Ingredients
Cake Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 4 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
Additional Flavoring
- Melted chocolate (quantity as needed for one batter portion)
- Pureed strawberries (quantity as needed for one batter portion)
Frosting Ingredients
- 1 cup softened butter
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pans: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease three round cake pans or line them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt until thoroughly combined.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, blend the eggs, whole milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gradually incorporate this wet mixture into the dry ingredients, mixing gently to avoid overmixing which can make the cake dense.
- Divide and Flavor Batter: Divide the batter evenly into three separate bowls. Into one portion, stir melted chocolate until fully incorporated to create a rich chocolate layer. Into another, fold in pureed strawberries for the strawberry layer. Leave the third portion plain for the vanilla layer.
- Bake the Layers: Pour each flavored batter into its own prepared pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove from oven and allow the cakes to cool completely before proceeding to frosting.
- Prepare Frosting and Assemble: Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and continue to beat until the frosting is smooth and fluffy. Spread the frosting evenly between each cake layer and cover the entire cake with the remaining frosting, creating a smooth, finished look.
Notes
- Ensure eggs are at room temperature to improve batter consistency.
- Do not overmix the batter to keep the cake light and fluffy.
- Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the pureed strawberry layer for best flavor.
- Allow cake layers to cool completely to prevent frosting from melting.
- The frosting can be chilled slightly before applying to help spread evenly.
- Store the cake covered in the refrigerator; consume within 3-4 days for freshness.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian