Chocolate Cake with Strawberries: 5 Simple Steps to Delight

Name: **Chocolate Cake with Strawberries: 5 Simple Steps to Delight**
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 cups sugar; 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder; 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 large eggs; 1 cup whole milk; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 cup boiling water; 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced

June 1, 2025

By:

Julia marin

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

There’s something truly magical about a homemade chocolate cake, especially when it’s topped with fresh, juicy strawberries. This recipe has been a staple in my kitchen for years, and I can’t help but smile every time I make it. The aroma of rich chocolate wafting through the house is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. It’s a comforting dessert that brings back memories of family gatherings and celebrations. Trust me, there’s nothing quite like seeing the delight on your loved ones’ faces as they take that first bite!

chocolate cake with strawberries - detail 1

This chocolate cake with strawberries is not just delicious; it’s also surprisingly easy to prepare! Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just treating yourself, this cake is all about joy and simplicity. The best part? It’s perfect for sharing. I always say that food tastes better when enjoyed with friends and family. So, let’s dive into making this delightful dessert that will surely become a favorite in your home, just like it has in mine!

Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delightful chocolate cake with strawberries. I’ve made sure to list everything clearly so you can gather your ingredients with ease. Let’s get started!

1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups sugar
3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
2 large eggs
1 cup whole milk
1/2 cup vegetable oil
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup boiling water
2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced

Feel free to make substitutions if you have dietary needs! For a gluten-free version, just swap out the all-purpose flour for a good gluten-free blend. You can also use almond milk instead of whole milk if you prefer. These little tweaks can make your cake just as delicious while fitting your lifestyle!

How to Prepare the Chocolate Cake with Strawberries

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s get down to the fun part! Making this chocolate cake with strawberries is a delightful process, and I promise you’ll enjoy every step of the way. Let’s break it down into easy-to-follow steps.

Prepping the Oven and Pans

First things first, we need to ensure our oven is ready to go. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial because starting with a hot oven helps the cake rise beautifully. While that’s heating up, take two 9-inch round cake pans and grease them generously with butter or vegetable oil. Then, dust them lightly with flour. This little trick prevents the cake from sticking, allowing it to slide out smoothly once baked. Trust me, no one wants a cake that refuses to leave the pan!

Mixing the Cake Batter

Now, let’s get to mixing! In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Give it a good stir with a whisk to ensure everything is evenly distributed. Next, add in the eggs, whole milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Using a hand mixer, beat the mixture on medium speed for about 2 minutes. This is where the magic starts to happen! The batter will become smooth and creamy.

Now, here comes the secret ingredient: boiling water! Carefully stir in the boiling water until fully combined. It might seem a little thin, but don’t worry—that’s exactly what you want! This step helps the cake stay moist and tender. Once you have a smooth batter, you’re ready to move on!

Baking the Cake

Pour the batter evenly into your prepared cake pans. I like to use a spatula to scrape down the sides and get every last drop of that luscious mixture. Pop those pans into your preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. You can check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cakes. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, it’s time to take them out. If not, give it a few more minutes and check again. Remember, every oven is a little different!

Cooling and Frosting

Once your cakes are done, let them cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. This makes it easier to remove them without breaking. After that, gently turn them out onto wire racks to cool completely. It’s important to let them cool completely before frosting; otherwise, your frosting might melt right off!

When the cakes are cool, it’s time for the fun part! Frost your cake with your favorite chocolate frosting, spreading it generously between the layers and on top. Finally, top it with those beautiful, sliced fresh strawberries. They not only add a stunning color contrast but also bring a fresh sweetness that pairs perfectly with the rich chocolate. You can even sprinkle some powdered sugar on top for a touch of elegance! And there you have it—a gorgeous chocolate cake with strawberries, ready to be enjoyed!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This chocolate cake with strawberries is sure to win your heart for many reasons! Here are just a few of the delightful benefits that make this recipe a must-try:

Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this cake in no time. It’s perfect for both beginners and seasoned bakers!
Comforting and Delicious: The rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh strawberries creates a comforting dessert that feels like a warm hug.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday party, holiday gathering, or just a treat for yourself, this cake is always a hit!
Customizable: You can easily adapt the recipe to fit dietary needs, whether you want it gluten-free or dairy-free.
Beautiful Presentation: The stunning layers of chocolate and vibrant strawberries make this cake a showstopper on any table.
Leftovers to Enjoy: If you happen to have any leftover cake (which is rare!), it stays delicious for days and is perfect for snacking or sharing.

Trust me, once you taste this chocolate cake with strawberries, you’ll find it hard to resist making it again and again!

