Strawberry and chocolate cake

Strawberry and Chocolate Cake - A Delicious and Easy Recipe

Looking for a simple and quick recipe for a dessert that will impress? The strawberry and chocolate cake is the perfect choice! This sweet combination, with rich flavors, will bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones. Here’s how to make it step by step, learning about the ingredients, techniques, and little tricks that will help you achieve a perfect result every time.

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Servings: 8

A Brief Story

The cake has deep roots in culinary traditions, being made in various forms and with different ingredients around the world. With a moist texture and rich flavor, the cake has evolved over time, adapting to available ingredients and local preferences. This recipe combines the sweetness of strawberries with chocolate, creating a perfect synergy between fruit and cocoa.

Ingredients

- 3 eggs (at room temperature)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons yogurt
- 5 tablespoons oil (sunflower or canola oil is ideal)
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon heaping cocoa powder (for an intense chocolate flavor)
- 14 tablespoons flour (sifted)
- Fresh strawberries (about 250 g)
- 40 g white chocolate (or dark chocolate, depending on preference)
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 2 teaspoons vanilla (extract or vanilla sugar)

Necessary Utensils

- A large mixing bowl
- An electric mixer or whisk
- A silicone spatula
- A loaf pan (approximately 20x10 cm)
- Parchment paper
- A preheated oven

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the ingredients: Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature. This step is crucial for proper emulsification, which will lead to a fluffy cake. Take the eggs, yogurt, and milk out of the refrigerator about 30 minutes before starting.

2. Beat the eggs and sugar: In a large bowl, add the 3 eggs and sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat on medium-high speed for 4-5 minutes, until the mixture becomes frothy and forms a light cream. The sugar should dissolve completely at this stage.

3. Add the wet ingredients: To the egg mixture, add the yogurt, oil, milk, and vanilla. Mix on low speed until all ingredients are combined. It’s important not to overmix; we want a well-combined mixture, but not aerated.

4. Incorporate the dry ingredients: In another bowl, sift together the flour with the baking powder and cocoa. This step will ensure an even distribution of the leavening agent and prevent lumps. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet mixture, gently folding with a spatula until everything is well combined. Do not overmix; a few lumps are acceptable.

5. Prepare the loaf pan: Line the loaf pan with parchment paper, ensuring the sides are covered and the paper fits perfectly. This step will make it easier to remove the cake after baking.

6. Add the sliced strawberries and chocolate: Wash the strawberries, remove the stems, and dry them well with a paper towel. Slice them thinly. Chop the chocolate into small pieces. Pour half of the cake mixture into the pan, then layer the strawberry slices and chocolate. Cover with the remaining mixture.

7. Bake the cake: Place the pan in the preheated oven at 180°C (350°F). Bake for about 35-40 minutes. Check if it’s done using the toothpick test: insert a toothpick in the center of the cake; if it comes out clean, the cake is ready.

8. Cooling and serving: Once the cake is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is important to maintain the moist texture.

9. Decorating and serving: You can sprinkle a little cocoa powder or powdered sugar on top before serving for an elegant look. This cake is delicious both warm and cold.

Chef's Tip

For an extra flavor boost, you can add a bit of almond extract instead of vanilla. Also, try replacing the strawberries with other seasonal fruits like raspberries or blueberries. Experiment with different types of chocolate to create unique combinations!

Nutritional Benefits

This cake contains healthy ingredients, such as yogurt, which provides probiotics, and strawberries, rich in vitamin C and antioxidants. The added oil contributes to the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I replace the eggs with a vegan substitute?
Yes, you can use a mixture of flaxseed meal or mashed banana to replace the eggs.

2. What type of flour should I use?
Wheat flour is the most common, but you can experiment with whole wheat flour for a healthier cake.

3. How long does the cake last?
The cake keeps well in an airtight container for 3-4 days at room temperature or up to a week in the refrigerator.

Serving Suggestions

This strawberry and chocolate cake pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a cup of herbal tea. It’s also ideal for a brunch alongside freshly squeezed lemonade with mint.

Try this simple recipe and enjoy every bite! With each slice, you’ll bring a touch of joy to the lives of your loved ones. Bon appétit!