chocolate strawberry whipped cream cake part 1 baked goods
Rachael Mccleese
Ingredients
- **High-Quality Chocolate Powder** - Perfect for adding rich flavor to the cake batter.
- **Strawberry Flavored Syrup** - Enhances the natural sweetness and fruity notes of strawberries.
- **Unsalted Butter** - Essential for a moist, tender crumb; use high-quality butter for better taste.
- **Granulated Sugar** - Provides sweetness and helps in browning during baking.
- **Egg Whites** - Separate from yolks to whip into stiff peaks, enhancing texture and lightness.
- **All-Purpose Flour** - A versatile flour that works well in various baked goods; ensure it's of good quality for best results.
- **Vanilla Extract** - Adds a subtle, pleasant flavor without overpowering the cake.
- **Heavy Cream** - Key ingredient for making whipped cream; ensures a smooth and creamy texture.
- **Fresh Strawberries** - For decorating or pureeing to add color and freshness.
- **Milk Chocolate Chips** - Great for melting and drizzling over the top of the cake or using in frosting.
- **Powdered Sugar** - Used in the whipped cream to achieve a fluffy consistency; also helpful for dusting on top.
- **Whipped Cream Stabilizer (Optional)** - Helps maintain airiness and prevent settling, ensuring your whipped cream stays light and creamy.
Using these ingredients will help you create an exquisite chocolate strawberry whipped cream cake that is both visually appealing and delicious. Make sure to use fresh ingredients for the best taste and texture!
Steps
### Detailed Steps to Make a Chocolate Strawberry Whipped Cream Cake
#### Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (sifted)
- 1 and 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 and 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 and 1/4 cups whole milk, divided into two parts
#### Equipment:
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or stand mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cooling rack
- Pastry bag (optional)
- Piping tip (optional)
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### Step-by-Step Guide:
1. **Preheat the Oven:**
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 8-inch round baking pans with cooking spray or butter, and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
2. **Mix Dry Ingredients:**
- In a large mixing bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, salt, and cocoa powder. This ensures even distribution of ingredients and prevents lumps in the batter.
3. **Combine Wet Ingredients:**
- In another bowl, whisk together sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, vanilla extract, and 1 cup of whole milk until well combined.
4. **Blend Wet and Dry Mixtures:**
- Slowly add the dry mixture to the wet mixture in three parts, alternating with the remaining milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients for a smoother batter. Mix just until incorporated; avoid overmixing as it can lead to a tougher cake.
5. **Pour Batter into Pans:**
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Smooth the tops gently with a spatula. Place in the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. **Cool Cakes:**
- Allow cakes to cool completely on cooling racks before frosting. This ensures they won't fall apart when handling.
7. **Prepare Strawberry Whipped Cream Frosting:**
- In a separate large bowl, whip the cream and powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
- Fold in fresh strawberries chopped into small pieces for added flavor and texture.
8. **Assemble the Cake:**
- Place one layer on your serving plate and spread a generous amount of strawberry whipped cream over it.
- Add another cake layer and top with remaining frosting. Smooth frosting with an offset spatula or piping bag if desired.
9. **Decorate (Optional):**
- Garnish with additional strawberries, chocolate shavings, or edible flowers for an elegant touch. Serve chilled and enjoy your delicious chocolate strawberry whipped cream cake!
### Tips:
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature to achieve the best texture.
- Use high-quality cocoa powder for richer flavor.
- For a smoother frosting, chill the bowl of your electric mixer before whipping the cream.
By following these steps, you can create a delightful and visually appealing chocolate strawberry whipped cream cake that is perfect for any occasion.