Chocolate covered strawberry cake is a dessert that has taken the world by storm, and for good reason. The combination of rich, velvety chocolate and fresh, sweet strawberries is a match made in heaven. Whether you’re planning for a special celebration like Valentine’s Day, an anniversary, or a birthday, this cake never fails to impress. Its layers of moist chocolate cake, creamy strawberry filling, and smooth chocolate ganache make it a showstopper at any event.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through every step of making this irresistible cake, from understanding its components to serving it with style. Plus, we’ll share some creative variations, decoration tips, and frequently asked questions that will help you make this dessert your own.
What is Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cake?
A chocolate-covered strawberry cake is more than just a cake; it’s an experience. The main appeal of this dessert lies in its balance of rich chocolate flavor, sweet strawberries, and silky ganache. Typically, the cake is made of moist chocolate cake layers filled with a luscious strawberry filling, all topped with a decadent chocolate ganache.
The cake is often decorated with chocolate-covered strawberries, giving it that unmistakable luxury look. It’s a favorite for Valentine’s Day, where the pairing of chocolate and strawberries represents love, passion, and indulgence. The strawberries are often dipped in chocolate and placed on top of the cake, or incorporated into the filling, adding freshness to each bite.
The base chocolate cake can vary in flavor and texture, from a dense, fudgy chocolate cake to a lighter, more fluffy version, depending on your preference. The chocolate ganache that coats the cake provides a smooth, shiny finish, making it as beautiful as it is delicious.
For inspiration on chocolate cake variations, check out this guide on making homemade chocolate chip cookies.
Why is Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cake So Popular?
There are many reasons why chocolate-covered strawberry cake has become a favorite dessert for special occasions. Here are a few key factors contributing to its popularity:
1. Perfect Flavor Combination
The rich and indulgent flavor of chocolate pairs beautifully with the tangy sweetness of strawberries, creating a perfect balance of taste. This classic combination appeals to people of all ages, making it a crowd-pleasing dessert.
2. Symbol of Romance
Chocolate and strawberries are often associated with romance. Chocolate, in particular, has long been considered a symbol of luxury and love, making it a perfect dessert for Valentine’s Day, anniversaries, and romantic events. The tradition of giving chocolate to a loved one dates back centuries, making this cake an iconic symbol of affection.
3. Versatility
This cake is highly versatile. Whether you prefer a dense chocolate cake, a light sponge cake, or a red velvet cake, it can be tailored to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. Additionally, the cake can be made gluten-free, dairy-free, or vegan, allowing it to cater to a variety of dietary needs. You can also opt for different chocolate varieties (milk, dark, or white) based on your audience’s preferences.
4. Stunning Presentation
The visual appeal of chocolate-covered strawberries atop the cake adds a level of sophistication and elegance. The vibrant red of the strawberries combined with the dark chocolate ganache gives the cake a beautiful contrast, making it a showstopper at any celebration. The cake’s decoration possibilities are virtually endless, which makes it as fun to make as it is to serve. Whether you like to keep it simple with just a few strawberries on top or go all out with intricate designs, this cake always looks impressive.
For more decoration ideas, check out this post on styling strawberries on a cake.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cake
To create a perfect chocolate-covered strawberry cake, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Chocolate Cake Ingredients:
- Flour (all-purpose or cake flour for a lighter texture)
- Cocoa powder (unsweetened for rich flavor)
- Baking powder and baking soda (to help the cake rise)
- Sugar (granulated or brown sugar for depth)
- Butter (unsalted for smoothness)
- Eggs (room temperature for easy incorporation)
- Vanilla extract (for flavor)
- Milk (whole milk or buttermilk for a moist crumb)
Strawberry Filling:
- Fresh strawberries (or frozen, if out of season)
- Sugar (to sweeten the filling)
- Cornstarch (to thicken the filling)
- Lemon juice (for an added zest)
Chocolate Ganache:
- Heavy cream (for smooth texture)
- Chocolate (semi-sweet or dark chocolate)
- Butter (optional, for added richness)
Pro Tip: If you’re looking to make a gluten-free chocolate-covered strawberry cake, substitute the all-purpose flour with almond flour or rice flour. For a dairy-free version, use plant-based milk and dairy-free chocolate.
For a delicious gluten-free variation, you might enjoy this gluten-free cake recipe.
Step-by-Step Recipe for Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cake
Step 1: Bake the Chocolate Cake
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch cake pans with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and baking soda.
