If you have a soft spot for luscious desserts that bring together the best of chocolate and fresh fruit, then you are in for a real treat with this Chocolate Strawberry Layer Cake with Ganache Recipe. Imagine moist layers of rich cocoa cake dotted with strawberries, all generously enveloped in a shiny, velvety ganache that melts in your mouth. This cake is the perfect harmony of sweet, tangy, and decadent, making it a beautiful centerpiece for any gathering or a special indulgence to brighten your day. Once you try this recipe, it’s sure to become one of your all-time favorites!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Chocolate Strawberry Layer Cake with Ganache Recipe plays a crucial role, from providing structure and moisture to delivering bursts of flavor and that melt-in-your-mouth texture. Each component is straightforward and easy to find, ensuring this cake is as simple to make as it is irresistible.
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour: Provides the perfect base and crumb for the cake layers.
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Adds the rich chocolate flavor that makes this cake divine.
- 2 cups granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter and balances the tartness of the strawberries.
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder: Helps the cake rise and become fluffy.
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda: Works with the cocoa and acids for a tender texture.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors in the cake.
- 2 large eggs: Binds ingredients together and adds richness.
- 1 cup whole milk: Adds moisture and helps blend flavors smoothly.
- ½ cup vegetable oil: Keeps the cake moist and soft.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Elevates the overall aroma and enhances sweetness.
- 1 cup boiling water: Intensifies the chocolate flavor and creates a smooth batter.
- 1 cup finely chopped fresh strawberries: Brings bursts of juicy, fresh fruit to every bite.
- 1 cup heavy cream: The base for the luscious ganache topping.
- 8 oz semisweet chocolate (chopped): Turns into silky, shiny ganache that coats the cake.
- 1 tablespoon butter: Adds richness and glossy finish to the ganache.
- 1 cup sliced fresh strawberries for topping: Decorative and adds fresh, fruity contrast.
How to Make Chocolate Strawberry Layer Cake with Ganache Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Cake Pans and Preheat
This simple initial step sets the stage for your baking success. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans thoroughly—this ensures your cakes come out cleanly without sticking, preserving those beautiful layers for stacking.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. These dry ingredients create the perfect structure and chocolate foundation for your cake.
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients and Combine
To your dry mixture, add the eggs, whole milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Mix everything thoroughly until just combined—overmixing can lead to a dense cake, so be gentle.
Step 4: Incorporate Boiling Water and Strawberries
Slowly pour in the boiling water, stirring continuously; this hot water intensifies the cocoa’s richness and creates a smooth, thin batter that bakes into a moist cake. Fold in the finely chopped fresh strawberries gently, so you get juicy bursts in every slice.
Step 5: Bake Your Cake Layers
Divide the batter evenly into your prepared pans. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Then, allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before turning them out onto wire racks to cool completely. Cooling entirely is key to avoid melting your ganache when assembling the layers.
Step 6: Make the Silky Ganache
Heat the heavy cream in a saucepan just until it simmers—do not boil. Pour the hot cream over the chopped semisweet chocolate and let it sit for 2 minutes to soften. Add the butter and stir until the mixture is smooth and glossy. Let the ganache cool slightly until it thickens but remains pourable, perfect for layering your cake.
Step 7: Assemble the Cake
Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous layer of ganache over it. Top this with a layer of sliced fresh strawberries to add freshness and texture. Then set the second cake layer on top, pouring the remaining ganache over the top, allowing it to luxuriously drip down the sides. Garnish with more sliced strawberries and chill the cake for at least 30 minutes to set everything beautifully.
How to Serve Chocolate Strawberry Layer Cake with Ganache Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh sliced strawberries on top aren’t just for looks—they bring a delightful fruity zing that cuts through the ganache’s richness. You can also add a sprinkle of finely chopped nuts or shredded coconut for extra texture and visual appeal.
Side Dishes
Pair your Cake with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of lightly whipped cream to add a creamy contrast. A fresh berry salad or a cup of fragrant coffee makes this dessert an experience to savor.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving individual slices with a drizzle of raspberry coulis or a dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant touch. For gatherings, consider layering the components in clear glass trifle dishes to showcase the beautiful strata of cake, ganache, and strawberries.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftover cake covered in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The ganache stays smooth and fresh, while the strawberries remain juicy. It’s best enjoyed within 3 days to savor peak flavor and texture.
