Chocolate Strawberry Cascade Cake

Chocolate Strawberry Cascade Cake 🍓🍫

Ingredients:

• For the Chocolate Cake Layers:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup boiling water

• For the Strawberry Filling:

• 2 cups fresh strawberries, diced
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water

• For the Chocolate Ganache Drizzle:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 8 ounces dark chocolate, chopped
• For the Whipped Cream Frosting:
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• For Garnish:

• Fresh strawberries (halved or whole)
• Chocolate shavings or curls

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line three 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.

2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

3. Add the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined. Gradually stir in the boiling water until smooth.

4. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool completely.

5. To prepare the strawberry filling, combine the strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice in a saucepan over medium heat. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Dissolve the cornstarch in water and stir into the strawberry mixture. Cook until thickened, then let cool completely.

6. For the ganache, heat the heavy cream in a saucepan until it begins to simmer. Pour over the chopped chocolate in a bowl and stir until smooth. Let cool until slightly thickened.

7. For the whipped cream frosting, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.

8. Assemble the cake by placing one layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of strawberry filling and a thin layer of whipped cream. Repeat with the second layer. Place the third layer on top and frost the entire cake with whipped cream.

9. Drizzle the ganache over the top and let it cascade down the sides. Garnish with fresh strawberries and chocolate shavings. Chill for 30 minutes before serving.

Prep Time: 40 minutes | Baking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour, 10 minutes

Kcal: 450 kcal | Servings: 12 slices