Mastering Chocolate Strawberry Cake: How-To

• Step 1: Prepare the Chocolate Cake Batter - Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease and flour an 8-inch round baking pan. In a saucepan, melt the 150g of dark chocolate and 150g of butter over low heat, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
• Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients - In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, heavy whipping cream, milk, and vanilla extract until well combined. Slowly add the cooled chocolate mixture, stirring until smooth and unified.
• Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients - In another bowl, mix together the flour, cocoa powder, cinnamon, and salt. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula, being careful not to overmix.
• Step 4: Bake the Cake - Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a cooling rack to cool completely.
• Step 5: Make the Strawberry Syrup - In a saucepan, combine the 100ml of water and 50g of sugar. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer until the sugar dissolves. Add the hulled strawberries and simmer for 5-7 minutes until soft. Remove from heat and let cool. Strain the mixture to separate the strawberries from the syrup, reserving both.
• Step 6: Prepare the Ganache - For the ganache, heat 150g of dark chocolate and 25g of butter in a saucepan over low heat until melted and smooth. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
• Step 7: Whip the Cream - In a mixing bowl, whip the 300ml of cream until soft peaks form. Gently fold in the cooled chocolate ganache until well combined.
• Step 8: Assemble the Cake - Once the cake has cooled, slice it in half horizontally. Place one layer on a serving platter and brush with the reserved strawberry syrup. Spread half of the whipped cream mixture over the first layer and top with some of the cooked strawberries. Place the second cake layer on top and repeat the process, brushing with syrup, adding whipped cream, and topping with strawberries.
• Step 9: Finish with Whipped Cream - Spread the remaining whipped cream on the top and sides of the cake for a smooth finish. Decorate with any leftover strawberries on top for a stunning presentation. Refrigerate for at least an hour before serving, allowing the flavors to meld.