Moist, rich, and topped with juicy strawberries — the ultimate warm-weather chocolate indulgence!

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🧾 Ingredients

Chocolate Cake

• 1¾ cups all-purpose flour

• ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder

• 2 tsp baking powder

• 1½ tsp baking soda

• ½ tsp salt

• 1½ cups granulated sugar

• 2 large eggs

• ½ cup vegetable oil

• 1 cup buttermilk

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 1 cup hot water or strong coffee (adds depth)

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Chocolate Ganache

• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips or chopped chocolate

• ½ cup heavy cream

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Toppings

• Fresh strawberries, washed and hulled 🍓

• Chocolate shavings or chunks (optional) 🍫

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👩‍🍳 Instructions

1️⃣ Prep the Pans

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

• Grease and line two 8-inch round or square cake pans.

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2️⃣ Make the Cake Batter

• In a large bowl, whisk together:
  Flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar.

• Add eggs, oil, buttermilk, and vanilla. Beat until smooth.

• Slowly add hot water or coffee. Batter will be thin — that’s good!

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3️⃣ Bake

• Divide batter evenly between pans.

• Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

• Cool completely before assembling.

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4️⃣ Prepare Ganache

• Heat cream until steaming (do not boil).

• Pour over chocolate chips. Let sit 2 minutes.

• Stir gently until smooth and glossy.

• Let cool slightly so it thickens but stays pourable.

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5️⃣ Assemble the Cake

• Place the first cake layer on a serving plate.

• Spread a layer of ganache on top.

• Add the second layer, then pour ganache over the top, letting it drip slightly down the sides.

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6️⃣ Garnish & Chill

• Top with fresh strawberries and chocolate shavings/chunks.

• Chill briefly to set the ganache.

• Slice and serve!

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🍓 Tips for a Summer Touch

• Use strawberries at peak ripeness for the best flavor.

• Add whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side.

• Garnish with mint for a fresh finish.