Double Chocolate Layer Cake with Vanilla Buttercream and Fresh Strawberries
A tall, rustic double chocolate layer cake filled with vanilla buttercream and topped with fresh strawberries. Perfect for special occasions.
Ingredients
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2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
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1 cup cocoa powder
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2 ½ tsp baking powder
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1 ½ tsp baking soda
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1 tsp salt
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1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
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1 cup unsalted butter, softened
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3 large eggs
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1 ½ cups whole milk
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2 tsp vanilla extract
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1 cup boiling water
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1 cup unsalted butter, softened
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4 cups powdered sugar
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2 tbsp heavy cream (or milk)
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2 tsp vanilla extract
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A pinch of salt
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1 cup fresh strawberries, halved
How To Do
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1.Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans.
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2.In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
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3.Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Once combined, pour in the boiling water and mix until smooth (the batter will be thin).
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4.Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
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5.In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Beat until smooth and fluffy.
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6.Once the cakes are completely cool, cut each cake horizontally to create four layers in total. Place the first cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous amount of buttercream on top. Repeat this process with the remaining layers, leaving the sides exposed for the "naked" cake effect.
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7.Spread a thin layer of buttercream on the top layer. Arrange the halved strawberries in a circular pattern on top. Optional: Add edible pearls or sprinkles for an extra decorative touch.
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8.Chill the cake for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the buttercream to set. Enjoy this deliciously moist and creamy chocolate cake with friends and family!