma of sweet strawberries mingles with deep chocolate, creating an irresistible invitation to indulge. This delightful dessert isn’t just a feast for the senses; it’s a nostalgic reminder of summer days spent at picnics and celebrations with loved ones.

After a long week of fast food runs, this cake serves as the perfect antidote—a chance to savor homemade decadence that impresses at any gathering. Finished with a luscious strawberry cream cheese frosting, each bite strikes that ideal balance between richness and fruity brightness, making it the centerpiece everyone will fight over. Whether you’re creating a showstopper for a birthday or simply wanting to brighten a Tuesday, this Strawberry Chocolate Cake is your go-to recipe for heartfelt moments. Let’s get started on whipping up this mouthwatering treat that’s sure to win hearts!

Why Choose Strawberry Chocolate Cake Today?

Delicious Layers: Each slice unveils rich chocolate mingled with homemade strawberry jam, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.
Homemade Goodness: Say goodbye to fast food; this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a luxurious dessert.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for birthdays, picnics, or casual get-togethers, it’s a guaranteed showstopper.
Customizable Options: Easily swap strawberries for raspberries, or experiment with different frostings to suit your tastes.
Easy to Follow: The clear, step-by-step instructions make this cake accessible for bakers of all levels, ensuring success every time.
Indulge in the nostalgia of homemade desserts today!

Strawberry Chocolate Cake Ingredients

For the Strawberry Jam
• Strawberries (500g) – Adds natural sweetness and flavor to both the jam and as a filling; fresh or frozen strawberries can be used.
• Granulated Sugar (50g) – Sweetens the strawberry jam and balances the tartness of the fruit; can be adjusted based on sweetness preference.
• Water (1 tablespoon) – Assists in cooking the strawberries to create a jam-like consistency.

For the Cake
• All-Purpose Flour (190g) – Provides structure to the cake; for a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free all-purpose blend.
• Natural Cocoa Powder (75g) – Contributes depth of flavor and dark color; unsweetened cocoa powder is recommended for a rich taste.
• Baking Powder (1 teaspoon) – A leavening agent that helps the cake rise.
• Baking Soda (½ teaspoon) – Works with the acidic ingredients in the recipe to provide lift.
• Salt (½ teaspoon) – Enhances overall flavor.
• Unsalted Butter (115g, melted) – Adds moisture and richness to the cake; substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
• Light-Tasting Oil (100g) – Adds moisture without altering flavor; vegetable or canola oil works well.
• Granulated Sugar (100g) – Sweetens the cake, balanced by brown sugar for a slight molasses flavor.
• Brown Sugar (100g) – Adds moisture and a subtle caramel flavor.
• Large Eggs (2) – Binds ingredients and helps provide structure; room temperature is best for mixing.
• Milk (330g) – Keeps the cake moist; whole or buttermilk can be used for added richness.

For the Frosting
• Cream Cheese (250g) – Tangy base for the frosting, providing richness; ensure it’s softened for easier mixing.
• Powdered Sugar (100g) – Sweetens the frosting and gives it structure.
• Strawberry Jam (70g) – Adds sweetness and flavor to the frosting, enhancing the overall taste of the strawberry chocolate cake.
• Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon) – Elevates the sweetness and aroma of the frosting.

For Decoration
• Diced Strawberries (200g) – Used as filling between layers, adding freshness.
• Halved Strawberries (7) – Decorative topping for the finished cake.

How to Make Strawberry Chocolate Cake

Prepare the Strawberry Jam: In a pot, combine strawberries, sugar, and water. Heat the mixture until boiling, then cook it until it thickens into a jam-like consistency, about 10-15 minutes. Cool in the refrigerator before using.
Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking.
Line the Pans: Prepare two 6-inch round cake pans by lining the bottoms with parchment paper, preventing the cake from sticking.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until evenly combined.
Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the melted butter, light-tasting oil, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Stir in the eggs, one at a time, until smooth.
Combine Mixtures: Gradually alternate adding the dry mixture and the milk to the wet ingredients. Mix gently until just combined; over-mixing may result in a denser cake.
Divide and Bake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans, smooth the tops, and bake for 40-45 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick; it should come out clean.
Cool the Cakes: After baking, let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Make the Frosting: Beat the softened cream cheese until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, strawberry jam, and vanilla extract until the frosting is smooth and spreadable.
Assemble the Cake: Level the cooled cake layers if needed. Stack the layers with a generous amount of frosting and diced strawberries in between. Apply a crumb coat, followed by a final layer of frosting, and decorate with halved strawberries.

Optional: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Strawberry Chocolate Cake

Fridge: Store your Strawberry Chocolate Cake in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezer: Wrap individual cake layers tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to a month; this allows for easy layer-by-layer enjoyment later!

Reheating: If you’ve frozen the cake, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. To serve, you can gently warm slices in the microwave for a few seconds to enhance the fudgy texture.

Leftover Frosting: Keep any extra strawberry cream cheese frosting in the fridge for up to one week; it’s perfect for spreading on fresh bread or crackers!

