Why is it called Depression Cake?

Depression cake, also known as “wacky cake,” got its name during the Great Depression. Back then, ingredients like milk, eggs, and butter were scarce, so people had to get creative. These cakes are made without those costly ingredients, yet they still turn out moist and flavorful. It’s an inspiring example of making something wonderful with what you have!

What was Julia Child's favorite cake?

Julia Child loved many French desserts, but she had a special fondness for rich chocolate cakes. Her favorite was the Queen of Sheba cake, a dense, almond-flour chocolate cake with a deep, intense flavor. Although it’s not quite the same as a chocolate strawberry cake , both share that irresistible chocolatey goodness!

What is a Mary Jane Cake?

A Mary Jane cake is an old-fashioned treat often flavored with molasses and spices. It’s dense, moist, and usually simple without heavy frostings. While it’s totally different from a fruity, elegant chocolate strawberry cake , Mary Jane cakes still hold a special nostalgic charm for many bakers.

What is the secret to moist chocolate cake?

The big secret to a moist chocolate cake is all about balance. Using oil (instead of only butter), buttermilk, or even sour cream adds lots of moisture. Also, not overbaking is crucial. When making a chocolate strawberry cake , adding a touch of coffee to the batter deepens the chocolate flavor without making it taste like coffee—so delicious!

What is Poor Man’s Cake?

Poor Man’s Cake is another Depression-era dessert made without expensive ingredients like butter, milk, or eggs. Instead, it uses water, raisins, and spices to create a surprisingly rich flavor. Even though it’s worlds apart from a decadent chocolate strawberry cake , both desserts show how creative baking can be!

Why is it called Funeral Cake?

Funeral cake often refers to simple sheet cakes or pound cakes served at gatherings after a funeral. These cakes are easy to make in big batches and are comforting to eat. Unlike a fancy chocolate strawberry cake made for celebrations, funeral cakes are all about offering warmth and care during hard times.

10 Steps to Make the Best Chocolate Strawberry Cake at Home

Name: Chocolate Strawberry Cake
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: – 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour; – 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; – 2 cups granulated sugar; – 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder; – 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda; – 1/2 teaspoon salt; – 2 large eggs (room temperature); – 1 cup whole milk; – 1/2 cup vegetable oil; – 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; – 1 cup boiling water; – 2 cups fresh strawberries (sliced); – 1 1/2 cups heavy cream (for filling and ganache); – 8 oz dark chocolate (for ganache)

Description

A rich and moist chocolate strawberry cake layered with fresh strawberries and smooth chocolate ganache, perfect for any celebration.

Ingredients

– 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour

– 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

– 2 cups granulated sugar

– 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder

– 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda

– 1/2 teaspoon salt

– 2 large eggs (room temperature)

– 1 cup whole milk

– 1/2 cup vegetable oil

– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

– 1 cup boiling water

– 2 cups fresh strawberries (sliced)

– 1 1/2 cups heavy cream (for filling and ganache)

– 8 oz dark chocolate (for ganache)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 8-inch cake pans.

2. Sift together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a bowl.

3. In another bowl, cream sugar and oil until smooth. Add eggs and vanilla, beating well.

4. Gradually add the dry ingredients alternately with milk, mixing just until combined.

5. Stir in boiling water; the batter will be thin. Pour evenly into prepared pans.

6. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

7. Cool cakes completely on wire racks.

8. Prepare the strawberry filling by slicing strawberries and whipping heavy cream until soft peaks form; fold strawberries gently into cream.

9. For ganache, heat 1/2 cup heavy cream until simmering, pour over chopped dark chocolate, and stir until smooth.

10. Assemble the cake: Layer cake, strawberry filling, repeat, and cover with chocolate ganache. Garnish with extra strawberries if desired.

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Dessert
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Calories: 420 kcal

Keywords: chocolate strawberry cake, chocolate desserts, strawberry recipes, homemade chocolate cake, strawberry cake, halal dessert