Chocolate Cake with Fresh Strawberry Filling: A Celebration of Flavor 🍓🍫
Introduction
This chocolate cake with fresh strawberry filling is the ultimate dessert for every occasion! Moist, rich chocolate layers paired with tangy, fruity strawberry filling and creamy chocolate frosting create a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether you’re baking for a party or indulging in a treat-yourself moment, this cake is guaranteed to impress both your eyes and taste buds.
Ingredients
Cake Layers:
- 2 large eggs 🥚
- 1¾ cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1½ cups sugar 🍬
- 1½ tsp baking powder
- 1½ tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp salt 🧂
- 1 cup whole milk 🥛
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 tsp vanilla extract 🌼
- 1 cup boiling water 💧
Strawberry Filling:
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled & sliced 🍓
- ¼ cup sugar 🍬
- 1 tbsp lemon juice 🍋
- ¼ cup cornstarch
- 1 cup water 💧
Chocolate Frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened 🧈
- 4 cups powdered sugar 🍬
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ¼ cup heavy cream 🥛
- 2 tsp vanilla extract 🌼
Directions
1. Bake the Cake Layers:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch cake pans.
- In a large bowl, beat sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined. Add milk and vegetable oil; mix thoroughly.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until smooth.
- Stir in the boiling water to thin the batter.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
2. Prepare the Strawberry Filling:
- In a medium saucepan, combine strawberries, sugar, lemon juice, cornstarch, and water.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens and the strawberries soften (about 5–10 minutes).
- Remove from heat and allow the filling to cool completely.
3. Assemble the Cake:
- Once the cake layers are completely cooled, level the tops if needed for even stacking.
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread the cooled strawberry filling evenly over the top.
- Place the second cake layer on top, ensuring it’s centered.
4. Make the Chocolate Frosting:
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
- Gradually add powdered sugar and cocoa powder, beating well after each addition.
- Add heavy cream and vanilla extract, then beat until the frosting is light, fluffy, and spreadable.
5. Frost the Cake:
- Spread a thin layer of frosting over the entire cake to create a crumb coat. Refrigerate for 15 minutes to set.
- Apply the remaining frosting evenly over the cake for a smooth, finished look.
6. Garnish (Optional):
- Decorate the top with fresh strawberries for a pop of color and extra elegance.
Tips for a Perfect Chocolate Cake
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs, butter, and milk are at room temperature for a smoother batter and frosting.
- Leveling Layers: Use a serrated knife or a cake leveler for even layers, ensuring the cake sits flat when stacked.
- Filling Consistency: If the strawberry filling is too runny, cook it for a little longer until it reaches a jam-like texture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use frozen strawberries for the filling?
- Yes! Thaw the strawberries completely and drain any excess liquid before cooking.
2. What if my frosting is too thick or too runny?
- If the frosting is too thick, add a tablespoon of heavy cream at a time until it reaches the desired consistency. If it’s too runny, add more powdered sugar.
3. How do I store the cake?
- Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Bring it to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.
Common Mistakes and Solutions
1. Dry Cake Layers
- Overbaking can dry out the cake. Check for doneness with a toothpick and remove the cakes as soon as it comes out clean.
2. Uneven Layers
- Use a scale to evenly divide the batter between pans, and ensure they’re level before baking.
3. Runny Filling
- Ensure the filling thickens while cooking by stirring constantly and allowing it to cook for the full 5–10 minutes.
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