Make Ahead Options

These delightful Strawberry Chocolate Cake layers are perfect for meal prep, saving you time on busy days! You can prepare the strawberry jam up to 3 days in advance; simply refrigerate it in an airtight container to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can bake the cake layers 24 hours ahead—cool them completely, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and store them in the fridge to keep them moist. When you’re ready to serve, frost the cake and assemble it with the fresh strawberries. This way, your indulgent Strawberry Chocolate Cake will be just as rich and flavorful, ready to impress your guests!

Variations & Substitutions for Strawberry Chocolate Cake

Feel free to let your creativity shine by tweaking this recipe to suit your taste and dietary needs!

Berry Swaps: Substitute strawberries with raspberries or blueberries for a delicious mixed berry flavor that still dazzles.
Gluten-Free Delight: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for those avoiding gluten, allowing everyone to enjoy a slice.
Dairy-Free Option: Replace butter with coconut oil and whole milk with almond milk to create a cake that everyone can revel in without dairy.
Frosting Flips: Try a whipped cream frosting instead for a lighter feel, or a rich chocolate ganache for an indulgent twist.
Added Crunch: Fold in chopped nuts or chocolate chips into the batter for a delightful texture contrast in each bite.
Sweet Spice: Add a hint of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter, giving your cake a warm, aromatic flavor that’s perfect for cooler months.
Zesty Lift: Incorporate a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest to the batter for a vibrant citrus twist that brightens the chocolate and strawberry combination.
Spicy Kick: Adding a touch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the chocolate batter can create a surprising warmth that complements the sweetness beautifully.

Experiment with these variations and make this delightful cake your own!

What to Serve with Strawberry Chocolate Cake?

Every slice of this luscious cake deserves delightful companions that enhance its rich flavors and textures.

Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy chill complements the warm, fudgy cake, creating a blissful contrast that feels like a cozy hug.
Fresh Berries Salad: A medley of ripe berries brightens each bite, echoing the strawberry filling while adding a refreshing quality to the dessert.
Chocolate Ganache Drizzle: Pouring a glossy layer of ganache over the cake intensifies the chocolate experience, adding an indulgent richness that’s simply irresistible.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy, it balances the cake’s density, introducing a fluffy texture that elevates the overall experience.
Coffee: A smooth cup of brewed coffee enhances the cake’s flavors while providing a delightful contrast to the sweetness.
Sparkling Water with Lime: Refreshing and zesty, it cleanses the palate between bites, making each delicious slice even more enjoyable.
Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: These decadent treats beautifully mirror the flavors of the cake while providing a touch of elegance to your dessert table.

Serve any of these options alongside your Strawberry Chocolate Cake, and watch the smiles bloom at your next gathering!

Expert Tips for the Best Strawberry Chocolate Cake

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure eggs and milk are at room temperature for better emulsion and a lighter cake texture.
Level Layers: After baking, use a serrated knife to level cake layers for a neat and stable stack; uneven layers can cause the cake to tilt.
Avoid Overmixing: Gently mix the batter until just combined to prevent dense cake. Overmixing develops gluten, resulting in a tougher texture.
Test for Doneness: Use a toothpick to check if the cake is done. It should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached—not wet batter.
Whipped Cream Touch: For a lighter frosting, gently fold in whipped cream into the strawberry cream cheese frosting to add airiness.
Enjoy creating your own beautiful Strawberry Chocolate Cake today!

Strawberry Chocolate Cake Recipe FAQs

How do I select ripe strawberries for the cake?
Absolutely! Look for strawberries that are vibrant red, firm, and free from dark spots or bruises. Ripe strawberries should also have a sweet fragrance. Avoid any with a dull appearance or significant blemishes. Fresh, seasonal strawberries will provide the best flavor for both the jam and the final decoration.

What’s the best way to store the finished Strawberry Chocolate Cake?
To keep your Strawberry Chocolate Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This will help maintain its moisture and flavors. If serving at a later date, wrap individual cake layers tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil and freeze for up to a month.

Can I freeze the Strawberry Chocolate Cake?
Certainly! To freeze, bake and cool the cake layers completely. Wrap each layer in two layers of plastic wrap followed by a layer of aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Place them in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to use, let them thaw overnight in the fridge before frosting and serving.

What should I do if my cake doesn’t rise properly?
Very! If your cake doesn’t rise, it could be due to expired baking powder or baking soda. Make sure they’re fresh—check the expiration dates! Additionally, ensure that you’re measuring the ingredients accurately, especially the leavening agents and flour. Mixing too much can also lead to a denser cake, so fold gently until just combined.

Are there any dietary considerations for the Strawberry Chocolate Cake?
Absolutely! This cake contains gluten and dairy, so for gluten-free options, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. For a dairy-free version, use coconut oil instead of butter and non-dairy cream cheese for the frosting. Always check for allergies with loved ones before serving to ensure everyone can enjoy this delightful dessert.