Chocolate Strawberry Dream Cake is a rich, melt-in-your-mouth chocolate dessert layered with silky chocolate cream and fresh, juicy strawberries. Each bite balances deep cocoa flavor with light, fluffy cream and the natural sweetness of ripe strawberries. The result is a dessert that feels indulgent yet fresh, making it perfect for celebrations, special occasions, or whenever a truly dreamy cake is desired.
Ingredients
For the Chocolate Cake
- 1 ¾ cups (220 g) all-purpose flour – Provides the structure for the cake and ensures a soft yet stable crumb.
- ¾ cup (75 g) cocoa powder – Gives the cake its deep chocolate flavor and dark color.
- 2 cups (400 g) sugar – Sweetens the cake and helps create moistness.
- 1 ½ tsp baking powder – Works with the baking soda to help the cake rise evenly.
- 1 ½ tsp baking soda – Reacts with the buttermilk for a tender and airy texture.
- 1 tsp salt – Enhances the chocolate flavor and balances sweetness.
- 2 large eggs – Add structure, richness, and moisture.
- ½ cup (120 ml) vegetable oil – Keeps the cake soft and moist even after chilling.
- 1 cup (240 ml) buttermilk (or milk + 1 tbsp lemon juice) – Adds tanginess and helps tenderize the crumb.
- 1 cup (240 ml) hot water – Blooming the cocoa with hot water intensifies the chocolate flavor.
- 2 tsp vanilla extract – Rounds out the sweetness with warm aromatic notes.
For the Chocolate Cream Filling
- 1 ½ cups (360 ml) heavy cream – Whips into a light and airy base for the filling.
- 200 g dark chocolate, melted and cooled – Provides rich chocolate flavor without overpowering sweetness.
- 3 tbsp powdered sugar – Gently sweetens the whipped cream while keeping the texture smooth.
- 1 tsp vanilla – Enhances the depth of the chocolate cream.
For the Strawberry Layer
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced – Add freshness, acidity, and natural sweetness between the layers.
- 1 tbsp sugar (optional, for extra juiciness) – Draws out the natural juices of the strawberries.
For the Topping
- Strawberries (whole or halved) – Used for decoration and added freshness.
- Chocolate ganache OR melted chocolate drizzle (optional) – Adds a glossy finish and extra richness.
