Chocolate Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake
Highlighted under: Dessert Recipe Collection
Indulge in the delightful combination of rich chocolate and fresh strawberries with this gorgeous layer cake.
This Chocolate Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake is a perfect dessert for any celebration. The combination of rich chocolate cake, fresh strawberries, and whipped cream creates a mouthwatering treat that is sure to impress your guests.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh strawberries
- Light and fluffy texture that melts in your mouth
- Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence
The Perfect Dessert for Any Occasion
This Chocolate Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake is not just a feast for the eyes; it's a celebration of flavors and textures that will elevate any gathering. Whether you're hosting a birthday party, an anniversary dinner, or simply want to indulge in a sweet treat, this cake is the perfect choice. Its layers of rich chocolate cake and fresh strawberries create a harmonious blend that pleases both chocolate lovers and fruit enthusiasts alike.
The versatility of this cake makes it suitable for various occasions. You can dress it up with fresh berries and mint leaves for a formal event or keep it simple for a cozy family dinner. No matter how you serve it, this cake is sure to impress your guests and leave them asking for seconds.
Tips for Baking Success
Baking a layer cake can be daunting, but with a few handy tips, you can ensure perfection every time. First, be precise with your measurements—baking is a science, and the right ratios make all the difference. Use a kitchen scale for accuracy or level off measuring cups with a straight edge to avoid packing ingredients, especially flour.
Also, make sure your ingredients are at room temperature before you begin. This helps to create a smooth batter and ensures even baking. Lastly, remember to check your oven temperature with an oven thermometer to guarantee that it’s accurate; an oven that’s too hot or cold can affect the rise and texture of your cake.
Storing and Serving Suggestions
Once you've put in the effort to bake this delightful cake, you'll want to ensure it stays fresh for as long as possible. Store the assembled cake in the refrigerator, covered with a cake dome or plastic wrap, to keep it moist. It can last for about 3-4 days in the fridge, but it's so delicious that it might not last that long!
When serving, consider adding a drizzle of chocolate sauce or a sprinkle of cocoa powder on top for an elegant touch. Pair slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or fresh whipped cream to elevate the dessert experience. This cake is best enjoyed chilled, making it a refreshing treat, especially in warm weather.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to create this delicious cake:
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 measure your ingredients accurately for the best results!
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your Chocolate Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake:
Prepare the Chocolate Cake
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
Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into 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 and granulated sugar. Let them sit for about 10 minutes to release their juices.
Make the Whipped Cream Frosting
In a chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to whip until stiff peaks form.
Assemble the Cake
Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread half of the whipped cream frosting on top, then add half of the strawberry filling. Place the second cake layer on top and repeat with the remaining frosting and strawberries.
Your Chocolate Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake is now ready to be enjoyed!
Frequently Asked Questions
One common question about this Chocolate Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake is whether it can be made ahead of time. Absolutely! You can bake the chocolate cakes a day in advance and store them wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature. Just wait to assemble the cake until the day you plan to serve it to maintain the freshness of the whipped cream and strawberries.
Another frequently asked question is about alternatives for the whipped cream frosting. If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute with a Greek yogurt frosting or a cream cheese blend, which will still provide a delicious contrast to the rich chocolate and fruity filling.
Variations to Try
While the classic combination of chocolate and strawberries is a crowd-pleaser, you can get creative with this recipe. Consider substituting the strawberries with other fruits like raspberries or cherries for a different flavor profile. Each fruit brings its unique sweetness and tartness, allowing you to customize the cake to your liking.
For a richer experience, try adding a layer of chocolate ganache between the cake layers or drizzling it over the top. This will enhance the chocolate flavor and add a luxurious texture that pairs beautifully with the lightness of the whipped cream.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but be sure to thaw and drain them before using.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the cake layers a day in advance and store them wrapped in plastic wrap.
→ What can I substitute for eggs?
You can use unsweetened applesauce or a flaxseed meal mixture as a substitute for eggs.
Chocolate Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake
Indulge in the delightful combination of rich chocolate and fresh strawberries with this gorgeous layer cake.
Created by: Emma Johnson
Recipe Type: Dessert Recipe Collection
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 8 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, oil, and vanilla, and mix until well combined. Stir in the boiling water until the batter is smooth. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into 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 and granulated sugar. Let them sit for about 10 minutes to release their juices.
In a chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to whip until stiff peaks form.
Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread half of the whipped cream frosting on top, then add half of the strawberry filling. Place the second cake layer on top and repeat with the remaining frosting and 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