Chocolate Covered Strawberry Heart Cake
Why Make This Recipe
Chocolate Covered Strawberry Heart Cake is a delightful treat that combines the best of both worlds: the rich flavor of chocolate and the fresh sweetness of strawberries. This cake is perfect for special occasions like Valentine’s Day, anniversaries, or any celebration where you want to impress. It’s not just a dessert; it’s a heartfelt expression of love that pleases both the eyes and the taste buds.
How to Make Chocolate Covered Strawberry Heart Cake
Ingredients:
- 1 box strawberry cake mix, prepared according to package instructions
- 1 box chocolate cake mix, prepared according to package instructions (I used Duncan Hines Devil’s Food, 15.25 oz/432g)
- 1 cup bittersweet chocolate chips, melted (I used Ghiradelli 60% Cacao, 150g)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (114g)
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened (226g)
- 2-4 cups powdered sugar (240-480g), use 2 cups if you like less sweet or 4 cups if you like it more sweet
- 2 teaspoons strawberry extract
- 1 drop pink food coloring gel
- 2 tablespoons sprinkles
Directions:
- For the strawberry cake: Prepare the strawberry cake mix according to the package instructions. Once done, allow it to cool completely.
- For the chocolate cake: Similarly, prepare the chocolate cake mix according to the package directions. Let it cool as well.
- For the strawberry cake hearts: Use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut out heart shapes from the cooled strawberry cake. Set aside the hearts.
- For the frosting: In a bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar until you reach your desired sweetness. Add the strawberry extract and a drop of pink food coloring gel, mixing until well combined.
How to Serve Chocolate Covered Strawberry Heart Cake
To serve this beautiful cake, place the chocolate cake on a serving plate as your base. Decorate it with frosting, then stack the strawberry heart cakes on top. Finish off with drizzled melted chocolate and sprinkles for a colorful touch. This cake is sure to be a showstopper at any gathering!
How to Store Chocolate Covered Strawberry Heart Cake
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The cake will stay fresh for about 3-5 days. Just make sure to bring it back to room temperature before serving again for the best taste.
Tips to Make Chocolate Covered Strawberry Heart Cake
- Make sure both cakes are completely cooled before cutting and assembling to avoid any mess.
- You can adjust the sweetness of the frosting by adding more or less powdered sugar according to your preference.
- For a fun twist, add fresh sliced strawberries between the layers for extra flavor and decoration.
Variation
You can use different flavored cake mixes like vanilla or red velvet to create a unique version of this heart cake. Mixing in a layer of fresh fruit or using white chocolate instead of bittersweet chocolate can also give a fun twist!
FAQs
1. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the cakes a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator until you are ready to assemble.
2. Can I freeze the cake?
Absolutely! You can freeze the unassembled cake for up to three months. Just wrap it well to prevent freezer burn.
3. What can I use instead of strawberries?
You can easily substitute strawberries with blueberries or raspberries for a different flavor profile while maintaining that fruity sweetness!
Chocolate Covered Strawberry Heart Cake
Ingredients
Cakes
- 1 box strawberry cake mix, prepared according to package instructions
- 1 box chocolate cake mix, prepared according to package instructions (Duncan Hines Devil’s Food) 15.25 oz/432g
Frosting
- 1 cup bittersweet chocolate chips, melted Ghiradelli 60% Cacao, 150g
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened 114g
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened 226g
- 2-4 cups powdered sugar Use 2 cups if you like less sweet or 4 cups if you like it more sweet (240-480g)
- 2 teaspoons strawberry extract
- 1 drop pink food coloring gel
- 2 tablespoons sprinkles
Instructions
Prepare the Cakes
- Prepare the strawberry cake mix according to the package instructions. Allow it to cool completely.
- Prepare the chocolate cake mix according to the package directions. Let it cool as well.
Cut and Prepare Hearts
- Use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut out heart shapes from the cooled strawberry cake. Set aside the hearts.
Make the Frosting
- In a bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until smooth.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar until you reach your desired sweetness.
- Add the strawberry extract and a drop of pink food coloring gel, mixing until well combined.
Assemble the Cake
- Place the chocolate cake on a serving plate as your base.
- Decorate it with frosting, then stack the strawberry heart cakes on top.
- Finish off with drizzled melted chocolate and sprinkles for a colorful touch.
