Introduction to Chocolate Strawberry Dream Cake
Welcome to the world of indulgence with my Chocolate Strawberry Dream Cake! If you’re anything like me, you know that life can get busy, and sometimes we need a sweet escape. This cake is not just a dessert; it’s a delightful experience that brings joy to any occasion. Imagine layers of rich chocolate cake, creamy custard, and fresh strawberries coming together in perfect harmony. Whether you’re celebrating a special moment or simply treating yourself, this recipe is your go-to solution. Trust me, your loved ones will be begging for seconds!
Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Strawberry Dream Cake
This Chocolate Strawberry Dream Cake is a true crowd-pleaser! It’s not only easy to make, but it also comes together quickly, making it perfect for those busy days when you crave something sweet. The combination of rich chocolate and fresh strawberries creates a flavor explosion that’s simply irresistible. Plus, it’s a stunning centerpiece for any gathering, guaranteed to impress your friends and family. Who wouldn’t love a slice of this dreamy delight?
Ingredients for Chocolate Strawberry Dream Cake
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating your Chocolate Strawberry Dream Cake. Here’s what you’ll need:
- All-purpose flour: This is the backbone of your cake, providing structure and texture.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: For that rich chocolate flavor, choose a high-quality cocoa for the best results.
- Baking powder and baking soda: These leavening agents help your cake rise, giving it a light and fluffy texture.
- Salt: Just a pinch enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetness is key! It also helps with moisture and browning.
- Eggs: They bind the ingredients together and add richness to the cake.
- Buttermilk: This adds moisture and a slight tang, making the cake tender.
- Vegetable oil: For a moist cake, oil is a great choice as it keeps the cake soft.
- Vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla elevates the flavor profile, making it more aromatic.
- Hot coffee or hot water: This may sound unusual, but it intensifies the chocolate flavor!
- Whole milk: Essential for the custard, it adds creaminess and richness.
- Egg yolks: These enrich the custard, giving it a smooth and velvety texture.
- Sugar (for custard): Sweetens the custard, balancing the flavors.
- Cornstarch: This thickens the custard, ensuring it sets perfectly.
- Heavy cream: Used for the ganache, it creates a luscious, silky finish.
- Semisweet or milk chocolate: Choose your favorite for the ganache; it’s the star of the show!
- Butter: A little butter in the ganache adds shine and richness.
- Fresh strawberries: These juicy gems add freshness and a pop of color to your cake.
- Chocolate truffles or Ferrero Rocher: Optional, but they make for a decadent topping!
- Extra strawberries: For garnish, they make your cake look even more inviting.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Happy baking!
How to Make Chocolate Strawberry Dream Cake
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Let’s kick things off by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s warming up, grab two 9×9-inch square pans and grease them well. I like to line the bottoms with parchment paper for easy removal later. If you prefer, you can use one large sheet pan and slice the cake later. This little prep step makes a world of difference when it comes to serving!
Step 2: Make the Chocolate Cake Batter
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and granulated sugar. This is where the magic begins! Next, add in the eggs, buttermilk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Beat everything together until it’s smooth and creamy. Now, here’s the secret: slowly pour in the hot coffee or water. This will thin out the batter, making it silky and rich. Remember, a well-mixed batter is key to a moist Chocolate Strawberry Dream Cake!
Step 3: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter evenly into your prepared pans. Bake for 28 to 32 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, you’re golden! Once baked, let the cakes cool completely in the pans. This cooling time is crucial for easy layering later on.
Step 4: Prepare the Vanilla Custard
Now, let’s make that dreamy vanilla custard! Start by heating the whole milk in a saucepan until it’s steaming but not boiling. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch until smooth. Gradually pour the hot milk into the yolk mixture while whisking constantly. This prevents the eggs from scrambling. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring until it thickens. Once thickened, stir in the vanilla and butter, then cover it with plastic wrap directly on the surface to chill.
Step 5: Create the Chocolate Ganache
For the ganache, heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan until it’s just simmering. Pour it over the finely chopped chocolate and let it sit for a minute. This allows the chocolate to melt perfectly. Stir until smooth, then mix in a tablespoon of butter for that glossy finish. Let the ganache cool slightly until it’s thick but still pourable. This step is essential for that luscious topping!
Step 6: Assemble the Cake
It’s time to bring everything together! If you want thinner layers, slice each cooled cake layer horizontally. Place one layer in a loaf pan lined with parchment. Spread a generous layer of custard on top, followed by a beautiful arrangement of halved strawberries. Repeat this process with the next layer. Once you reach the top, pour the chocolate ganache over the cake, letting it drip down the sides. Chill for 2 to 3 hours, or overnight if you can wait. Trust me, it’s worth it!
Tips for Success
- Always use room temperature ingredients for a smoother batter.
- Don’t skip the chilling time; it enhances the flavors and makes slicing easier.
- For a richer ganache, opt for high-quality chocolate.
