• Note: This recipe was updated on 29 March, 2026 to improve texture, flavor, and overall consistency.

How to Make Chocolate Cake

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and line two 6-inch (15 cm) round cake pans with baking paper.
• In a bowl, combine milk, apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice), and yogurt to make homemade buttermilk.
• Add cane sugar, light brown sugar, vanilla extract, and vegetable oil. Whisk until the mixture is combined and the sugar has dissolved.
• Sift in all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Mix to combine.
• Gradually add boiling water or brewed coffee and mix until the batter is smooth.
• Divide the batter evenly between the two cake pans
• Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
• Allow the cakes to cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, use a serrated knife to slice each cake into two layers or wrap each cake layer in plastic wrap to cut on the following day.

How to Make Homemade Strawberry Filling (make one day ahead)

• In a sauce pot, combine and stir the diced strawberries with sugar and a splash of water. Let it sit for 10 minutes so the strawberries release their natural juices.
• Bring the mixture to a simmer over low-medium heat, stirring occasionally. Let it simmer for about 7-10 minutes.
• Once the strawberries have softened and mushy, mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Add this mixture to the simmering strawberries.
• Let the filling boil on low heat for an additional 1 minute, stir ocassionaly then remove from the heat. Mix the lemon juice.
• Transfer the filling into a bowl. Cover the surface with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming. Chill the filling completely for 1-2 hours before using.

How to Make Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting

• In a mixing bowl, whip the butter using a paddle attachment or an electric whisk until light and fluffy.
• Gradually add the powdered sugar in 2-3 parts, followed by the vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
• Add the cream cheese and continue mixing until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
• Incorporate the cooled strawberry filling and whip the frosting until it’s smooth, fluffy, and well blended. Add pink food coloring if desired.

How to Assemble Chocolate Strawberry Cake

• Once the cake layers are fully cooled, use a serrated knife to slice each layer into two even layers (you’ll have four layers in total).
• Place the first cake layer on your serving plate or cake board. Spread a layer of frosting on the cake and pipe or use a spoon to a thick border of frosting around the edges of the cake.
• Spread a generous layer of strawberry filling (about 4-6 tablespoons)
• Add the second cake layer on top, then repeat the process - spread strawberry frosting, make a border and add strawberry filling. Continue layering until all layers are stacked.
• Place the final cake layer on top.
• Spread a thin layer of strawberry frosting over the top and sides of the cake to crumb coat the cake. Place the cake in the fridge for 1 hour.
• Add remaining frosting all over the cake and smooth it with a spatula and decorate as desired with extra strawberry frosting, fresh strawberries dipped in chocolate, or other decorations.
• Chill the assembled cake to help the frosting set before serving.
• Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.