Strawberry Chocolate Drip Cake Recipe

If you are looking for a dessert that perfectly balances the rich, decadent flavor of chocolate with the fresh, vibrant sweetness of berries, then you are going to fall head over heels for this Strawberry Chocolate Drip Cake. This gorgeous cake features moist chocolate layers paired with airy whipped cream infused with juicy strawberries, all crowned with a glossy chocolate ganache that drips elegantly over the edges. It’s a showstopper of a cake that not only tastes amazing but looks like it belongs in a bakery window. Whether it’s a celebration or just a treat-yourself moment, this Strawberry Chocolate Drip Cake is the ultimate way to impress with flavor and beauty.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating this stunning cake is simpler than it looks because it starts with straightforward, quality ingredients that each play an important role. From the rich cocoa in the cake base to the cold heavy cream that whips into fluffy clouds, every element contributes to the taste, texture, and elegant appearance.

• 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour: The foundation for your moist chocolate layers, ensuring structure and bite.
• 1 ½ cups (300 g) granulated sugar: Balances the chocolate’s bitterness with sweetness.
• ¾ cup (75 g) unsweetened cocoa powder: Adds the deep, rich chocolate flavor that makes this cake irresistible.
• 2 tsp baking powder: Helps give your cake the perfect lift and fluffiness.
• 1 tsp baking soda: Works alongside baking powder to create light, airy layers.
• ½ tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors, preventing sweetness from feeling flat.
• 1 cup (240 ml) buttermilk (or milk + 1 tbsp lemon juice): Adds moisture and a subtle tang to balance the sweetness.
• ½ cup (120 ml) vegetable oil: Keeps the cake tender and moist for days.
• 2 large eggs: Bind everything together and provide richness.
• 2 tsp vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the chocolate flavor.
• 1 cup (240 ml) hot coffee or hot water: Intensifies the cocoa flavor and ensures a tender crumb.
• 3 cups (720 ml) heavy whipping cream, cold: Whipped to fluffy perfection, it’s the star of the filling and frosting.
• ¾ cup (90 g) powdered sugar: Sweetens the whipped cream without graininess.
• 2 tsp vanilla extract (for frosting): Adds a lovely aroma and flavor enhancement to the cream.
• 1 cup (150 g) diced fresh strawberries: Bursts of fruity freshness scattered in the whipped cream filling.
• 1 cup (170 g) semi-sweet chocolate chips: Turned into luscious ganache for that signature drip effect.
• ½ cup (120 ml) heavy cream (for ganache): Smooths the chocolate for dripping down the sides.
• Fresh whole strawberries: Final decoration that adds natural beauty and a pop of color.
• Extra whipped cream: For piping pretty swirls on top to complete the presentation.

How to Make Strawberry Chocolate Drip Cake

Step 1: Bake the Cake Layers

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and preparing two 8-inch round pans with grease and parchment paper lining. Mixing the dry ingredients—flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt—in a large bowl builds the chocolatey foundation. Then add the wet ingredients: buttermilk, oil, eggs, and vanilla, stirring until smooth. The magic happens when you slowly incorporate hot coffee or water; your batter will become thin but don’t worry, it’s how it should be for indulgently moist layers. Pour the batter evenly into your pans and bake for about 30 to 35 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean. After they come out of the oven, be sure to let the cakes cool completely before moving on.

Step 2: Make the Whipped Cream Frosting and Filling

Chill your bowl and beaters beforehand to help the heavy cream whip up beautifully. Then whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form, which means your cream is thick and holds its shape. Reserve about a third of this fluffy goodness for decorating the outside of the cake later. Fold diced fresh strawberries into the remaining whipped cream gently — this will be your juicy and light filling between the cake layers.

Step 3: Assemble the Cake

Place one cake layer on your serving plate and spread the strawberry whipped cream evenly on top. Add the second cake layer and then cover the entire cake with the plain whipped cream frosting, smoothing it out to create a clean canvas for your chocolate drip. Take your time here — the neater, the better finale you’ll have!

Step 4: Create and Apply the Chocolate Ganache Drip

To make the glossy drip that makes this cake stand out, heat the half cup of heavy cream just until it’s steaming — avoid boiling. Pour this hot cream over the chocolate chips and let sit for two minutes to soften the chocolate, then stir until you get a smooth, silky ganache. Allow it to cool slightly so it thickens enough to drip slowly but not too thick to pour. Carefully spoon or pipe the ganache around the edges of the cake letting it drip down, then spread a bit on top for a luxe finish.

Step 5: Decorate with Whipped Cream and Strawberries

With the remaining whipped cream in a piping bag fitted with your favorite tip, add pretty swirls or rosettes on top of the cake. Crown those swirls with whole fresh strawberries for a look that’s classic, elegant, and simply mouthwatering. Pop the cake into the fridge for at least an hour so it firms up and slices cleanly when you’re ready to serve.

How to Serve Strawberry Chocolate Drip Cake

Garnishes

Beyond the luscious chocolate ganache and fresh strawberries, consider adding mint leaves for a refreshing contrast or a sprinkle of crushed pistachios for extra crunch and color. Lightly dusting the top with powdered sugar can add a delicate touch reminiscent of morning dew on fruit.

Side Dishes

This Strawberry Chocolate Drip Cake pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of lemon curd to brighten each bite. If you want a beverage accompaniment, a rich espresso or a chilled glass of sparkling rosé will elevate the flavors even more.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning centerpiece, place the cake on a glass or mirrored cake stand to showcase the glossy chocolate drips from every angle. You can also slice and serve individual portions in clear dessert dishes layered with extra strawberries and whipped cream for a deconstructed twist on the cake.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your Strawberry Chocolate Drip Cake, wrap leftovers tightly with plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The whipped cream frosting means it’s best eaten within 2 to 3 days for optimal freshness and flavor.

Freezing

To freeze, wrap the cake tightly in multiple layers of plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to protect against freezer burn. When you want to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving to keep the texture intact.

Reheating

This cake is best served chilled, so reheating is not recommended. If you prefer a softer ganache, you can let the cake sit at room temperature for 15 to 20 minutes before slicing and serving.

FAQs

Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?

Absolutely! If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, simply add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to 1 cup of regular milk and let it sit for 5 minutes. This DIY buttermilk gives you the same tang and moisture the recipe needs.

How do I get a smooth chocolate drip effect?

The key is the ganache temperature. It should be warm and pourable but not hot. If it’s too warm, it will run too fast; if too cool, it won’t drip properly. Also, use a spoon or a piping bag to control the drips along the edge for uniformity.

Can I substitute the strawberries with other fruits?

Yes! Blueberries, raspberries, or even cherries work wonderfully in the whipped cream filling and as decoration. Just be mindful of their moisture content as it might affect the frosting consistency slightly.

Is it possible to make this cake vegan?

While this recipe relies on dairy and eggs for its classic texture and flavor, vegan substitutions like plant-based milks, coconut cream whipped frosting, and flax eggs can be experimented with to create a dairy-free or vegan-friendly version.

How far in advance can I assemble the cake?

You can assemble the Strawberry Chocolate Drip Cake a day in advance and keep it refrigerated. This actually helps the flavors to meld together and the ganache to set beautifully for clean slices.

Final Thoughts

Making a Strawberry Chocolate Drip Cake might just become one of your favorite culinary adventures because it brings such joy and wow-factor to the table. Whether you’re a chocolate lover, a fan of fresh strawberries, or simply enjoy baking something that looks and tastes like a masterpiece, this cake is a winner. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself to a slice of this gorgeous, luscious cake — it’s a celebration in every bite!