The Strawberry Chocolate Ganache Cake Recipe is an irresistible delight that combines rich, velvety chocolate with the bright, juicy sweetness of fresh strawberries. This luscious cake brings together moist chocolate layers enveloped in a silky ganache, then studded with fresh strawberry pieces that add texture and freshness in every bite. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just craving a decadent treat, this recipe promises a show-stopping dessert that’s as stunning as it is delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Strawberry Chocolate Ganache Cake Recipe keeps things simple with essential ingredients that you might already have or can easily find. Each component plays a crucial role— from the intense chocolate flavor of the cake base and ganache to the refreshing burst of strawberries that balance the sweetness perfectly.
- Dark chocolate cake mix: The foundation providing a rich, chocolatey flavor and moist texture in minutes.
- Salted butter: Adds creaminess and depth to the ganache while balancing sweetness.
- Whipping cream: Creates that smooth, glossy ganache with the perfect consistency.
- Bittersweet chocolate morsels: Provides a deep, slightly bitter chocolate richness.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips: Adds a touch of sweetness and melt-in-your-mouth texture to the ganache.
- Fresh strawberries (3-4 cups, chopped): Bring fresh fruity brightness and a lovely pop of color inside the cake.
- Fresh strawberries (6, halved lengthwise): Perfect for decorating the top and enhancing the cake’s visual appeal.
- White chocolate: Offers a contrasting color and creamy sweetness for garnishing.
- Vegetable oil: Helps create a smooth drizzle when mixed with white chocolate.
How to Make Strawberry Chocolate Ganache Cake Recipe
Step 1: Bake the chocolate cake
Start by following the package instructions for the dark chocolate cake mix. Bake the cake in a 9×13 inch pan until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once baked, set it aside to cool completely—about one hour. This cool down is crucial so the cake cubes don’t get soggy when combined with the ganache.
Step 2: Prepare the luscious chocolate ganache
While the cake cools, add the salted butter and whipping cream to a small saucepan on medium heat. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then immediately add the bittersweet morsels and semi-sweet chocolate chips. Turn off the heat and let the mixture sit for a couple of minutes before stirring until it’s perfectly silky smooth. This ganache is the star that ties this recipe all together.
Step 3: Crumble the cake
Using a sharp knife, cut the cooled cake into 1-inch cubes. Place half of these cubes in a mixing bowl, and beat them on low speed until they become crumbs. This step helps create a luscious texture, turning the cake base into a truffle-like mixture ready to absorb the ganache flavors.
Step 4: Combine cake crumbs and ganache
Pour 1 and 3/4 cups of the ganache into the crumb mixture and continue to beat until fully combined. Then, add the remaining cake cubes and give everything a good beat to blend all ingredients thoroughly—this forms the decadent truffle base of the cake.
Step 5: Fold in chopped strawberries
Gently fold the chopped fresh strawberries into the cake mixture with a wooden spoon. Be careful not to overmix, as you want the juicy berries to retain some texture. This is the moment when the fresh strawberry flavor really shines through, bringing brightness and a bit of tang to the rich chocolate base.
Step 6: Assemble in the springform pan
Line the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan with wax paper cut to fit. Spoon or pour your cake mixture into the pan and smooth the top with a spatula or spoon to create an even surface. This sets the stage for the final beautiful presentation.
Step 7: Chill to set
Cover the cake with plastic wrap and place it in the freezer for 45 minutes. The goal here is to firm up the cake so it holds its shape without freezing it solid. If you plan to frost later, storing the cake in the fridge after chilling is just fine to maintain texture.
Step 8: Release and invert the cake
Carefully run a plastic knife around the edges of the pan to loosen the cake. Remove the outer ring of the springform, invert the cake onto a serving plate or cake stand, and peel off the wax paper from what is now the top of the cake. It’s a delicate step, but the cake’s firmness will make it smooth and easy.
Step 9: Frost the cake with reserved ganache
Frost the top and sides with the reserved ganache. Because the ganache is thin, chilling the cake before frosting helps it spread evenly without melting the cake’s surface. Pop it back into the freezer briefly if it starts to get too soft.
Step 10: Decorate with fresh strawberries
Artfully arrange the six halved strawberries on the top of the cake. This fresh garnish not only elevates the cake’s appearance but also provides a lovely fruit flavor in every bite.
Step 11: Drizzle with white chocolate
In a small bowl, melt the white chocolate with vegetable oil in short bursts using the microwave until it’s just starting to melt. Stir until completely smooth. Transfer to a small plastic bag, snip a tiny corner, and drizzle elegant white chocolate lines over the cake. This final touch adds gorgeous contrast and creamy sweetness that completes the look.
How to Serve Strawberry Chocolate Ganache Cake Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh strawberry halves are the classic, eye-catching garnish for this cake, but you can also add a sprinkle of chopped toasted nuts or a light dusting of powdered sugar for extra flair. A few mint leaves can add a fresh, herbal note that pairs beautifully with the chocolate and strawberries.
Side Dishes
This cake shines on its own, but when serving alongside a lightly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream, you create a truly memorable dessert experience. A simple espresso or berry-infused tea can also complement and balance the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving individual slices topped with a fresh strawberry fan and a small drizzle of white chocolate sauce on the plate. For parties, consider turning the cake into mini truffles by rolling small scoops into chocolate sprinkles or cocoa powder. Presentation is part of the fun, and this Strawberry Chocolate Ganache Cake Recipe offers plenty of room to get creative!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftover cake covered tightly in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to preserve freshness and maintain the ganache’s creamy texture. Bringing it to room temperature before serving helps bring back the best flavor and softness.
Freezing
You can freeze the whole cake or individual slices by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and storing them in an airtight container. Frozen cake maintains flavor and texture well for up to one month. Thaw the cake slowly in the refrigerator overnight to keep it moist and delicious.
Reheating
This cake is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, so reheating is generally not recommended. However, if you prefer your chocolate warm, you can microwave individual slices for a few seconds, but watch closely to avoid melting the ganache or strawberries.
FAQs
Can I use homemade chocolate cake instead of a box mix?
Absolutely! Homemade chocolate cake works wonderfully and gives you full control over flavors and sweetness. Just ensure it’s dense enough to hold up when cut into cubes and mixed with ganache.
What type of strawberries work best for this recipe?
Fresh, ripe strawberries are best for that bright, natural sweetness and firm texture. Try to avoid overly soft or underripe berries to keep the cake from becoming soggy.
Can this cake be made dairy-free?
It’s possible with substitutions like coconut cream for whipping cream and dairy-free chocolate chips. Just be mindful that texture and flavor will shift slightly, but the result can still be deliciously satisfying.
Is it necessary to freeze the cake before frosting?
Yes, chilling the cake helps it firm up so the ganache spreads smoothly without melting the sides or making the cake collapse. It’s a crucial step for clean, beautiful frosting.
How long does the Strawberry Chocolate Ganache Cake Recipe last at room temperature?
Because it contains fresh strawberries and ganache, it’s best kept refrigerated and consumed within a couple of days. Leaving it out at room temperature for extended periods can risk spoilage and affect texture.
Final Thoughts
This Strawberry Chocolate Ganache Cake Recipe is a celebration of flavors and textures that feels special yet approachable for home bakers of all levels. Its balance of rich, smooth chocolate and fresh strawberry juiciness will surely earn you rave reviews from family and friends. So go ahead—gather these simple ingredients, follow these joyful steps, and treat yourself to one seriously stunning dessert that’s as fun to make as it is to enjoy!
