This Strawberry Chocolate Cake is the perfect balance of decadent chocolate cake and sweet strawberry flavor. Layers of rich chocolate cake are filled with homemade strawberry jam and topped with a creamy strawberry cream cheese frosting. Fresh strawberries are added for an extra burst of fruitiness, making this cake a showstopper for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cake is everything you love about chocolate and strawberry flavors combined into one indulgent dessert. The soft, fudgy chocolate cake pairs perfectly with the homemade strawberry jam and fresh fruit filling. The strawberry cream cheese frosting adds an extra layer of creamy sweetness. Simple decorations make it feel rustic and charming, without needing any intricate piping.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Fresh or frozen strawberries (for jam and filling)
Granulated sugar
All-purpose flour
Cocoa powder
Baking powder
Baking soda
Salt
Unsalted butter (melted for the cake, softened for frosting)
Oil (canola, avocado, or grapeseed)
Brown sugar
Eggs (room temperature)
Milk (room temperature)
Cream cheese (softened)
Powdered sugar
Vanilla extract

Directions

Begin by making the strawberry jam: Combine strawberries, sugar, and water in a small pot. Cook over medium-high heat, stirring frequently, until it thickens to a jam-like consistency.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 6-inch round cake pans.
In a bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
In a separate bowl, beat the butter and oil, then add brown sugar, eggs, and milk. Stir in the dry ingredients until well combined.
Divide the batter between the cake pans and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cool completely.
Once the cakes are cool, spread strawberry jam between the layers, then cover the cake with strawberry cream cheese frosting.
Decorate the cake with fresh strawberries on top.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 8-10 slices
Preparation: 30 minutes
Baking: 30-35 minutes
Cooling: 30 minutes
Total: 1 hour 35 minutes

Variations

Use a different fruit jam such as raspberry or blueberry for a unique twist.
Add chocolate chips to the batter for an extra chocolatey cake.
Use whipped cream instead of cream cheese frosting for a lighter topping.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It can also be frozen for up to 1 month. Allow the cake to thaw in the fridge before serving.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought strawberry jam?

Yes, you can use store-bought jam, but homemade jam provides a fresher and richer flavor.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, the cake layers can be made a day ahead and stored at room temperature, and the frosting can be made in advance and refrigerated.

Can I use a different size cake pan?

Yes, if you prefer a different size, you can scale the recipe to fit 8-inch or 9-inch round pans. Just adjust the baking time as needed.

How do I keep the cake layers from sinking?

Ensure that the cake layers are fully cooled before stacking them. If they are still warm, the layers may shift or sink.

Can I use frozen strawberries for the jam?

Frozen strawberries work well for the jam, but fresh strawberries yield the best flavor for the filling.

How can I make the frosting thicker?

To thicken the frosting, add more powdered sugar until you reach your desired consistency.

Can I add more strawberries to the cake?

Feel free to add more fresh strawberries between the layers or on top for an extra fruity touch.

How long will the cake last?

The cake can last up to 3 days in the fridge, and it’s best consumed within a couple of days to enjoy the fresh strawberries.

Can I use whipped cream for the frosting?

Yes, whipped cream can be used instead of cream cheese frosting for a lighter texture.

Can I double the recipe to make a larger cake?

Absolutely! Just double the ingredients and bake in larger pans, adjusting the baking time as needed.

Conclusion

This Strawberry Chocolate Cake is a beautiful and delicious dessert that combines the best of both worlds—chocolate and strawberry. With its soft layers, fruity jam, and creamy frosting, it’s perfect for any special occasion or just to treat yourself. Whether you’re serving it for a birthday, a holiday, or a casual gathering, this cake is sure to impress.

Strawberry Chocolate Cake

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Author: sara
Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
Yield: 8 - 10 slices
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

This Strawberry Chocolate Cake combines rich chocolate cake with homemade strawberry jam and creamy strawberry cream cheese frosting. Topped with fresh strawberries, it’s a delicious and indulgent dessert perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or simply craving a sweet treat, this cake will satisfy both chocolate and strawberry lovers.

Instructions

Make the Strawberry Jam:
- In a small pot, combine strawberries, sugar, and water. Cook over medium-high heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens to a jam-like consistency. Let cool.
Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 6-inch round cake pans.
Prepare the Cake:
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, beat together the melted butter, oil, brown sugar, eggs, and milk. Stir in the dry ingredients until well combined.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool completely.
Assemble the Cake:
- Once the cakes are cool, spread the homemade strawberry jam between the layers.
- Top the cake with a generous layer of strawberry cream cheese frosting.
Decorate:
- Garnish the cake with fresh strawberries on top for an added burst of fruity flavor.

Notes

Storage: Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It can also be frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
Frosting Variations: You can replace the cream cheese frosting with whipped cream for a lighter texture.
Jam Options: If you prefer, you can use store-bought strawberry jam, though homemade jam provides a fresher and richer flavor.
Pan Sizes: If using larger pans (8-inch or 9-inch), adjust the baking time as needed.
Make Ahead: You can prepare the cake layers and frosting a day ahead to save time.

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American