Craving something sweet and easy to make? This homemade chocolate cake with strawberry jam is a quick family favorite dessert idea made with simple ingredients, perfect for a weeknight treat, save for later

Chocolate Cake with Strawberry Jam Recipe: A Simple Delicious Dessert Idea

Introduction

Indulge in the richness of chocolate and the sweetness of strawberries with our Chocolate Cake with Strawberry Jam Recipe, a dessert idea that combines simplicity with decadence. This recipe is perfect for those looking to impress with minimal fuss, using everyday ingredients to create a truly special treat. The balance of deep, velvety chocolate and the vibrant, fruity flavor of strawberry jam is a match made in heaven, and the best part is how easily it all comes together. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is sure to become a favorite, offering a delicious dessert solution for any occasion.

Why This Works

Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The combination of chocolate cake and strawberry jam offers a well-rounded flavor profile that is both comforting and exciting, using ingredients that are readily available in most grocery stores.
Ease of preparation: The steps involved in making this dessert are straightforward and simple, requiring minimal specialized equipment or cooking techniques.
Impressive results with minimal effort: Despite its simplicity, the presentation and taste of this dessert are impressive, making it perfect for serving to guests or as a special treat for the family.

Key Ingredients

The main ingredients for this recipe include all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, unsweetened cocoa powder, eggs, milk, strawberry jam, and butter or oil. For those looking for substitutions, almond flour can be used in place of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free option, and coconut sugar can replace granulated sugar for a slightly different flavor profile. The strawberry jam can also be homemade or store-bought, depending on preference and availability.

Instructions

Step 1: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, and a pinch of salt.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine eggs, milk, and melted butter or oil. Whisk until the mixture is smooth. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, whisking until just combined.
Step 3: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 4: Once the cakes are completely cool, place one of them on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of strawberry jam on top of the cake. Place the second cake on top and dust with powdered sugar. Serve and enjoy!

Handy Tips

Use high-quality cocoa powder for the best flavor. Dutch-processed cocoa powder gives a deeper, richer flavor compared to natural cocoa powder.
Don’t overmix the batter, as this can lead to a dense cake. Stop mixing as soon as the ingredients are combined.
For an extra moist cake, try adding an extra tablespoon or two of milk or substituting some of the oil with sour cream or Greek yogurt.

Heat Control

When baking the cakes, it’s crucial to maintain the oven at a consistent temperature of 350°F (180°C). Overheating can cause the cakes to dry out or cook too quickly on the outside before they’re fully cooked inside. Keep an eye on the cakes after the 20-minute mark, checking every few minutes until they’re done. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean, and the top should feel firm to the touch.

Crunch Factor

This dessert is all about tender, moist cake and the sweet, jammy filling. To ensure your cake stays tender, avoid overbaking and make sure to not overmix the batter. The strawberry jam adds a fruity and slightly firmer texture, providing a delightful contrast to the softness of the cake.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

For easier cake removal, make sure to grease the pans properly and line the bottoms with parchment paper. This step can save you from the frustration of having your cakes stick to the pans.
To enhance the chocolate flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of instant coffee powder to the batter. The bitterness of the coffee complements the sweetness of the chocolate beautifully.
Keep your cakes fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Freeze for longer storage, wrapping the cakes tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and placing them in a freezer bag.

Storage Tips

Leftover cake can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days when kept in an airtight container.
For longer storage, consider freezing the cake. Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer bag. Frozen cake can be thawed at room temperature or reheated in the microwave.
When reheating, use short intervals in the microwave (10-15 seconds) and check until the cake is warmed through to your liking. Be careful not to overheat, as this can dry out the cake.

Gift Packaging Ideas

This Chocolate Cake with Strawberry Jam makes a wonderful gift, especially when presented nicely. Consider placing a slice or two in a decorative tin or jar, topping it with additional strawberry jam and fresh strawberries for a pop of color. You can also wrap individual slices in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and tie with a ribbon for a more rustic, homemade look. For a special touch, include a handwritten note with the recipe or a personal message.

Flavor Variations

🌟 Different spices: Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom to the batter for a unique twist on the traditional chocolate cake flavor.
🌟 Creative toppings: Instead of strawberry jam, try using other fruit preserves like raspberry or apricot. You can also top the cake with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or chopped nuts for added texture and flavor.
🌟 Ingredient swaps: Substitute the all-purpose flour with oat flour for a slightly nuttier flavor, or use different types of milk (almond, soy, coconut) for a non-dairy version.

Troubleshooting

Texture problems: If your cake turns out too dense, it might be due to overmixing the batter. Try to mix the ingredients just until they come together for a lighter texture.
Ingredient replacements: If you’re out of a particular ingredient, don’t be afraid to get creative with substitutions. Just remember, substituting ingredients can sometimes affect the final texture and flavor of the cake.
Over/undercooking signs: Keep an eye on your cakes while they’re baking. If they’re undercooked, they might sink in the center or a toothpick won’t come out clean. Overcooked cakes will be dry and possibly cracked on top.

FAQs

Can I freeze it? Yes, you can freeze the cake. Wrap it tightly and place it in a freezer bag. Frozen cake can be thawed at room temperature or reheated in the microwave.
Is it gluten-free? The original recipe includes all-purpose flour, which contains gluten. However, you can make a gluten-free version by substituting the flour with a gluten-free flour mix.
Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can double the recipe to make a larger cake or more servings. Just remember to adjust the baking time accordingly, as larger cakes take longer to cook through.

Conclusion

With its rich, chocolatey flavor and sweet, fruity twist, the Chocolate Cake with Strawberry Jam Recipe is a dessert that’s sure to please any crowd. Whether you’re a fan of classic desserts or looking to try something new, this recipe offers a delicious and straightforward way to satisfy your sweet tooth. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors and ingredients to make the recipe your own, and enjoy the process of creating something special for yourself and those you care about.

Chocolate Strawberry Jam Simple Delicious Cake