If you are looking to create a show-stopping dessert that bursts with flavor and charm, this Strawberry Chocolate Cake with Strawberry Jam and Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is an absolute must-try. It’s a beautifully moist chocolate cake layered with luscious homemade strawberry jam that brings a fresh, fruity punch. Topped off with a silky, tangy cream cheese frosting and crowned with bright, fresh strawberries, this cake is both comforting and elegant—perfect for celebrations or when you simply want to treat yourself to something truly special.

Strawberry Chocolate Cake with Strawberry Jam and Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe relies on simple, everyday ingredients that come together to create a symphony of tastes and textures. Each component plays an essential role—from the rich cocoa powder that deepens the cake’s flavor to the fresh strawberries that add natural sweetness and brightness, making the whole cake sing.

Fresh or frozen strawberries: Used both for making the homemade jam and as a fresh topping, they bring juicy fruity delight and natural sweetness.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the jam and cake batter perfectly without overpowering the strawberry flavor.
Water: Helps cook the strawberries down into a smooth, spreadable jam.
All-purpose flour: Provides structure and a tender crumb for the cake layers.
Cocoa powder: Adds deep chocolate richness that contrasts beautifully with the strawberry brightness.
Baking powder and baking soda: Work together to give the cake just the right rise and light texture.
Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
Unsalted butter (melted): Combines with oil to keep the cake moist and add richness.
Oil: Adds extra moisture to the cake, ensuring each bite is soft and tender.
Brown sugar: Brings a deeper sweetness with subtle caramel notes.
Large eggs: Bind everything together and contribute to the cake’s structure.
Milk: Keeps the batter smooth and adds moisture.
Cream cheese: The star ingredient in the frosting, it lends creaminess and tang.
Powdered sugar: Sweeter and smoother for frosting than granulated sugar.
Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the cream cheese frosting.
Fresh strawberries: For decoration and an extra fresh burst of flavor on top.

How to Make Strawberry Chocolate Cake with Strawberry Jam and Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Make the Strawberry Jam

Start by combining fresh or frozen strawberries with granulated sugar and a little water in a small pot. Cooking this mixture over medium-high heat while stirring frequently will transform it into a luscious jam. Keep an eye on it until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon—that’s your homemade strawberry jam ready to add that incredible fresh fruit flavor between your cake layers. Let it cool completely before assembling.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven and Prepare Pans

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, grease and line two 6-inch round cake pans with parchment paper. This ensures your beautiful cake layers come out perfectly without sticking, preserving their moist texture and smooth surface for frosting.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This dry mix is crucial for balancing the chocolate intensity and ensuring your cake rises evenly with a tender crumb that melts in your mouth.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, beat together the melted butter, oil, brown sugar, eggs, and milk until smooth and combined. This blend of fats and sugars creates the cake’s moistness and sweet depth, while eggs stabilize and bind everything together.

Step 5: Make the Batter and Bake

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined—be careful not to overmix to keep the cake light. Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared pans and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. Test doneness with a toothpick inserted into the center; it should come out clean. Allow the cakes to cool completely before moving to assembly.

Step 6: Assemble with Strawberry Jam

Once the cake layers are fully cooled, spread a generous layer of your homemade strawberry jam onto one layer. This not only infuses the cake with natural fruit sweetness but also adds a moist, tangy surprise with every bite.

Step 7: Prepare and Add Cream Cheese Frosting

Whip together softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and fluffy. Spread this creamy frosting generously over the top cake layer and around the sides if you like. The tangy cream cheese perfectly complements the sweet jam and rich chocolate cake creating the perfect balance.

Step 8: Decorate with Fresh Strawberries

Finish off this masterpiece by garnishing with fresh strawberries on top. Their bright color and juicy texture add an extra layer of freshness, visual appeal, and fruity zest to delight the palate.

How to Serve Strawberry Chocolate Cake with Strawberry Jam and Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh strawberries are the ideal finishing touch, but you could also sprinkle shaved chocolate or a dusting of cocoa powder to make it look even more stunning. A few mint leaves can add a pop of color and a refreshing aroma that complements the berry and chocolate combination beautifully.

Side Dishes

This cake shines as a centerpiece, but consider serving with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for added indulgence. Fresh berries or a light fruit salad can also provide a refreshing counterpoint, balancing richness with natural sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive touch, slice the cake into neat tiers and serve with plated swirls of strawberry sauce or balsamic glaze. You could also create mini versions of this cake in cupcake form using the same layers and frosting for a delightful party treat everyone will love. Presentation really brings this Strawberry Chocolate Cake with Strawberry Jam and Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe to life, so have fun with it!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The cream cheese frosting requires refrigeration, and storing the cake chilled helps maintain its moisture and prevents the frosting from melting. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days.

Freezing

You can freeze individual cake layers before assembling or freeze the whole cake after frosting if wrapped tightly. Freeze layers separately in plastic wrap and foil for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before assembly or serving to preserve texture and flavor in this Strawberry Chocolate Cake with Strawberry Jam and Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe.

Reheating

This cake is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, so reheating is not usually necessary. If you prefer a warmer slice, remove it from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it can soften the frosting undesirably.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought strawberry jam instead of homemade?

Absolutely! While homemade jam adds a fresh, natural flavor, good-quality store-bought strawberry jam works perfectly too. Just choose one with minimal added sugars and no preservatives for the best taste.

Can I substitute cream cheese frosting with buttercream?

You can, but cream cheese frosting offers a subtle tang that balances the sweetness and richness in this cake. Buttercream tends to be sweeter and might overpower the strawberry jam’s brightness.

Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking. Be sure to check that the blend includes xanthan gum or another binding agent for best results.

How do I know when the cake is fully baked?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the cakes. If it comes out clean or with only a few moist crumbs, the cake is done. Avoid overbaking to keep it moist.

Can this cake be made ahead for a party?

Definitely! You can bake the layers and even prepare the strawberry jam a day or two in advance. Assemble and frost on the day of the event for the freshest results. This makes the Strawberry Chocolate Cake with Strawberry Jam and Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe a great option for celebrations.

Final Thoughts

This Strawberry Chocolate Cake with Strawberry Jam and Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is truly a crowd-pleaser—rich yet fresh, indulgent but balanced. Baking it feels like a gift to yourself and everyone who gets to share in the deliciousness. I promise once you try this cake, it will become a new favorite go-to for special occasions or when you want a little sweet joy in your day. So go ahead, dive in, and savor every fabulous bite!