If you’re searching for a show-stopping dessert that’s as stunning as it is delicious, let me introduce you to the Chocolate Strawberry Layer Cake. This stunner layers ultra-moist chocolate cake with lush strawberry buttercream, then crowns the whole thing with a glossy chocolate ganache and a vibrant array of fresh strawberry slices. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, an anniversary, or simply want to dazzle your loved ones, this cake delivers big on flavor, texture, and wow-factor in every dreamy, berry-filled bite.

Chocolate Strawberry Layer Cake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic behind this Chocolate Strawberry Layer Cake is in its approachable, yet carefully chosen ingredients. Each component brings its own magic to the table: deep chocolate notes, juicy berries, silky buttercream, and that luscious ganache finish all combine to create pure cake bliss!

All-purpose flour: Forms the cake’s tender structure and keeps each layer beautifully soft.
Unsweetened cocoa powder: Gives the cake its rich chocolatey depth and velvety crumb.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens each layer and also helps keep the cake moist.
Baking powder & baking soda: Work together to ensure a fluffy, well-risen cake.
Salt: Balances sweetness and sharpens all the flavors.
Buttermilk: Provides a delightful tang and adds tenderness to the cake layers.
Vegetable oil: Keeps the cake extra-moist, even after chilling.
Eggs: Bind the batter and add richness to every bite.
Vanilla extract: Enhances both the cake and buttercream with comforting, aromatic warmth.
Hot water or hot coffee: Intensifies the chocolate flavor and results in a silky, pourable batter.
Unsalted butter: The heart of the strawberry buttercream, it provides creamy stability and a luscious mouthfeel.
Powdered sugar: Ensures the buttercream is smooth, sweet, and fluffy.
Fresh strawberries (mashed): Infuses the frosting with real berry flavor and charming flecks of color.
Heavy cream: Makes the ganache impossibly glossy and decadent.
Semi-sweet chocolate chips: Melt for a perfectly balanced, pourable ganache topping.
Fresh strawberries (for garnish): The final pop of color and freshness on top of your masterpiece.

How to Make Chocolate Strawberry Layer Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Pans and Preheat

Start by greasing and flouring two 8-inch round cake pans. This little step is the secret to easy cake removal and perfectly shaped layers. Then, set your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s at the perfect temperature when your batter is ready.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Combining the dry ingredients first makes sure everything is distributed evenly, setting you up for a perfectly risen and evenly flavored cake.

Step 3: Add the Wet Ingredients

To the bowl of dry ingredients, add the buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix everything until you have a thick, smooth batter with no dry pockets. Both the buttermilk and oil give the cake its famous tender crumb.

Step 4: Incorporate Hot Water or Coffee

Pour in the hot water (or hot coffee if you love a richer chocolate flavor) and mix until the batter loosens up. This step always feels a bit like kitchen magic, as the batter transforms into a glossy liquid that bakes up into the silkiest cake.

Step 5: Bake the Cakes

Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared pans and pop them in the oven. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool completely in their pans before turning out onto a wire rack—this prevents breakage and makes assembly a breeze.

Step 6: Make the Strawberry Buttercream

While your cakes are cooling, whip the unsalted butter until it’s light and fluffy. Gradually mix in the powdered sugar to avoid any lumps, then add the mashed strawberries, vanilla, and a tiny pinch of salt. The result is a luscious, berry-pink frosting you’ll want to eat by the spoonful.

Step 7: Prepare the Ganache Topping

In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream until it’s just beginning to simmer (don’t let it boil!). Pour the hot cream over the semi-sweet chocolate chips in a bowl and let it sit for a couple of minutes, then stir until you have a smooth, shiny ganache that’s dreamy to pour.

Step 8: Assemble the Chocolate Strawberry Layer Cake

Place one chocolate cake layer on your serving plate and slather with a generous amount of strawberry buttercream. Add the second cake layer, then cover the entire cake with more buttercream. Finish by pouring the cooled ganache over the top, allowing it to drip tantalizingly down the sides. Decorate with fresh strawberry slices, then chill until everything is set and ready.

How to Serve Chocolate Strawberry Layer Cake

Garnishes

For the ultimate finish, crown your Chocolate Strawberry Layer Cake with a generous tumble of fresh strawberry halves or slices. The burst of red looks gorgeous against the dark ganache, and those juicy bites make every slice irresistible. A sprinkle of chocolate shavings or freeze-dried strawberries adds extra pizzazz if you’re feeling creative!

Side Dishes

This cake loves company! Consider pairing each slice with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream, a swirl of lightly whipped cream, or even a handful of raspberries for a fruity contrast. A cup of strong coffee or a glass of sparkling wine pairs beautifully with the cake’s rich flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

To really wow your guests, you can layer the Chocolate Strawberry Layer Cake in a trifle dish for a deconstructed look, or cut the cake into petite squares for a bite-sized dessert tray. Try stacking with extra fresh strawberries or serve with individual chocolate-dipped strawberries on top of each slice for a bakery-worthy flourish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover Chocolate Strawberry Layer Cake (lucky you!), simply cover it tightly and store in the fridge. The cake stays wonderfully moist for up to 3 days, and the strawberry buttercream keeps its fresh, fruity flavor. Just bring it out 30 minutes before serving for best texture.

Freezing

Yes, you can freeze this cake! Wrap slices or whole layers tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag or container. The Chocolate Strawberry Layer Cake will keep well for up to 2 months. For best results, freeze the cake un-iced and assemble fresh with buttercream and ganache after thawing.

Reheating

This cake is best enjoyed at room temperature. If you’d like, you can take slices out of the fridge or freezer and let them sit at room temperature for about 30 to 60 minutes. Warming in the microwave is not recommended, as it can melt the buttercream and ganache.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries for the buttercream?

Absolutely! Just thaw them completely and drain off any excess liquid before mashing and adding to the buttercream. You’ll still get that wonderful berry flavor and pink hue in your frosting.

Is coffee necessary in the cake batter?

No worries if you’re not a coffee person: using hot water will work perfectly. Coffee simply enhances the chocolate flavor, but won’t make the cake taste like coffee itself.

Can I make the Chocolate Strawberry Layer Cake gluten free?

Yes! Substitute a reliable 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for the all-purpose flour and check that your baking powder and chocolate chips are gluten free.

What’s the best way to decorate the cake for a party?

Go to town with fresh, bright strawberry slices, a dusting of powdered sugar, or even add edible flowers for a celebratory touch that perfectly matches the festive mood of Chocolate Strawberry Layer Cake.

How far ahead can I assemble the cake?

You can assemble the whole cake up to a day in advance. Simply store it covered in the fridge and let it sit out for about 30 minutes before serving for the best flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

If you really want to treat yourself or surprise someone special, this Chocolate Strawberry Layer Cake is calling your name. It’s a labor of love that pays off tenfold—with every decadent, berry-packed slice. Give it a try, and watch as it steals the spotlight at your next celebration!

Chocolate Strawberry Layer Cake Recipe