Strawberry Chocolate Drip Celebration Cake
A stunning dessert that combines rich chocolate layers with fresh strawberries, topped with a decadent chocolate drip perfect for any special occasion.
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 2 cups all-purpose flour 250g
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder 75g
- 2 cups granulated sugar 400g
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1.5 tsp baking soda
- 0.5 tsp salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk 240ml
- 0.5 cup vegetable oil 120ml
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup hot coffee or hot water 240ml
For the Frosting
- 1 cup unsalted butter 225g, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar 480g
- 2 tbsp cocoa powder
- 3-4 tbsp heavy cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Drip
- 1 cup milk chocolate chips 170g
- 0.5 cup heavy cream 120ml
For Decoration
- Chocolate buttercream swirls For decoration
- Chocolate stars or piped frosting details
- Chocolate curls or shavings Optional
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 8-inch round cake pans.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Add eggs, buttermilk, oil, and vanilla extract. Mix until combined, then slowly stir in the hot coffee for a smooth, rich batter.
Baking
- Divide the batter evenly between the cake pans and bake for 30-35 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool completely before frosting.
Frosting
- For the frosting, beat the butter until creamy and fluffy.
- Gradually add powdered sugar, cocoa powder, heavy cream, and vanilla extract until silky smooth.
- Layer and frost the cake generously, smoothing the sides with a scraper for that clean bakery-style finish.
- Refrigerate the cake for 15-20 minutes to firm up the frosting before adding the drip.
Chocolate Drip
- For the chocolate drip, heat the heavy cream until steaming, then pour over the chocolate chips.
- Let sit for 2 minutes before stirring until glossy and smooth.
- Spoon the ganache around the edges of the cake, letting it drip naturally down the sides, then spread the remaining ganache over the top.
Decoration and Serving
- Pipe elegant chocolate frosting swirls across the center and decorate with fresh strawberries and chocolate details.
- Chill slightly before slicing for clean, beautiful layers. Serve with fresh coffee or cold milk.
Notes
Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for a smoother batter. For an extra chocolatey flavor, add chocolate chips to the batter. Use fresh strawberries for decorating just before serving for the best texture and flavor. Consider variations like adding a layer of strawberry jam for a fruity surprise or incorporating nuts for crunch.