Introduction to Strawberry Chocolate Cake
There’s something utterly enchanting about a strawberry chocolate cake that draws us in, bringing together two beloved flavors that evoke pure indulgence. Imagine a warm summer day, where the sun is shining and the scent of ripe strawberries fills the air—this dessert captures that nostalgic essence, making it not just a treat, but a delightful experience.
The marriage of strawberries and chocolate creates a remarkable balance. Strawberries offer a burst of freshness and tartness, harmonizing beautifully with the rich, velvety taste of chocolate. This enticing combination isn’t merely delicious; it sparks joy and celebration, perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or a simple afternoon pick-me-up. When you slice into this cake, the luscious layers reveal a stunning contrast of deep chocolate and vibrant strawberry hues that makes it as much a feast for the eyes as for the palate.
The magic of combining strawberries and chocolate
Have you ever wondered what makes strawberries and chocolate pairing so irresistible? It’s a classic duo, appearing in various desserts, from fondue to ice cream. The contrasting flavors create a symphony of taste—for those who enjoy sweet treats, this resonance can elevate any occasion. The fruity tang of strawberries cuts through the sweetness of chocolate, balancing the flavors brilliantly.
Incorporating strawberries into a chocolate cake doesn’t just enhance flavor; it adds moisture and a touch of elegance. Plus, you can play around with textures—whether opting for fresh slices between layers or a decadent strawberry puree swirled into the batter, the possibilities are endless.
To make this cake your own, consider adding a layer of fluffy whipped cream or sprinkling chocolate shavings on top. Each bite is an adventure, allowing you to savor not just the cake itself, but also the memories and moments you create while sharing it with friends and family. Embrace the joy of baking this strawberry chocolate cake—it’s a delicious way to celebrate life’s sweet moments.
Key Ingredients for Strawberry Chocolate Cake
Strawberry Jam
For a delectable layer of flavor, I always opt to make my own strawberry jam using fresh or frozen strawberries. The vibrant notes from the berries stand out beautifully in this cake. A bit of granulated sugar and a splash of water help to create the ideal fruity base that balances perfectly with the chocolate.
Chocolate Cake
The heart of this cake is the rich chocolate cake made with all-purpose flour and natural cocoa powder. Combining melted butter with both granulated and brown sugars adds a deep, luscious flavor profile. The eggs and milk contribute to a moist and tender texture, ensuring each bite is as indulgent as it is comforting.
Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting
The crowning glory of your strawberry chocolate cake is the creamy frosting. By whipping together cream cheese and butter, you achieve that dreamy texture. Powdered sugar and a hint of vanilla enhance the sweetness, while incorporating homemade strawberry jam merges the flavors beautifully, infusing every slice with delightful berry goodness.
Filling and Toppings
To take your cake presentation to the next level, fresh strawberries, both diced and halved, not only add visual appeal but also enhance the cake’s flavor. Each bite filled with berry pieces creates a harmonious blend that is hard to resist.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Indulging in a strawberry chocolate cake is an experience that encapsulates joy and nostalgia. The first time I baked this cake, I was reminiscing about summer picnics and family gatherings, where the sweet scent of strawberries lingered in the air. This recipe has a way of transporting you back to those cherished moments, all while delighting your taste buds.
What makes this cake a standout?
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Decadent Flavor: The fusion of rich chocolate and fresh strawberries creates an unforgettable taste sensation. It’s like a sweet symphony that plays with your palate.
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Beautiful Presentation: Imagine a cake that looks as good as it tastes. The vibrant red strawberries against the dark chocolate layers make for an eye-catching centerpiece at any gathering.
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Simplicity at Its Best: This recipe is straightforward and easy to follow. You don’t have to be a professional baker to impress your friends and family.
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Versatile Enjoyment: Whether it’s a birthday celebration or a casual weeknight dessert, this strawberry chocolate cake fits the bill perfectly. Serve it alone or pair it with whipped cream for an extravagant touch.
Your tastebuds deserve this delightful adventure, and this cake is here to deliver. Get ready to fall in love with every slice!
Cooking Tips and Notes
Creating an exquisite strawberry chocolate cake is not just about following a recipe; it’s about bringing your heart into the kitchen. Having baked this delightful dessert countless times, I’ve discovered some tips and tricks that elevate this cake from good to unforgettable.
Choosing the Right Strawberries
Opt for the freshest strawberries you can find. They should be plump and fragrant, signaling ripeness. This freshness translates into a vibrant flavor in your cake.
Perfecting the Chocolate Ganache
For the ganache, using high-quality chocolate makes a significant difference. Melted chocolate should be smooth and glossy, providing a rich topping that complements the sweetness of the strawberries.
Mixing the Batter
Avoid overmixing the batter to keep the strawberry chocolate cake light and airy. Mixing just until the ingredients combine ensures a tender crumb.
Baking Time
Every oven is different, so keep an eye on your cake as it bakes. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean but moist—this ensures your cake is perfectly baked without being dry.
Storage Tips
Leftover cake? Store it in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness, but allow it to come to room temperature before serving for that cake to shine!
With these insights, your strawberry chocolate cake will surely impress family and friends alike. Happy baking!
Time Breakdown for Strawberry Chocolate Cake
Creating a delightful strawberry chocolate cake requires more than just magic in the kitchen; it’s about time management, too! Knowing how long to spend on each step makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Preparation Time
Getting everything ready for your strawberry chocolate cake will take about 30 minutes. This includes gathering ingredients, measuring, and mixing the batter. Make sure to give yourself this time so you can focus on achieving that perfect fluffy texture!