- Feel free to experiment with different fruits, like raspberries or blueberries, for a twist.
- Keep an eye on the baking time; every oven is a little different!
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls: A large bowl for mixing the batter and a smaller one for the custard.
- Whisk: Essential for blending ingredients smoothly; a fork can work in a pinch!
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key; use a kitchen scale for precision.
- Oven: A reliable oven is crucial for baking; toaster ovens can work for smaller batches.
- Spatula: Perfect for spreading the custard and ganache evenly.
Variations
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this Chocolate Strawberry Dream Cake gluten-free.
- Dairy-Free Version: Use almond milk or coconut milk in place of whole milk and buttermilk, and opt for dairy-free chocolate for the ganache.
- Fruit Alternatives: Swap strawberries for other berries like raspberries or blueberries for a different flavor profile.
- Nutty Twist: Add chopped nuts, like walnuts or hazelnuts, between the layers for added crunch and flavor.
- Vegan Adaptation: Replace eggs with flaxseed meal or applesauce, and use plant-based milk and oil to create a vegan-friendly version.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair your Chocolate Strawberry Dream Cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast.
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream on top for added creaminess.
- A cup of freshly brewed coffee or a glass of cold milk complements the rich flavors perfectly.
- Garnish with mint leaves for a pop of color and freshness.
- Present on a beautiful cake stand to showcase its stunning layers!
FAQs about Chocolate Strawberry Dream Cake
Can I make Chocolate Strawberry Dream Cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! This cake actually tastes better when chilled overnight. You can prepare it a day in advance and let the flavors meld together. Just make sure to store it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
What can I substitute for buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, don’t worry! You can easily make a substitute by mixing one cup of milk with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5 minutes, and you’ll have a perfect buttermilk replacement.
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
While fresh strawberries are ideal for this Chocolate Strawberry Dream Cake, you can use frozen ones in a pinch. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture in your cake layers.
How do I store leftover cake?
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for up to 3 days. Just be sure to let it come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor!
Can I freeze Chocolate Strawberry Dream Cake?
Yes, you can freeze this cake! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before serving for the best texture.
Final Thoughts
Creating this Chocolate Strawberry Dream Cake is more than just baking; it’s about crafting a moment of joy. Each layer tells a story, from the rich chocolate to the fresh strawberries, all wrapped in a silky ganache. I love how this cake brings people together, whether it’s a birthday celebration or a simple family dinner. The smiles and satisfied sighs that follow each slice are truly priceless. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the process, and let this cake be the sweet highlight of your day. Trust me, it’s a dream worth savoring!
Print
Chocolate Strawberry Dream Cake: A Sweet Delight Awaits!
- Total Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A decadent Chocolate Strawberry Dream Cake featuring layers of rich chocolate cake, creamy vanilla custard, and fresh strawberries, all topped with luscious chocolate ganache.
Ingredients
- 1¾ cups (220 g) all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup (75 g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1½ tsp baking powder
- 1½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1¾ cups (350 g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 cup (240 ml) buttermilk
- ½ cup (120 ml) vegetable oil
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup (240 ml) hot coffee or hot water
- 2 cups (480 ml) whole milk
- 4 large egg yolks
- ½ cup (100 g) sugar
- 3 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
- 8 oz (225 g) semisweet or milk chocolate, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp butter (for shine)
- 2 cups (300 g) fresh strawberries, halved
- 6–8 chocolate truffles or Ferrero Rocher (for topping)
- Extra strawberries for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9×9-inch (23×23 cm) square pans (or bake in one large sheet pan and slice later).
- In a large bowl, whisk flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar. Add eggs, buttermilk, oil, and vanilla. Beat until smooth. Slowly pour in hot coffee and mix until fully combined (the batter will be thin). Bake for 28–32 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool completely before slicing into layers.
- In a saucepan, heat milk until steaming (not boiling). In a bowl, whisk egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch until smooth. Slowly pour hot milk into the yolk mixture while whisking constantly. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring until thickened (about 5 minutes). Remove from heat, stir in vanilla and butter. Cover with plastic wrap directly on the surface and chill until set.
- Heat heavy cream until just simmering. Pour over chopped chocolate and let sit 1 minute. Stir until smooth, then mix in butter for shine. Let cool slightly until thick but pourable.
- Slice each cooled cake layer horizontally for thinner layers (optional). Place one cake layer at the base of a loaf pan lined with parchment. Spread a layer of custard and arrange halved strawberries over it. Add another cake layer and repeat until you reach the top. Pour chocolate ganache over the cake, letting it drip down the sides. Chill for 2–3 hours or overnight to set.
- Top with whole strawberries and chocolate truffles. Optionally, drizzle more ganache or sprinkle chocolate shavings.
Notes
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results.
- For a richer flavor, use high-quality chocolate for the ganache.
- Chilling the cake overnight enhances the flavors.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 32 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 35g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
