Dark Velvet Strawberry Cake

Dark Velvet Strawberry Cake is a delightful dessert that combines rich chocolatey flavors with the sweet freshness of strawberries. This stunning cake stands out at gatherings, making it the perfect choice for birthdays, anniversaries, or just a special treat for yourself. Whether you are a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe will guide you through every step to create a show-stopping dessert.

Why Make This Recipe

There are many reasons to make Dark Velvet Strawberry Cake. First, it is visually striking with its deep color and fresh fruit garnish, making it a crowd-pleaser. Second, the combination of chocolate and strawberries is simply delicious, creating a perfect balance of flavors. Finally, making this cake is a fun and enjoyable experience that will leave you with a satisfying feeling of accomplishment.

How to Make Dark Velvet Strawberry Cake

Ingredients

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 tsp baking soda
1 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 cup buttermilk
1 cup vegetable oil
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
2 large eggs
2 tsp vanilla extract
2 tbsp red food coloring
1/2 cup water
1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, chopped
1/2 cup granulated sugar (for filling)
1 tbsp lemon juice
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract (for frosting)
1-2 tbsp heavy cream (optional, for frosting)
Fresh strawberries (for garnish)
Optional: Chocolate shavings or sprinkles

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cocoa powder.
In a large bowl, whisk the buttermilk, vegetable oil, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until smooth.
Stir in the red food coloring and water until well combined.
Pour the batter evenly into the cake pans.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
For the strawberry filling, combine the strawberries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring until thickened, about 10-15 minutes. Cool completely.
For the cream cheese frosting, beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until fully incorporated.
Add vanilla extract and mix until smooth; add heavy cream if needed for consistency.
Once cooled, place one cake layer on a serving platter, spread the strawberry filling on top, and add the second layer.
Frost the entire cake with cream cheese frosting and smooth out.
Garnish with fresh strawberries and, optionally, chocolate shavings or sprinkles. Slice and enjoy!

How to Serve Dark Velvet Strawberry Cake

Serve Dark Velvet Strawberry Cake at room temperature or slightly chilled. It’s lovely on its own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside for an extra touch of indulgence.

How to Store Dark Velvet Strawberry Cake

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3 to 5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. They’ll keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Tips to Make Dark Velvet Strawberry Cake

Measure your ingredients accurately for the best outcome.
Make sure your butter and cream cheese are at room temperature for a smoother frosting.
Feel free to add more strawberries for a sweeter filling or adjust the lemon juice to balance the flavors to your liking.

Variation

You can experiment with this recipe by using different fruit fillings, like raspberries or blueberries, for a different flavor profile. Alternatively, you can use a chocolate ganache for the frosting instead of cream cheese for an even richer chocolate taste.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?
A1: Yes, you can use regular milk with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice mixed in to create buttermilk.

Q2: How do I know if my cake is done baking?
A2: Insert a toothpick in the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the cake is done.

Q3: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
A3: Yes, you can bake the cake layers the day before and frost it the day you plan to serve it. Just store the layers in the fridge to keep them fresh.

Enjoy creating this delicious Dark Velvet Strawberry Cake and savor each delightful bite!