The Chocolate Strawberry Layer Cake is a showstopper dessert that effortlessly combines decadent chocolate, lusciously smooth ganache, and ripe, juicy strawberries for a treat that tastes as spectacular as it looks. Each bite brings layers of deeply flavored, moist chocolate cake paired with velvet-smooth chocolate filling and the brightness of fresh strawberries. This cake is pure celebration baked into every forkful, making it perfect for birthdays, family gatherings, or just because you’re craving a delicious slice of happiness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Chocolate Strawberry Layer Cake lies in how a handful of pantry staples and fresh strawberries come together for amazing taste and stunning presentation. Every ingredient brings its own magic, whether it’s rich chocolate flavor, tender crumb, or that final burst of freshness on top.
- All-purpose flour: Gives the cake a soft yet sturdy structure ideal for layering and holding in all that delicious ganache.
- Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness to balance the intensity of the chocolate and ties all the flavors together.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: Provides that deep, irresistible chocolate flavor and a gorgeous dark color.
- Baking powder: Ensures your cake layers rise evenly and have a delicate texture.
- Baking soda: Works with baking powder and buttermilk for extra lift and tenderness in the crumb.
- Salt: Enhances the chocolate flavor and keeps the cake from tasting flat.
- Buttermilk (room temperature): Adds tanginess and moisture, making every bite extra soft and flavorful.
- Vegetable oil: Keeps the cake ultra-moist and tender, even days after baking.
- Large eggs (room temperature): Bring structure and richness while helping bind the batter together.
- Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth, rounding out all the chocolatey notes.
- Hot coffee (or hot water): Intensifies the chocolate and keeps the batter smooth and pourable; use water if you prefer a milder chocolate kick.
- Heavy cream: Forming the luxurious base of the chocolate ganache that fills and coats the cake.
- Semi-sweet chocolate, finely chopped: Melts easily into the cream for the ganache; choose good quality for the best flavor.
- Unsalted butter: Gives the ganache extra silkiness and that beautiful glossy finish.
- Whipped cream: Fluffy clouds of whipped cream on top add contrast and a touch of elegance.
- Fresh strawberries: Sweet, juicy strawberries create color and brightness in every layer and as a stunning garnish.
- Cocoa powder (optional, for dusting): Adds a touch of flair and deepens the chocolate aroma right before serving.
How to Make Chocolate Strawberry Layer Cake
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Pans and Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing and lining three 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper. This step ensures your Chocolate Strawberry Layer Cake pops effortlessly out of the pans with those perfectly defined edges, ready for stacking and filling.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Sifting not only breaks up lumps but also helps create a fluffier, more evenly textured cake—totally worth the extra minute!
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients and Mix
Add the buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract to the dry mixture. Beat everything together until your batter is smooth and creamy. The buttermilk and oil help guarantee a tender crumb, while the eggs and vanilla add richness and flavor.
Step 4: Incorporate Hot Coffee
Pour in the hot coffee (or hot water if you want a subtler chocolate taste) and gently stir. Don’t worry, the batter will look quite thin but that’s the secret to a gorgeously moist cake. The hot liquid bloomed cocoa for extra flavor and ensures a delicate crumb.
Step 5: Bake and Cool the Cake Layers
Divide the batter evenly among your prepared pans and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. Test with a toothpick—if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, your cakes are done. Allow the layers to cool completely on wire racks before assembling. This wait is tough (the chocolate aroma is heavenly!) but absolutely necessary for clean, stable stacking.
Step 6: Prepare the Chocolate Ganache Filling
While your cakes cool, heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan until just simmering, not boiling. Pour it over chopped semi-sweet chocolate and butter in a bowl, cover, and let it sit for 2 minutes. Stir until the mixture is silky smooth, then chill for about 30 minutes until the ganache thickens up but remains spreadable—this luscious filling is about to take your Chocolate Strawberry Layer Cake to the next level.
Step 7: Assemble the Cake Layers
Place your first cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of chocolate ganache over the top, followed by a scattering of fresh sliced strawberries for a juicy burst in every bite. Repeat with the next two layers, finishing with ganache and a waterfall effect down the sides. The glossy, chocolate drip look is part of this cake’s signature beauty!
Step 8: Decorate and Garnish
Finish your masterpiece with dollops or swirls of whipped cream, then crown the top with whole or sliced strawberries. A light dusting of cocoa powder is optional but adds an extra touch of drama and allure. You’ll want to snap a photo before you slice!
How to Serve Chocolate Strawberry Layer Cake
Garnishes
Take your Chocolate Strawberry Layer Cake over the top by adding billowy whipped cream and a flourish of bright, juicy strawberries—both whole and sliced for dimension. A delicate sprinkle of cocoa powder or even some shaved chocolate can make every slice feel like it’s straight from a bakery window.
Side Dishes
This cake is truly the star, but you can pair it with scoops of vanilla bean ice cream, a cool glass of milk, or even a lightly sweetened berry compote. For a truly special occasion, serve with coffee, espresso, or a sparkling rosé to complement the strawberries and chocolate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning party centerpiece, arrange extra strawberries around the base or tuck mint sprigs for a touch of green. Try cutting thin slices and layering them artfully on individual plates for a more elegant, restaurant-style presentation. Mini versions of the cake baked in ramekins or as cupcakes turn this classic Chocolate Strawberry Layer Cake into party-friendly treats.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap leftovers of your Chocolate Strawberry Layer Cake tightly in plastic wrap or cover in an airtight cake box. Store in the refrigerator for up to five days—the flavors meld beautifully and the cake stays just as rich and moist. If you decorated with fresh strawberries, check daily for peak freshness.
Freezing
If you want to make the cake ahead, wrap unfrosted cake layers individually and freeze for up to three months. For a fully assembled cake, freeze it uncovered until solid, then wrap tightly and return to the freezer. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving; fresh strawberries are best added just before you dig in.
Reheating
Chocolate Strawberry Layer Cake is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, so no need to reheat. If you’d like a slightly gooey ganache, let slices sit out for 10 to 15 minutes before serving. A quick zap in the microwave is only recommended if you skipped the whipped cream and strawberries for storage.
FAQs
Can I use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet for the ganache?
Absolutely! Dark chocolate brings a richer, slightly more intense flavor to the ganache. Just be sure to taste as you go—since some dark chocolates are more bitter, you might want to add a touch more sugar if desired.
What if I don’t have buttermilk?
No buttermilk? No problem! Mix 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice with 1 cup of milk, let it sit for five minutes, and use as a homemade substitute that mimics the tang and tenderness of true buttermilk.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour for the regular all-purpose flour. Double-check that your cocoa powder and chocolate are gluten-free as well to keep every layer safe for sensitive guests.
How far in advance can I assemble the cake?
You can assemble the Chocolate Strawberry Layer Cake a day in advance. Just store it covered in the fridge, then add fresh strawberries and a dusting of cocoa powder right before serving to keep everything looking bright and beautiful.
Can I turn this into a sheet cake?
Definitely! Instead of three round pans, bake the batter in a 9×13-inch pan and adjust baking time as needed. Layer ganache and strawberries on top for a simpler, yet still stunning, version of this classic treat.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for pure joy in cake form, this Chocolate Strawberry Layer Cake is truly one to cherish and share. Treat yourself and your loved ones to its fudgy layers and fresh flavors—you’ll soon find it’s a recipe people request again and again!