If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert that combines rich chocolate layers with bright, fresh strawberry flavor, this Strawberry Chocolate Layer Cake is exactly what you need. Moist chocolate cake layers are filled with homemade strawberry jam and juicy diced strawberries, then topped with a luscious strawberry cream cheese frosting that’s silky, lightly tangy, and beautifully pink.

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This cake is perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, Valentine’s Day, baby showers, or any celebration that calls for something elegant yet comforting. The combination of deep cocoa flavor and sweet strawberry filling creates a balanced dessert that feels both indulgent and refreshing.

Whether you’re an experienced baker or making your first layered cake, this detailed guide will walk you through every step for guaranteed success.

Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Chocolate Layer Cake

There are many chocolate cake recipes out there, but this one stands out because of the fresh strawberry element layered throughout.

• Moist, tender chocolate cake with a rich cocoa flavor

• Homemade strawberry jam for natural sweetness

• Fresh diced strawberries for texture and brightness

• Creamy strawberry cream cheese frosting

• Perfect balance of sweet and slightly tangy

• Ideal for celebrations and special occasions

• Beautiful presentation with four distinct layers

This is not just another chocolate cake recipe. It’s a layered masterpiece that tastes as stunning as it looks.

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Ingredients Overview

Let’s break down each component so you understand how everything works together.

Strawberry Jam (Homemade or Store-Bought)

• 500 g strawberries (fresh or frozen)

• 50 g granulated sugar

• 1 tablespoon water

This jam creates a concentrated strawberry flavor that cuts through the richness of the chocolate. Making it at home ensures better texture and natural taste.

Chocolate Cake

• 190 g all-purpose flour

• 75 g natural cocoa powder

• 1 teaspoon baking powder

• ½ teaspoon baking soda

• ½ teaspoon salt

• 115 g unsalted butter, melted

• 100 g light-tasting oil

• 100 g granulated sugar

• 100 g brown sugar

• 2 large eggs (room temperature)

• 330 g milk (room temperature)

The combination of butter and oil keeps the cake both flavorful and extremely moist. Brown sugar adds depth and softness, while cocoa powder provides a rich chocolate base.

Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting

• 250 g cream cheese (softened)

• 115 g unsalted butter (softened)

• 100 g powdered sugar

• 70 g strawberry jam

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

This frosting is smooth, creamy, and slightly tangy, balancing the sweetness of the jam filling perfectly.
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Filling & Decoration

• 200 g finely diced strawberries

• 7 strawberries, halved

Fresh strawberries add texture between layers and give the cake a vibrant, professional finish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Strawberry Jam

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine strawberries, sugar, and water. Stir occasionally while the strawberries break down.

After 10–15 minutes, the mixture will thicken into a glossy jam. Remove from heat and allow it to cool completely before using.

Pro Tip:
If you want a smoother jam, lightly blend it after cooking.

Step 2: Make the Chocolate Cake Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 6-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

In a separate large bowl, combine melted butter, oil, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Mix until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

Gradually alternate adding the dry ingredients and milk into the wet mixture. Mix until just combined. Do not overmix.

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.

Step 3: Bake the Cake Layers

Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Allow them to cool completely before assembling.

For a four-layer cake:
Once cooled, slice each cake horizontally into two even layers using a serrated knife.

Step 4: Prepare the Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting

In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and butter until completely smooth.

Add powdered sugar gradually, mixing on low speed.

Mix in strawberry jam and vanilla extract. Beat until fluffy and light.

Important Tip:
Make sure both cream cheese and butter are fully softened to avoid lumps.

Step 5: Assemble the Strawberry Chocolate Layer Cake

Place the first chocolate layer on a cake stand.

Spread a thin layer of strawberry jam on top. Add diced strawberries evenly. Spread a light layer of frosting.

Place the second cake layer on top and repeat the process.

Continue until all four layers are stacked.

Step 6: Frost and Decorate

Apply a thin crumb coat and refrigerate for 20–30 minutes.

Frost the entire cake with the remaining strawberry cream cheese frosting. Use an offset spatula to create soft, textured swirls.

Decorate the top with halved strawberries.

Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before slicing for clean cuts.

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Tips for the Perfect Layer Cake

• Always use room temperature ingredients.

• Level cake layers before stacking.

• Chill the cake between frosting steps.

• Use a serrated knife for clean slicing.

• Pat diced strawberries dry to prevent soggy layers.

Storage Instructions

Refrigerator:
Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezer:
Freeze unfrosted cake layers wrapped tightly for up to 2 months.

Bring to room temperature before serving for best flavor.

Variations

Strawberry Chocolate Drip Cake
Add a chocolate ganache drip for extra elegance.

Dark Chocolate Version
Use Dutch-processed cocoa for deeper flavor.

White Chocolate Strawberry Twist
Replace chocolate layers with vanilla cake and add white chocolate ganache.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use store-bought jam?
Yes, but homemade gives better texture and flavor.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes. Bake layers one day ahead and assemble the next day.

Can I make it into cupcakes?
Absolutely. Bake at 350°F for 18–20 minutes.

How do I get clean layers when slicing?
Use a long serrated knife and gentle sawing motion.