Heart-Shaped Chocolate and Strawberry Cake

Name: Heart-Shaped Chocolate and Strawberry Cake
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour; 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar; ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder; 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 large eggs; 1 cup whole milk; ½ cup vegetable oil; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 cup boiling water; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; ¼ cup strawberry puree; 2 tablespoons heavy cream; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Fresh strawberries; Chocolate shavings

Highlighted under: Sweet Treats

When I first set out to create this Heart-Shaped Chocolate and Strawberry Cake, I wanted to capture the essence of love in dessert form. As we whisked together rich cocoa and delicate strawberry puree, it felt like magic was in the air. The cake emerged with a decadent texture, perfectly balanced between chocolatey goodness and fruity freshness. It’s an ideal treat for special occasions or a sweet surprise for someone you cherish, and the lovely heart shape makes it even more special.

Created by

Lara

Last updated on 2026-01-08T11:50:40.975Z

Creating this Heart-Shaped Chocolate and Strawberry Cake was a delightful experience, infused with love and creativity. As the aroma of chocolate filled my kitchen, I couldn't wait to see how the layers would come together. I learned that using fresh strawberries enhances the flavor exponentially and keeps the cake moist.

The heart shape not only makes it visually appealing but also adds a sense of intimacy to any celebration. I recommend letting the cake chill before slicing; it makes for clean edges and a beautiful presentation that will impress anyone you share it with!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh strawberry sweetness
Beautiful heart shape perfect for expressing love
Moist texture that lingers on your palate

      

Choosing the Best Ingredients

Selecting high-quality cocoa powder is essential for achieving that rich chocolate flavor in your cake. Look for Dutch-processed cocoa, which offers a deeper color and complexity compared to natural cocoa. Don't skimp on the freshness of your strawberries either; using ripe strawberries for your puree will elevate the frosting, imparting a more vibrant flavor. You can also experiment with different varieties, like organic or locally sourced strawberries, to enhance the taste.

Another critical ingredient is the whole milk. Its fat content helps to create a moist cake, which pairs perfectly with the fluffy strawberry frosting. If you're looking for a dairy-free option, you can substitute whole milk with almond or oat milk, but keep in mind that it might slightly alter the cake's texture. Similarly, using coconut oil instead of vegetable oil can impart a subtle flavor that complements the chocolate.

Frosting Tips and Techniques

Achieving the perfect consistency for your strawberry frosting is crucial. If the frosting seems too runny, adding a bit more powdered sugar will help thicken it up. Conversely, if it’s too stiff, a splash of heavy cream can help achieve the desired spreadable texture. I recommend frosting the cake while it is in a cool environment; this will prevent the butter from becoming too soft and make it easier to create smooth, even layers.

When applying the frosting, consider using an offset spatula for a more professional finish. Start by applying a thin layer of frosting between the cake layers to ensure they stick together, then add the final coat of frosting, smoothing it out evenly. For an eye-catching design, you can use the back of a spoon to create swirls or peaks, adding visual interest along with the fresh strawberries and chocolate shavings.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delightful cake:

For the Cake

1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
2 large eggs
1 cup whole milk
½ cup vegetable oil
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup boiling water

For the Strawberry Frosting

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
¼ cup strawberry puree
2 tablespoons heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Garnish

Fresh strawberries
Chocolate shavings

Make sure to have all ingredients ready before you start!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create the perfect Heart-Shaped Chocolate and Strawberry Cake:

Prepare the Batter

In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix well. Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla, and beat for 2 minutes on medium speed. Stir in the boiling water until well combined.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into a greased heart-shaped cake pan. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely.

Make the Frosting

In a bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, strawberry puree, heavy cream, and vanilla. Beat until smooth and fluffy.

Assemble the Cake

Once the cake has cooled, place one layer on a serving platter. Spread a layer of strawberry frosting on top, then place the second layer on top. Frost the entire cake and garnish with fresh strawberries and chocolate shavings.

Serve chilled for the best taste!

Pro Tips

For an extra burst of flavor, try adding a splash of vanilla extract to the strawberry puree before mixing it into the frosting.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This heart-shaped chocolate and strawberry cake can be made ahead of time, which is perfect for busy occasions. Once completely cooled, wrap the individual cake layers tightly in plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days or in the freezer for up to a month. Just remember to thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before frosting and assembling.

If you have leftover frosting, it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. When ready to use, simply re-whip it to restore its texture before spreading it onto the cake. This also works well for any extra frosting you might want to serve on the side for guests.

Serving Suggestions

To serve this delightful cake, consider pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful contrast to the rich chocolate. Drizzling extra strawberry puree over the top can also enhance the visual appeal, making the dessert even more inviting. If you want to add an extra layer of texture, chopped nuts or a sprinkle of sea salt can elevate the overall experience.

For those who are looking to host a romantic dinner, slice the cake into heart-shaped pieces using a cookie cutter for an added touch of flair. A sprinkle of powdered sugar just before serving can also make the cake look more elegant, especially if you’re celebrating a special occasion. Don't forget to take a moment to admire the look of this beautiful dessert before indulging!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain them before pureeing to avoid excess moisture in the frosting.

→ How do I store the cake?

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

→ Can I make this cake in advance?

Absolutely! You can bake the cake and freeze it for up to a month. Just thaw it before frosting.

→ What can I substitute for eggs?

You can use flax eggs or applesauce as substitutes for a vegan option.