- In another bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with milk. Mix until smooth.
- Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cakes to cool completely before assembling.
Step 2: Prepare the Strawberry Filling
- Wash and chop the fresh strawberries. In a saucepan, combine the strawberries and sugar over medium heat.
- Stir the mixture occasionally and cook until the strawberries break down and release their juices. Add the cornstarch to thicken the filling, and cook for a few more minutes until the mixture becomes a jam-like consistency.
- Remove from heat and allow to cool.
Step 3: Make the Chocolate Ganache
- In a heatproof bowl, combine the chocolate and heavy cream.
- Heat the mixture in a microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring each time until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth. Stir in the butter for extra richness.
- Let the ganache cool to room temperature before using it to cover the cake.
Step 4: Assemble the Cake
- Place one layer of the chocolate cake on your serving platter. Spread a layer of strawberry filling on top.
- Place the second cake layer on top and cover the entire cake with the chocolate ganache.
- Decorate with chocolate-covered strawberries, and let the ganache set for a few minutes.
Decoration Tips for Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cake
Decorating your chocolate-covered strawberry cake is an opportunity to showcase your creativity. Here are some decoration tips to elevate your cake:
- Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: To make your cake even more beautiful, dip fresh strawberries in melted chocolate and place them on top of the cake. You can drizzle some of the remaining ganache over the strawberries for a polished look.
- Sprinkles and Edible Glitter: Add a festive touch with edible glitter or colored sprinkles around the edges of the cake. This adds a bit of fun and sparkle to an already stunning dessert.
- Whipped Cream: For a lighter, more delicate finish, pipe whipped cream around the edges of the cake or between the layers. It adds a creamy contrast to the dense chocolate cake and the rich ganache.
- Fruit Garnish: You can also add other fruits, such as raspberries, blueberries, or even kiwi slices, for an extra burst of color and flavor. These fruits pair wonderfully with both chocolate and strawberries.
How to Store and Serve Your Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cake
Because of the fresh strawberries used in the filling, it’s essential to store your chocolate-covered strawberry cake properly to maintain its freshness. Here’s how to store and serve your cake:
Storage Tips:
- Refrigerate the cake: Since the cake contains fresh strawberries, it’s best to store it in the refrigerator. Cover it loosely with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the fridge.
- Freeze for later: If you want to store the cake longer, you can freeze the cake layers without the ganache or strawberries. When you’re ready to serve, thaw the layers, assemble the cake, and top with fresh strawberries and ganache.
Serving:
- Use a warm knife to slice the cake for clean, even cuts without disturbing the decoration.
- Serve the cake as a standalone dessert or alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgence.
FAQs About Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cake
Can I make chocolate-covered strawberry cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cake layers and strawberry filling in advance. Store the layers separately in an airtight container at room temperature, and refrigerate the filling. Assemble the cake on the day you plan to serve it to keep the fresh strawberries intact.
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Frozen strawberries can be used for the filling, but make sure to drain them well to prevent excess moisture. Fresh strawberries are ideal for decoration, but if frozen are all you have, they can still work well.
How do I prevent the strawberries from making the cake soggy?
Ensure that the strawberry filling is thickened with cornstarch, and do not overfill the cake with the filling. This will keep the cake layers intact and prevent sogginess. Also, consider draining the strawberries of excess liquid if using them for decoration.
Can I make a smaller version of the cake?
Absolutely! You can scale the recipe down to fit a smaller cake pan, such as 6-inch pans. Adjust the baking time accordingly, checking for doneness after 20-25 minutes.
How do I make the cake vegan or gluten-free?
For a vegan version, substitute eggs with flax eggs and use dairy-free chocolate and non-dairy milk. For gluten-free, you can swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend and ensure the baking soda is gluten-free as well.
Conclusion
The chocolate-covered strawberry cake is the ultimate dessert for any occasion. With its rich layers of chocolate, sweet strawberry filling, and decadent ganache, this cake is sure to impress your guests. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in something delicious, this cake is the perfect choice.
By following this step-by-step guide, you can create a cake that is both visually stunning and incredibly tasty. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations and decorations to make the cake your own. From using gluten-free flour to trying different chocolate types, there’s no wrong way to enjoy this versatile dessert.
So, why wait? Give it a try for your next celebration and treat yourself and your loved ones to an unforgettable dessert.