Chocolate Strawberry Dream Cake

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:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Add the buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
4. Gradually stir in the boiling water until the batter is well combined and smooth. The batter will be thin.
5. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. 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:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, strawberry puree, and granulated sugar.
2. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture just begins to simmer.
3. If you prefer a thicker filling, mix the cornstarch with a little water to make a slurry, then stir it into the mixture.
4. Cook until slightly thickened, then remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Allow the filling to cool to room temperature before using.

3. Prepare the Chocolate Ganache:

1. In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it begins to simmer.
2. Remove from heat and add the chopped chocolate. Let it sit for 2-3 minutes, then stir until smooth.
3. Stir in the unsalted butter until the ganache is glossy and well combined. Allow it to cool slightly before using.

4. Assemble the Cake:

1. If necessary, level the tops of the cooled cake layers with a knife to ensure an even surface.
2. Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand.
3. Spread the cooled strawberry filling evenly over the top of the first layer.
4. Place the second cake layer on top of the strawberry filling.

5. Frost and Garnish:

1. Pour the chocolate ganache over the top of the cake, allowing it to drizzle down the sides.
2. Garnish with fresh strawberries and chocolate shavings or sprinkles if desired.

6. Serve and Enjoy:

1. Let the cake set for a bit so the ganache can firm up before slicing.
2. 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!