What makes the perfect dessert even sweeter? Rich chocolate ganache and fresh strawberries, of course. This sweet treat is made with high-quality dark chocolate and served with a side of juicy strawberries for a quick and easy homemade indulgence. Save this idea for your next family favorite dinner party.

the chocolate ganache is being drizzled on top of the cake and served with strawberries

Introduction

Imagine a rich, velvety chocolate ganache gently cascading down the sides of a moist and decadent cake, served alongside a platter of fresh, juicy strawberries. This indulgent dessert is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. What’s more, it’s surprisingly easy to prepare and requires minimal ingredients, making it the perfect centerpiece for any gathering or special occasion. With a few simple steps and some creative flair, you can elevate this classic combination into a truly unforgettable experience.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The combination of dark chocolate, fresh strawberries, and the subtle sweetness of the cake creates a perfect harmony of flavors that is both accessible and indulgent.
• Ease of preparation: Despite its elegant appearance, this dessert requires minimal preparation time and effort, making it an ideal choice for busy schedules or last-minute entertaining.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: The dramatic effect of drizzling chocolate ganache over the cake, paired with the vibrant colors of the strawberries, ensures an impressive presentation that belies the simplicity of its preparation.

Key Ingredients

The success of this dessert hinges on the quality and freshness of its key ingredients. For the cake, a simple yet moist recipe using all-purpose flour, sugar, eggs, and butter is ideal. The chocolate ganache, made from dark chocolate and heavy cream, provides a deep, rich flavor. Fresh strawberries, preferably at the peak of their season, add natural sweetness and a pop of color. Practical substitutions can include using semi-sweet chocolate for a lighter flavor or substituting heavy cream with a non-dairy alternative for a vegan version.

Instructions

1. Step 1: Begin by preparing the cake. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans. In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of granulated sugar, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. In another bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, softened, 1 cup of whole milk, 2 large eggs, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool completely in the pans.
2. Step 2: Prepare the chocolate ganache. In a small saucepan, heat 1 cup of heavy cream over medium heat until it starts to simmer. Remove from heat and pour over 1 cup of dark chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl. Let it sit for 2-3 minutes, then stir until smooth and glossy. Allow the ganache to cool and thicken slightly at room temperature.
3. Step 3: Assemble the dessert. Once the cakes are completely cool, place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. If desired, spread a thin layer of jam or whipped cream on top of the cake for extra flavor and moisture. Place the second cake layer on top. Drizzle the cooled chocolate ganache over the top and sides of the cake, allowing it to set slightly before serving.
4. Step 4: Serve with strawberries. Just before serving, slice fresh strawberries and arrange them alongside the cake. This can be done in a pattern on a platter, in a bowl, or even as a strawberry “tree” on a skewer for a more dramatic effect.

Handy Tips

• For a lighter ganache, use more cream or substitute with a lighter type of chocolate. Conversely, for a thicker ganache, use less cream or refrigerate it for about 10 minutes before drizzling.
• Avoid overheating the ganache, as it can separate and lose its smooth texture. If this happens, whisk in a small amount of warm cream to re-emulsify it.
• Consider using high-quality, fresh strawberries for the best flavor and appearance. If strawberries are out of season, other fruits like raspberries or blueberries can provide a delicious and colorful alternative.

Heat Control

When heating the cream for the ganache, it’s crucial to avoid boiling, as this can cause the cream to scorch or the chocolate to seize when mixed. Ideal heat control involves heating the cream until it just starts to simmer and then removing it from the heat source. For the cake, ensuring the oven is at the correct temperature (350°F or 175°C) is key to achieving the right texture and preventing overcooking.

Crunch Factor

The texture of this dessert is primarily moist and velvety, thanks to the cake and ganache. However, the freshness and slight crunch of the strawberries provide a delightful contrast. To enhance the crunch factor, consider sprinkling chopped nuts or shaved chocolate over the top of the cake before drizzling with ganache.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• For a professional finish, chill the assembled cake in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving. This helps the ganache to set and makes the cake easier to slice and serve.
• Use room temperature ingredients when baking the cake to ensure even mixing and a lighter texture.
• Experiment with different types of chocolate for the ganache, such as white, milk, or flavored chocolates, to offer unique twists on the classic recipe.

Storage Tips

• The cake can be baked ahead of time and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
• The chocolate ganache can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow it to come to room temperature before using.
• Assembled cakes with ganache are best consumed fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Allow the cake to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

Gift Packaging Ideas

This dessert makes a stunning gift, especially when presented in an attractive and protective package. Consider placing the cake on a decorative cake stand or in a gift box lined with parchment paper. Fresh strawberries can be arranged around the cake or placed in a separate container. Finish with a ribbon or gift tag for a personal touch. For a more rustic approach, wrap the cake in a paper bag and tie with twine, including a small bunch of fresh strawberries on the side.

Flavor Variations

• Different spices: Add a pinch of salt, a teaspoon of vanilla extract, or a sprinkle of cinnamon to the cake batter for unique flavor profiles.
• Creative toppings: Instead of strawberries, try using other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or sliced peaches. Nuts, chocolate shavings, or even candy pieces can also add fun and texture.
• Ingredient swaps: Substitute the all-purpose flour with almond flour for a gluten-free option or use dairy-free milk and chocolate for a vegan version.

Troubleshooting

• Texture problems: If the cake turns out too dense, check that the ingredients were at room temperature and that the batter was not overmixed. For the ganache, if it becomes too thick, warm it slightly over low heat or whisk in a bit more cream.
• Ingredient replacements: Always choose replacements that offer similar properties to the original ingredient. For example, replacing butter with oil can significantly alter the texture and flavor of the cake.
• Over/undercooking signs: For the cake, check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, the cake is done. For the ganache, avoid overheating, which can cause it to separate or lose its shine.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? Yes, the cake can be frozen for up to 2 months. However, it’s best to freeze the cake without the ganache and assemble just before serving for the best texture and appearance.
• Is it gluten-free? The original recipe includes gluten due to the all-purpose flour. However, you can make a gluten-free version by substituting the flour with a gluten-free alternative.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, the recipe can be doubled or even tripled for larger gatherings. Just ensure you have enough pans for the cake and adjust the baking time slightly for larger cakes.

Conclusion

This beautiful dessert, with its rich chocolate ganache and fresh strawberries atop a moist cake, is a true showstopper that’s deceptively easy to make. With a few simple steps and some quality ingredients, you can create a dessert that’s sure to impress any crowd. Feel free to experiment with different flavors and toppings to make it your own, and don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions or to share your creations. Happy baking, and let’s indulge in the sweetness of life, one delicious dessert at a time!