Tips for Success

Now that you’re ready to make this chocolate cake with strawberries, here are some handy tips to ensure everything turns out perfectly. I’ve learned these tricks over the years, and I’m excited to share them with you!

Ingredient Substitutions

Don’t hesitate to make this recipe your own! If you need a gluten-free option, simply swap out the all-purpose flour for a good quality gluten-free flour blend. It works like a charm! For those who are lactose intolerant, almond milk or oat milk can be great alternatives to whole milk. And if you want to cut down on sugar, consider using a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup—just keep in mind that you might need to adjust the liquid content a bit.

Baking Tips

To avoid any surprises, make sure your ingredients are at room temperature before you start mixing. This helps everything blend together smoothly and results in a lighter cake! Also, when measuring flour, don’t scoop it directly from the bag. Instead, spoon it into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife. This little trick will prevent you from adding too much flour, which can lead to a dense cake.

Avoiding Common Mistakes

One common mistake is overmixing the batter. Once you add the dry ingredients to the wet, mix just until combined. A few lumps are perfectly fine! Overmixing can develop gluten, leading to a tougher cake, and we definitely want ours to be light and tender. Also, remember to check your oven temperature with an oven thermometer if you have one. Sometimes ovens can be off by quite a bit, and that can affect your baking time.

Storing and Serving Tips

If you have any leftover cake (which I doubt!), store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. You can also refrigerate it if you prefer, but make sure to bring it back to room temperature before serving for the best flavor! And don’t forget to enjoy a slice with a cup of coffee or tea—it’s the perfect pairing!

With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to bake a delightful chocolate cake with strawberries that will impress everyone! Happy baking!

Nutritional Information Disclaimer

It’s important to note that the nutritional values for this chocolate cake with strawberries can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. Factors such as the type of flour, sugar, or even the brand of chocolate frosting can all influence the final numbers. While I strive to provide a delicious recipe, precise nutritional information isn’t guaranteed. If you have specific dietary needs or concerns, I recommend calculating the values based on the exact ingredients you choose to use. Happy baking, and remember, it’s all about enjoying the process and sharing the love through food!

FAQ Section

Can I use gluten-free flour?

Absolutely! If you need a gluten-free option, simply swap the all-purpose flour for a good quality gluten-free flour blend. I recommend looking for a blend that contains xanthan gum, as it helps mimic the texture you’d get with regular flour. Just keep in mind that gluten-free flour can sometimes absorb more moisture, so you may want to add a little extra liquid to the batter if it seems too thick. With the right flour, you’ll have a delicious chocolate cake with strawberries that everyone can enjoy!

How do I store leftovers?

If you happen to have any leftover chocolate cake (which is rare in my experience!), store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you live in a particularly warm or humid area, refrigeration can help keep it fresh a bit longer. Just be sure to let it come back to room temperature before serving—this brings back all those delightful flavors and textures! I also like to place a piece of wax paper between the cake and the lid to prevent any sticking. It’s all about keeping that cake as delicious as the day you baked it!

Can I make this cake in advance?

Yes, you can definitely make this chocolate cake with strawberries in advance! I recommend baking the cake a day ahead if you’re planning for a special occasion. Just let it cool completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and store it at room temperature. When you’re ready to serve, frost it and add the fresh strawberries right before serving. This way, they stay vibrant and juicy. If you’d like to prepare the frosting in advance too, just keep it in the fridge, and give it a quick stir before spreading it on the cake. Planning ahead makes everything easier and allows you to enjoy the moment!

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve baked this delightful chocolate cake with strawberries, let’s talk about the best ways to serve it! I always believe that the right accompaniments can elevate your dessert experience to another level. Here are some simple suggestions that pair beautifully with this cake:

Coffee: A warm cup of coffee makes for a classic pairing. The rich flavor of coffee complements the chocolate perfectly, enhancing those delicious cocoa notes.
Tea: If you prefer something lighter, a nice cup of herbal or black tea can be a wonderful choice. It provides a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cake.
Ice Cream: For a truly indulgent treat, serve slices of cake with a scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream. The creamy texture and temperature contrast are simply heavenly!
Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream on top of your slice adds an extra layer of richness and makes it feel even more special.
Fresh Berries: Consider serving additional fresh strawberries or other berries on the side. They add a lovely burst of freshness that pairs perfectly with the chocolate.

Whichever you choose, these suggestions will enhance your chocolate cake experience and make your dessert time even more enjoyable. Happy serving!

You might also like it

Delightful Eggnog Pie for 5 Comforting Holiday Moments

Delightful Cannoli Florence: 5 Comforting Steps to Savor

Homemade No Churn Ice Cream: 5 Comforting Flavors to Savor

About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.