Chocolate Cake With Strawberry Filling

Ingredients

• 250 g all-purpose flour ((2 cups))
• 75 g unsweetened cocoa powder ((3/4 cup))
• 350 g sugar ((1 3/4 cups (light brown)))
• 7 g baking powder ((1 1/2 tsp))
• 7 g baking soda ((1 1/2 tsp) )
• 5 g salt (( 3/4 tsp))
• 2 large eggs ((about 100g))
• 240 g buttermilk (( 1 cup))
• 120 g vegetable oil (( 1/2 cup))
• 8 g vanilla extract (( 2 tsp))
• 240 g hot water (( 1 cup))
• 300 g fresh strawberries (( about 2 3/4 cups hulled and chopped))
• 50 g granulated sugar (( 1/4 cup))
• 15 g lemon juice (( 1 tbsp ))
• 10 g cornstarch (( 1 tbsp ))
• 226 g unsalted butter, (( 1 cup softened))
• 250 g powdered sugar (( 2 cups sifted))
• 75 g Dutch-processed cocoa powder ((3/4 cup (for deep color)))
• 113 g dark chocolate ((4 oz (70% cocoa or higher), melted and slightly cooled))
• 60 g heavy cream (( 1/4 cup ))
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp salt

Instructions

1. 1

   --- Step 1: Make the Chocolate Cake ---

2. 2

   Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease and line your cake pans with parchment paper.

3. 3

   I use three 6-inch cake pans, but you can also use two 8-inch pans if you prefer.

4. 4

   Place a sieve over a large mixing bowl and sift in flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

5. 5

   Add in sugar, eggs, buttermilk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Using a whisk or spatula, gently mix everything together until just combined.

6. 6

   Slowly pour in the hot water, stirring continuously until fully incorporated. The batter will be thin but don’t panic! This is what makes it ultra-moist.

7. 7

   Divide the batter evenly between your prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes if using three 6-inch pans, or 30-35 minutes if using two 8-inch pans. A toothpick inserted should come out clean or with a few crumbs.

8. 8

   Let cakes rest in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

9. 9

   --- Step 2: Make the Strawberry Filling ---

10. 10

    In a saucepan over medium heat, combine strawberries, sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Stir occasionally until the berries soften and release their juices.

11. 11

    Mix cornstarch with 1 tbsp of water to create a slurry. Stir it into the strawberry mixture and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until thickened. Remove from heat and let it cool completely before using.

12. 12

    --- Step 3: Make the Chocolate Buttercream ---

13. 13

    If using chocolate, chop the dark chocolate into small pieces and place it in a heatproof bowl.

14. 14

    Double Boiler Method: Set the bowl over a pot of gently simmering water, ensuring the bottom doesn’t touch the water. Stir occasionally until melted and smooth.

15. 15

    Microwave Method: Heat in 20-second bursts, stirring after each interval, until fully melted and smooth. Let it cool slightly before using.

16. 16

    Using a mixer, beat butter on medium speed until smooth and fluffy. Gradually mix in powdered sugar, cocoa powder, and salt, beating until combined.

17. 17

    Pour in the melted chocolate (optional but recommended for a richer buttercream), followed by heavy cream and vanilla extract. Beat until the frosting is rich and creamy.

18. 18

    --- Step 4: Assemble the Cake ---

19. 19

    Add a small dollop of buttercream onto your cake stand or turntable to keep the cake from sliding. Place the first cake layer on top.

20. 20

    Pipe a thick border of chocolate buttercream around the edge of the cake to create a barrier.

21. 21

    Spoon strawberry filling inside the buttercream border, spreading it evenly while keeping it contained.

22. 22

    Place the second cake layer on top and gently press to secure. Repeat the buttercream border and strawberry filling step.

23. 23

    If using three layers, add the final cake layer and press gently. Frost the entire cake with the remaining chocolate buttercream, using a spatula or bench scraper to smooth it out or leave beautiful swirls for texture, it doesn't have to be perfect.

24. 24

    Top with fresh strawberries, chocolate shavings, or a dusting of cocoa powder for the perfect finishing touch.

25. 25

    --- Step 5: Dig In! ---

26. 26

    Slice and enjoy your homemade chocolate-strawberry masterpiece.