Freezing
You can freeze this cake by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. For best results, freeze without garnishing strawberries on top, and thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Ganache may firm up but will soften beautifully once brought to room temperature before serving.
Reheating
This cake is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, so reheating is generally not necessary. If desired, you can let slices sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to take the chill off before serving.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Fresh strawberries are ideal for this recipe to avoid excess moisture that frozen berries release when thawed. If using frozen, make sure to drain them well and pat dry to keep the cake from becoming soggy.
Is it possible to make this cake dairy-free?
Absolutely. Substitute the whole milk with a non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk, use dairy-free chocolate for the ganache, and swap heavy cream for full-fat coconut cream to maintain that rich consistency.
How far in advance can I make this cake?
You can bake the cake layers a day ahead and prepare the ganache the same day you plan to assemble. Keep everything refrigerated and assemble a few hours before serving for the freshest taste and best texture.
Can I add whipped cream between the layers?
Yes! Adding a layer of lightly sweetened whipped cream between the ganache layers adds a beautiful lightness and creamy texture, complementing the strawberries and chocolate perfectly.
What type of chocolate works best for the ganache?
Semisweet chocolate is a great middle ground, providing a balanced sweetness. For a deeper, richer flavor, you can use dark chocolate. Milk chocolate would make the ganache sweeter and lighter, so choose according to your taste preference.
Final Thoughts
This Chocolate Strawberry Layer Cake with Ganache Recipe is one of those rare desserts that makes any occasion feel special. The combination of moist cocoa cake, fresh strawberries, and decadent ganache creates a dessert that’s truly unforgettable. I wholeheartedly encourage you to try this delightful recipe—it’s not only a joy to bake but also a guaranteed way to bring smiles and satisfaction to every table!
Print
Chocolate Strawberry Layer Cake with Ganache Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Irresistible Chocolate Strawberry Cake combines rich chocolate layers with fresh strawberries, topped with a smooth chocolate ganache. Perfect for chocolate lovers who enjoy a fruity twist, this dessert offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures that make it a show-stopper for any occasion.
Ingredients
Cake Ingredients
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 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
- 1 cup finely chopped fresh strawberries
Ganache Ingredients
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 oz semisweet chocolate, chopped
- 1 tablespoon butter
Topping
- 1 cup sliced fresh strawberries
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans to ensure your cakes release easily after baking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This creates the base for your cake batter.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Add the eggs, whole milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry mixture. Mix until all ingredients are well combined and you have a smooth batter.
- Add Boiling Water: Slowly stir in the boiling water, mixing until the batter is smooth and evenly blended. This step helps create a moist chocolate cake.
- Incorporate Strawberries: Gently fold in the finely chopped fresh strawberries to the batter to add a fresh, fruity element throughout the cake.
- Divide and Bake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean indicating the cakes are done.
- Cool the Cakes: Let the cakes cool in their pans for about 10 minutes, then transfer them onto wire racks to cool completely before assembling the cake.
- Prepare Ganache: In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream until it just begins to simmer. Pour the hot cream over the chopped semisweet chocolate in a bowl and let it sit for 2 minutes to melt the chocolate.
- Finish Ganache: Add the tablespoon of butter, then stir the mixture until the ganache is smooth and glossy. Allow it to cool slightly until it thickens but remains pourable.
- Assemble the Cake: Place one cake layer on your serving plate and spread a generous amount of ganache on top. Add a layer of sliced fresh strawberries on the ganache.
- Top and Garnish: Place the second cake layer over the strawberries. Pour the remaining ganache over the top, letting it drip down the sides. Garnish with extra sliced strawberries for a beautiful finish.
- Chill and Serve: Chill the assembled cake in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving, allowing the ganache to set and flavors to meld.
Notes
- For a richer chocolate flavor, substitute semisweet chocolate with dark chocolate in the ganache.
- Add a layer of whipped cream between the two cake layers for added texture and creaminess.
- Ensure the cakes are completely cooled before assembling to prevent the ganache from melting.
- Fresh strawberries can be substituted with frozen ones, but be sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid extra moisture in the batter.