Baking Time
Once your batter is ready, pop it in the oven for about 30-35 minutes. Keep an eye on it, as oven temperatures can vary. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Total Time
From start to finish, you’re looking at around 1 hour and 5 minutes to 1 hour and 10 minutes to bring your scrumptious strawberry chocolate cake to life. This includes both preparation and baking time, giving you a delicious dessert with minimal fuss!
Nutritional Facts for Strawberry Chocolate Cake
When you’re indulging in a slice of strawberry chocolate cake, it’s helpful to know just what you’re savoring. This delightful dessert not only pleases your taste buds but also has some nutritional merits.
Calories
A typical serving of strawberry chocolate cake contains around 350 calories. While that may seem indulgent, it’s a once-in-a-while treat that packs flavor and satisfaction.
Protein
You can expect to find about 4 grams of protein per slice. It’s not a primary source of protein, but it contributes to the overall nutrient profile.
Sodium
Each piece has approximately 200 milligrams of sodium. This makes it a moderate option among sweet treats, allowing you to enjoy your cake without straying too far from your dietary goals.
Enjoy every bite, and remember: balance is key!
FAQs about Strawberry Chocolate Cake
When you’re savoring a slice of strawberry chocolate cake, you might have a few questions swirling in your mind. Let’s tackle those common queries to help you get the most out of your baking experience!
Can I use store-bought strawberry jam?
Absolutely! Using store-bought strawberry jam is a time-saver and can still provide delicious flavor to your strawberry chocolate cake. Just look for a high-quality jam with real strawberries for the best taste. If you prefer a smoother texture in your cake, you can blend the jam slightly or use a seedless variety.
How do I store leftover cake?
To keep your strawberry chocolate cake fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container. If the cake is frosted, it’s best to refrigerate it to maintain the cream cheese frosting’s texture. Alternatively, you can leave the cake at room temperature for a short time, but it’s best to consume it within 2-3 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing individual slices. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil for optimal freshness.
What can I substitute for the cream cheese in the frosting?
If you’re looking for an alternative to cream cheese in the frosting, Greek yogurt is a fantastic option. It provides a similar tangy flavor and creamy consistency. Another substitute you could try is mascarpone cheese, which gives a rich and luxurious texture. Just remember to adjust the sweetness to taste, as some substitutes might not be as sweet as cream cheese.
Feel free to reach out if you have more questions or need further assistance with your baking!
Conclusion on Strawberry Chocolate Cake
In the enticing world of desserts, strawberry chocolate cake stands out as a true masterpiece. Each slice showcases the delightful interplay between rich chocolate and fresh strawberries, making it the perfect indulgence for any occasion. Whether it’s a birthday party or a cozy evening at home, this cake leaves a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to taste it. Don’t hesitate to experiment with variations, perhaps a drizzle of ganache or a sprinkle of crushed nuts for added texture. With its blend of flavors and stunning presentation, this cake is sure to become a beloved staple in your baking repertoire.
PrintChocolate Cake with Strawberry Jam and Cream Cheese Frosting
A delightful chocolate cake layered with homemade strawberry jam and rich cream cheese frosting.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 8-10 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 500 g strawberries, fresh or frozen
- 50 g granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon water
- 190 g all-purpose flour
- 75 g natural cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 115 g unsalted butter, melted
- 100 g light-tasting oil
- 100 g granulated sugar
- 100 g brown sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 330 g milk, room temperature
- 250 g cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 115 g unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 100 g powdered sugar
- 70 g strawberry jam, from above
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 200 g strawberries, finely diced
- 7 strawberries, halved for decoration
Instructions
- Strawberry Jam: In a small pot, stir together strawberries, granulated sugar, and water. Cook over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until it comes to a boil. Be careful as the foam can bubble up as it boils. Continue cooking until the boiling subsides and the mixture thickens into a jammy consistency. The jam should part when you drag a spatula through it and then slowly come back together after a few seconds. Transfer the jam to a small bowl and let it cool completely in the fridge until you’re ready to use it.
- Chocolate Cake: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line the bottom of two 6″ round cake pans with parchment paper rounds. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together melted butter, oil, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until combined. Add the eggs and whisk together until smooth. Alternate adding half of the flour mixture and then half of the milk, mixing until just combined after each addition. Divide the batter evenly into your prepared cake pans (about 540g of batter in each pan). Bake cakes for about 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out mostly clean with some crumbs attached. Let the cakes cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before turning them out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
- Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric hand mixer to beat softened butter until it becomes very creamy. Add the cream cheese and continue beating until the cream cheese is smooth and creamy. Add the powdered sugar and beat on low speed until combined. Add the strawberry jam and vanilla extract and beat again until combined.
- Assemble the Cake: Use a serrated knife to level the cake layers and cut them in half to make four layers. On a cake turntable, lay down the first cake layer. Pipe a ring of frosting around the edge of the cake and fill with about 4 tablespoons of strawberry jam. Add diced strawberries on top of the jam and arrange into an even layer. Repeat with the rest of the cake layers. Apply a thin layer of frosting to the cake for the crumb coat and scrape away the excess. Apply a final coat of frosting and smooth with a scraper, adding some swirls in the frosting and pressing halved strawberries on top for decoration.
Notes
- This cake is best enjoyed fresh, but leftover slices can be stored in the refrigerator.
- Using fresh strawberries in the jam enhances flavor, but frozen strawberries will work in a pinch.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 797
- Sugar: 55
- Sodium: 410
- Fat: 51
- Saturated Fat: 25
- Unsaturated Fat: 9
- Trans Fat: 1
- Carbohydrates: 84
- Fiber: 6
- Protein: 10
- Cholesterol: 139
