Are you ready to impress your family and friends with a dessert that not only tastes divine but also looks spectacular? The Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cake Recipe is the epitome of indulgence, offering a delightful fusion of rich chocolate cake, fresh strawberries, and a luxurious ganache. This cake is perfect for any occasion, whether it be a birthday, anniversary, or just a night in with loved ones. The balance of flavors is simply irresistible and promises to be a showstopper at any gathering.
What makes this cake even more appealing is how straightforward it is to make. Using a box cake mix as your base allows for a quick preparation, while fresh strawberries add natural sweetness and a touch of freshness to each bite. Topped with a smooth ganache frosting, every slice is a perfect combination of decadent chocolate and refreshing strawberries. This Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cake isn’t just about the taste; it’s about bringing joy and happiness to your table and gathering.
Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cake
- Decadent Flavor: The layers of rich chocolate cake combined with strawberry jam and the luxurious ganache frosting create an unforgettable flavor profile.
- Simple Preparation: With a box cake mix, this recipe eliminates complicated steps, making it accessible for bakers of all levels.
- Visual Appeal: The stunning presentation with fresh strawberries makes this cake a showpiece at any event.
- Customizable: Feel free to adjust the filling and toppings to suit your personal taste or the season!
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a special celebration or a cozy family gathering, this cake is sure to please everyone.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into this mouth-watering Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cake Recipe, it’s important to prepare your kitchen and gather the necessary tools. Make sure your workspace is clean; a tidy kitchen leads to a great cooking experience. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s at the perfect temperature when the cake goes in. Grab two 9-inch round cake pans; greasing and flouring them ensures your cake won’t stick during baking.
Having the right tools on hand can make the process smoother. You’ll need mixing bowls, a whisk or electric mixer for combining ingredients, a spatula for folding in those lovely chopped strawberries, and a wire rack for cooling your cakes. A small saucepan will be needed for heating the heavy cream and butter for the ganache, and a medium-sized bowl for combining your ganache ingredients. Prepare your ingredients by measuring them out and chopping the strawberries; having everything ready to go is key to success.
Ingredients
- 1 box (15.25 oz) chocolate cake mix
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup finely chopped fresh strawberries
- 1/2 cup strawberry jam
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 8 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Fresh strawberries (whole or halved, for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans to prevent sticking. This preparation is crucial as it sets the stage for even baking and easy release of your cakes.
Step 2: Mix the Cake Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, prepare the chocolate cake mix according to the instructions on the box, adding water, vegetable oil, and eggs. Ensure the mixture is well combined; then gently fold in the finely chopped fresh strawberries. This step adds a burst of flavor and moisture to your cake, enhancing its overall appeal. Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared pans.
Step 3: Bake the Cakes
Place the pans in the preheated oven and bake for about 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Be mindful not to overbake, as this could lead to a dry cake. Once done, allow the cakes to cool in the pans for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 4: Assemble the Cake
After your cakes have cooled, it’s time to assemble. Take one cake layer and spread a generous amount of strawberry jam across the top. This adds a delicious, fruity layer to your cake, complementing the chocolate beautifully. Carefully place the second cake layer on top, pressing down slightly to ensure it adheres to the jam.
Step 5: Make the Ganache Frosting
To create the ganache frosting, begin by heating the heavy cream and unsalted butter in a small saucepan over medium heat until it begins to simmer. Remove from heat before adding the chopped semi-sweet chocolate. Let the mixture sit for a couple of minutes, allowing the chocolate to soften. Then whisk until smooth, adding vanilla extract and salt before letting it cool slightly. This step is essential for achieving that silky ganache texture.
Step 6: Frost the Cake
Once the ganache has cooled but is still pourable, pour it over the top of the assembled cake, using a spatula to gently spread it towards the edges. Allow the ganache to drape down the sides, creating a delightful dripping effect. The visual appeal will make your cake even more irresistible!
Step 7: Garnish and Chill
Lastly, embellish your cake with whole or halved fresh strawberries on top of the ganache. This not only provides a stunning finish but also underscores the fresh flavors within. Chill the cake in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before slicing to ensure the ganache sets nicely. This chilling phase enhances the flavors and allows for easier slicing.
Variations
- Protein: Add diced pieces of cooked chicken for a unique flavor twist.
- Vegetables: Incorporate shredded carrots or zucchini into the batter for added moisture and nutrition.
- Spices: For extra warmth, consider adding a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the chocolate cake mix.
Cooking Notes
- Be sure to cool the cakes completely before assembling to avoid melting the ganache.
- Store any leftovers in the refrigerator; it stays delicious for a few days!
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream for an indulgent treat.
- Pair with a fresh fruit salad for a refreshing contrast to the richness of the cake.
Tips
- For easier handling, use parchment paper at the bottom of your cake pans.
- If desired, sprinkle a bit of powdered sugar on top for a beautiful finishing touch.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes (includes cooling)
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 400 calories per slice
- Protein: 5 grams
- Sodium: 250 mg
FAQs
Can I use fresh strawberries instead of strawberry jam?
While fresh strawberries can be used, strawberry jam adds a concentrated sweetness and maintains moisture in the cake layers. Consider a mix of both for a flavorful boost!
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the cakes a day in advance, wrap them tightly, and refrigerate until you’re ready to assemble and frost.
What if my ganache looks too thick?
If your ganache becomes too thick while cooling, you can gently reheat it over a double boiler or in the microwave in short bursts until it thins out to a pourable consistency.
Can I substitute the butter in the ganache with oil?
While you can substitute butter with oil, it may not achieve the same creamy texture that butter provides. It’s best to use unsalted butter for the optimal ganache experience.
Conclusion
This Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cake Recipe is not just a dessert; it’s an experience that tantalizes the senses with its delightful flavors and beautiful presentation. With its ease of preparation, even novice bakers can create an impressive cake that will leave everyone wanting more. Whether it’s a special celebration or a cozy night in, this cake is sure to be the highlight of the evening. Don’t hesitate to share your own twist on this recipe in the comments below, and encourage friends to experience the joy of baking this beautiful dessert!
Print
Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cake
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
This Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cake is a delightful fusion of rich chocolate cake, fresh strawberries, and a luxurious ganache. Perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients
- 1 box (15.25 oz) chocolate cake mix
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup finely chopped fresh strawberries
- 1/2 cup strawberry jam
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 8 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Fresh strawberries (whole or halved, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round pans.
- Prepare the chocolate cake mix as instructed, adding water, oil, and eggs. Fold in chopped strawberries.
- Divide batter between prepared pans and bake 25–30 minutes.
- Let cakes cool before assembling with strawberry jam between layers.
- Heat cream and butter for ganache, mix in chopped chocolate until smooth.
- Frost the assembled cake with ganache and garnish with strawberries.
- Chill before slicing for easier serving.
Notes
Cool cakes completely before assembling to avoid melting the ganache. Store leftovers in the fridge.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
Nutrition
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Sodium: 250 mg
- Protein: 5 g