Chocolate Strawberry Dream Cake is a decadent and dreamy dessert that combines the rich, deep flavors of chocolate with the sweet, fruity essence of strawberries. This recipe features a moist chocolate cake layered with creamy strawberry filling and topped with a luscious chocolate ganache. Here’s how you can make this show-stopping cake:
Chocolate Strawberry Dream Cake
Ingredients:
For the Chocolate Cake:
- 1 3/4 cups (220g) all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups (300g) granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup (75g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk
- 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup (240ml) boiling water
For the Strawberry Filling:
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
- 1/2 cup (120ml) strawberry puree (fresh or store-bought)
- 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
For the Chocolate Ganache:
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
- 8 ounces (225g) semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
For Garnish:
- Fresh strawberries (sliced or whole)
- Chocolate shavings or sprinkles
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chocolate Cake:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Add the buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
- Gradually stir in the boiling water until the batter is well combined and smooth. The batter will be thin.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to wire racks to cool completely.
2. Prepare the Strawberry Filling:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, strawberry puree, and granulated sugar.
- Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture just begins to simmer.
- If you prefer a thicker filling, mix the cornstarch with a little water to make a slurry, then stir it into the mixture.
- Cook until slightly thickened, then remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
- Allow the filling to cool to room temperature before using.
3. Prepare the Chocolate Ganache:
- In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it begins to simmer.
- Remove from heat and add the chopped chocolate. Let it sit for 2-3 minutes, then stir until smooth.
- Stir in the unsalted butter until the ganache is glossy and well combined. Allow it to cool slightly before using.
4. Assemble the Cake:
- If necessary, level the tops of the cooled cake layers with a knife to ensure an even surface.
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand.
- Spread the cooled strawberry filling evenly over the top of the first layer.
- Place the second cake layer on top of the strawberry filling.
5. Frost and Garnish:
- Pour the chocolate ganache over the top of the cake, allowing it to drizzle down the sides.
- Garnish with fresh strawberries and chocolate shavings or sprinkles if desired.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
- Let the cake set for a bit so the ganache can firm up before slicing.
- Serve and enjoy the rich, decadent layers of chocolate and strawberry!
Tips:
- Strawberry Puree: If using fresh strawberries, blend them until smooth to make the puree. You can also use store-bought puree.
- Chilling: Refrigerating the cake for a little while after frosting can help the ganache set and make slicing easier.
- Decorations: Feel free to get creative with decorations. Adding a few fresh mint leaves or a drizzle of extra strawberry puree can enhance the presentation.
This Chocolate Strawberry Dream Cake is a perfect indulgence for special occasions or as a delightful treat for any day of the week. Enjoy!