Strawberry Chocolate Cake with Juicy Layers and Lush Ganache

If you’ve ever wished chocolate-covered strawberries could turn into a full cake—this strawberry chocolate cake is your dream come true. It’s rich, soft, and layered with fresh strawberries and smooth chocolate ganache. Whether you’re baking for a birthday, date night, or just craving something special, this cake delivers on flavor, texture, and pure indulgence.

Why This Cake Works

The chocolate layers are made with cocoa powder and buttermilk for a soft, moist crumb. Between them? Sliced strawberries and whipped ganache for a combo that’s rich without being too heavy. It’s a showstopper that’s surprisingly easy to make and even easier to devour.

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Cake:

1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
2 cups granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 cup buttermilk
½ cup vegetable oil
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup hot coffee or water

For the Filling:

2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
Optional: 2 tablespoons strawberry jam for extra berry flavor

For the Ganache Frosting:

1 cup heavy cream
8 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
1 tablespoon butter (for shine)

Instructions

1. Bake the Cake

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans.

In a large bowl, whisk together dry ingredients. Add eggs, buttermilk, oil, and vanilla. Mix until smooth. Stir in hot coffee last—the batter will be thin.

Divide evenly between pans and bake for 30–35 minutes. Let cool completely.

2. Make the Ganache

Heat heavy cream until simmering. Pour over chopped chocolate and butter. Let sit for 2–3 minutes, then stir until smooth. Chill for 30–45 minutes until spreadable (not runny).

3. Assemble

Place one cake layer on a plate. Spread a thin layer of ganache, then layer on sliced strawberries. Repeat with the second cake layer and frost the top and sides with remaining ganache.

Garnish with whole or halved strawberries on top for a stunning finish.

Tips for Success

Use ripe but firm strawberries so the cake doesn’t get soggy
Chill the frosted cake before slicing for clean layers
For extra berry flavor, brush cake layers with a little strawberry syrup or jam

Variations

Add a layer of whipped cream or cream cheese frosting for a lighter contrast
Use dark chocolate for a more intense cocoa flavor
Make cupcakes with strawberry filling for an individual treat

Final Thoughts

This strawberry chocolate cake is rich, elegant, and bursting with flavor. It’s the kind of dessert that feels like a celebration—even if there’s no occasion at all. A little fruity, a little fudgy, and 100% worth every bite.