Moist chocolate cake layers filled with fresh strawberry compote and covered in silky chocolate ganache β a decadent dessert perfect for any occasion!
π Ingredients
π« For the Chocolate Cake:
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1ΒΎ cups (220g) all-purpose flour
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ΒΎ cup (65g) unsweetened cocoa powder
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1Β½ tsp baking powder
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1Β½ tsp baking soda
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Β½ tsp salt
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2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
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2 large eggs
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1 cup (240ml) milk
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Β½ cup (120ml) vegetable oil
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2 tsp vanilla extract
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1 cup (240ml) boiling water
π For the Strawberry Filling:
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1Β½ cups (225g) fresh strawberries, chopped
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ΒΌ cup (50g) granulated sugar
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1 tsp lemon juice
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2 tsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water (optional, for thickening)
π« For the Ganache (or Frosting):
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1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
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8 oz (225g) semi-sweet or dark chocolate, chopped
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1 tbsp butter (optional, for extra shine)
β¨ For Decoration:
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Fresh strawberries
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Chocolate shavings or drizzle
π©βπ³ Instructions
1. Make the Cake:
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Preheat oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C). Grease and line two 8-inch (20 cm) round cake pans.
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In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar.
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Add in eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
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Gradually stir in boiling water β the batter will be thin.
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Divide evenly between the pans.
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Bake for 30β35 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely.
2. Make the Strawberry Filling:
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In a small saucepan, combine chopped strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice.
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Cook over medium heat for 5β7 minutes, until strawberries soften and break down.
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For a thicker filling, mix cornstarch with water and stir in. Simmer for 1β2 minutes until thickened.
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Remove from heat and let cool.
3. Make the Ganache:
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Heat heavy cream in a saucepan until steaming (not boiling).
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Pour over the chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl.
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Let sit for 1β2 minutes, then stir until smooth and glossy.
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Add butter for extra richness and shine (optional).
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Cool slightly until it reaches a spreadable consistency.
4. Assemble the Cake:
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Place one cake layer on a serving plate.
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Spread a generous layer of strawberry filling on top.
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Add the second cake layer.
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Pour ganache over the top, gently spreading it to the edges.
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Decorate with fresh strawberries and chocolate shavings.
π° Serve & Enjoy!
Refrigerate for 30 minutes before slicing for clean cuts β or dive in while itβs gooey and fresh!
