Chocolate Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake
Highlighted under: Sweet Treat Creations
Indulge in the decadence of this Chocolate Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake, where rich chocolate meets fresh strawberries in an unforgettable dessert.
This Chocolate Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake is a perfect blend of rich chocolate cake layers and fresh strawberries, making it a delightful treat for any occasion. Whether it's a birthday, anniversary, or just a weekend indulgence, this cake is sure to impress!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh strawberry slices
- Moist layers that melt in your mouth
- Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence
The Perfect Combination of Flavors
This Chocolate Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake is a delightful fusion of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. The rich, velvety chocolate cake serves as the perfect backdrop for the vibrant and juicy strawberries. Each bite offers a stunning contrast between the deep cocoa notes and the fresh, fruity sweetness of the strawberries. It’s a match made in dessert heaven that will leave both chocolate lovers and strawberry enthusiasts equally satisfied.
The layers of this cake not only deliver an impressive visual presentation but also create a delightful textural experience. The moist chocolate cake layers, combined with the tender, juicy strawberries and light, airy whipped cream, make every forkful a treat. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself, this cake is sure to impress.
A Showstopper for Any Occasion
Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, or a simple gathering with friends, this Chocolate Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake is the perfect centerpiece for any celebration. Its stunning layers and vibrant colors will catch the eye of your guests, while the delicious flavors will keep them coming back for seconds. This cake is an excellent choice for those looking to make a memorable impression.
Not only is this cake visually appealing, but it’s also highly customizable. Feel free to add your twist by incorporating different fruits or flavorings into the whipped cream frosting. You can also experiment with different cake sizes or shapes, making it a versatile recipe that can adapt to your needs.
Tips for Success
To ensure your Chocolate Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake turns out perfectly, consider a few key tips. First, make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature before mixing; this will help create a smoother batter. When it comes to baking, keep an eye on your cakes as oven temperatures can vary. Use the toothpick test to check for doneness, ensuring you don’t overbake.
For the best results with the strawberry filling, allow the strawberries to sit with sugar for at least 15 minutes. This process helps draw out their natural juices, intensifying their flavor and making for a more luscious filling. Lastly, when whipping the cream, start with a chilled bowl and beaters, which will help achieve those perfect stiff peaks.
Ingredients
For the Chocolate Cake
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ¾ 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
For the Strawberry Filling
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
For the Whipped Cream Frosting
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Make sure to use fresh strawberries for the best flavor!
Instructions
Prepare the Cake Batter
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Bake the Cakes
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans. Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
Prepare the Strawberry Filling
In a bowl, combine the sliced strawberries with sugar and set aside for about 15 minutes until they release their juices.
Make the Whipped Cream Frosting
In a chilled bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to overbeat.
Assemble the Cake
Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread half of the strawberry filling on top, followed by a layer of whipped cream. Place the second cake layer on top and repeat the process.
Chill the cake for a bit before serving for better slicing.
Storage Recommendations
If you have any leftovers, storing your Chocolate Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake is easy. Place the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness. It’s best enjoyed within 3-4 days, though it may last longer if stored properly. Just keep in mind that the strawberries may release more juice over time, so it’s advised to consume it sooner rather than later.
If you want to prepare the cake ahead of time, consider making the chocolate cake layers and the strawberry filling separately. You can store the cooled cake layers wrapped tightly in plastic wrap at room temperature for up to two days or in the freezer for longer storage. The strawberry filling can also be made in advance and kept refrigerated until you're ready to assemble.
Serving Suggestions
This Chocolate Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake is delicious on its own, but you can elevate the experience with some simple serving suggestions. Consider pairing each slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an extra indulgent treat. Fresh mint leaves can also add a refreshing touch when garnishing the plate.
For a more festive presentation, dust the top of the cake with powdered sugar just before serving. Not only does this add a beautiful finish, but it also enhances the overall flavor profile. Remember, presentation is key, and a well-decorated slice will always impress your guests!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, but fresh strawberries are recommended for the best flavor and texture.
→ How should I store the cake?
Keep the cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the cake layers a day in advance and assemble them just before serving.
→ Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Chocolate Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake
Indulge in the decadence of this Chocolate Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake, where rich chocolate meets fresh strawberries in an unforgettable dessert.
Created by: Olivia
Recipe Type: Sweet Treat Creations
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 12 servings
What You'll Need
For the Chocolate Cake
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ¾ 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
For the Strawberry Filling
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
For the Whipped Cream Frosting
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla. Mix until smooth. Gradually stir in the boiling water until well combined.
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans. Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
In a bowl, combine the sliced strawberries with sugar and set aside for about 15 minutes until they release their juices.
In a chilled bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to overbeat.
Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread half of the strawberry filling on top, followed by a layer of whipped cream. Place the second cake layer on top and repeat the process. Finally, frost the sides and top of the cake with the remaining whipped cream and decorate with the remaining strawberries.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g