Chocolate Covered Strawberry Galentine's Cake

Name: Chocolate Covered Strawberry Galentine's Cake
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour; 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 2 cups granulated sugar; 1 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1 tsp salt; 2 large eggs; 1 cup whole milk; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 2 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup boiling water; 1 cup heavy cream; 8 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped; Fresh strawberries, washed and dried; Chocolate shavings or sprinkles (optional)

Highlighted under: Festive Meal Collection

I absolutely adore celebrating friendships and what better way to do that than with a scrumptious Chocolate Covered Strawberry Galentine's Cake! Combining rich chocolate with fresh strawberries creates a delightful flavor explosion that is perfect for sharing. This cake is not just beautiful to look at, but the layer of fudgy chocolate and juicy, tart strawberries makes it a real crowd-pleaser. Whether it’s for a special gathering or just a sweet treat for the girls, I know this cake will bring smiles all around!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-05T19:50:30.804Z

Making this cake was such a joy! I remember the first time I decided to combine chocolate with strawberries, and it was an absolute game-changer. The technique I discovered is simple: using fresh strawberries for decoration infuses the cake with natural sweetness that balances out the rich chocolate. Plus, it looks stunning!

As I crafted each layer, I found that allowing the ganache to cool slightly before spreading it made a world of difference. The texture became smoother, resulting in a glossy finish that left everyone asking for a second slice. It’s become a staple for all my gatherings!

        Why You'll Love This Cake
        Decadent chocolate with a fruity twist from fresh strawberries.
Visually stunning, making it a showstopper at any gathering.
Perfectly moist with a melt-in-your-mouth texture.

      

The Importance of Ingredient Quality

Choosing high-quality cocoa powder is crucial for the rich chocolate flavor that defines this cake. Look for brands that offer 100% cocoa without additives. Dutch-process cocoa is a great option, as it provides a smooth taste and deep color. In addition, fresh strawberries are essential; their natural sweetness and tartness amplify the cake's overall flavor. Avoid overripe or mushy strawberries, as they won't hold up as well during assembly and decoration.

The role of the eggs in this recipe cannot be overstated. They not only act as binders but also contribute to the cake’s moisture and structure, ensuring a tender crumb. For a vegan alternative, you can substitute each egg with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a commercial egg replacer. Just be aware that the final texture may differ slightly, but you'll still achieve a delicious cake.

Perfecting the Ganache

When preparing the ganache, be vigilant about the temperature of the heavy cream. Bringing it to just below boiling will provide the ideal environment for melting the chocolate smoothly. If the ganache becomes too hot, it may separate or seize when you combine it with the chocolate. A brief resting period of about 5 minutes after pouring the cream allows the chocolate to soften without further cooking, resulting in a perfectly glossy finish.

If you're looking to add some unique flavors to the ganache, consider infusing the cream with vanilla beans or a splash of espresso before mixing it with the chocolate. This subtle twist can elevate the cake’s profile and create a delightful surprise for those indulging. Just make sure to strain the cream after infusing to remove any solid bits before mixing it with the chocolate.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients to ensure a smooth baking experience!

For the Cake

1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
2 cups granulated sugar
1 1/2 tsp baking powder
1 1/2 tsp baking soda
1 tsp salt
2 large eggs
1 cup whole milk
1/2 cup vegetable oil
2 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup boiling water

For the Ganache

1 cup heavy cream
8 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped

For Decoration

Fresh strawberries, washed and dried
Chocolate shavings or sprinkles (optional)

Make sure to measure everything carefully for the best results!

Instructions

Let's begin by baking the cake!

Prepare the Cake Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla and mix until well combined.

Carefully stir in the boiling water; the batter will be thin.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter evenly into two greased round cake pans. Bake for about 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once done, allow cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks.

Make the Ganache

Heat the heavy cream in a saucepan until just boiling. Pour it over the chopped chocolate in a bowl. Let it stand for a few minutes, then stir until smooth and glossy.

Allow the ganache to cool slightly before using.

Assemble the Cake

Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of ganache on top. Place the second cake layer on top and pour the remaining ganache over the top, allowing it to drip down the sides.

Decorate the Cake

Garnish the top with fresh strawberries and, if desired, chocolate shavings or sprinkles. Allow the cake to set for about 30 minutes before serving.

Enjoy your delicious creation with friends!

Pro Tips

To prevent the cake from sticking, ensure you grease the cake pans thoroughly and consider using parchment paper at the bottom.

Storage Tips

Once assembled, you should store your Chocolate Covered Strawberry Galentine's Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will keep it fresh, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. The ganache will firm up slightly, creating a wonderful texture contrast with the moist cake. It's recommended to consume the cake within three days for optimal freshness, as strawberries can lose their vibrancy over time.

If you're preparing the cake in advance, consider baking the layers and ganache separately, allowing both to cool completely before storing. The cake layers can be wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and frozen for up to three months. When ready to assemble, simply allow them to thaw in the refrigerator overnight and proceed with your ganache and strawberry decoration.

Serving Suggestions

This cake shines on its own, but for an extra elegant touch, serve it with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It adds a delightful creaminess that balances the richness of the cake and complements the strawberries perfectly. Pairing with a light dessert wine or sparkling rosé makes this cake an even more festive choice.

For a fun variation, consider stuffing the layers with strawberry jam or whipped cream in addition to the ganache. This injects more fruity flavor into each slice, adding an exciting twist to the traditional flavors. Moreover, if you're feeling adventurous, adding a hint of peppermint extract to the ganache can create a festive chocolate mint cake perfect for celebrations.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Fresh strawberries offer the best flavor and presentation, but you can use thawed frozen strawberries if necessary.

→ How should I store leftover cake?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend for a gluten-free version.

→ What can I substitute for eggs?

You can use flaxseed meal or applesauce as an egg substitute in this recipe.