Description
These Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Mini Cakes are the perfect treat for special occasions or when you want to impress. They feature moist chocolate cake layers, a sweet strawberry filling, and a rich chocolate ganache coating—just like a chocolate-covered strawberry but with a delicious cake twist!
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Chocolate Mini Cakes:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup hot water
For the Strawberry Filling:
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
For the Chocolate Ganache Coating:
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter (for shine)
Instructions
- Make the Chocolate Mini Cakes:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a mini cake pan or line with cupcake liners.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Add the eggs, buttermilk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
- Slowly stir in the hot water until fully combined (the batter will be thin).
- Pour the batter into the mini cake molds, filling each about 2/3 full.
- Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool completely on a wire rack.
- Prepare the Strawberry Filling:
- In a small saucepan, combine the chopped strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice.
- Cook over medium heat until the strawberries break down and the mixture thickens (about 5–7 minutes).
- If needed, add cornstarch to thicken. Remove from heat and cool completely.
- Assemble the Mini Cakes:
- Once the cakes are cool, slice them in half horizontally.
- Spread a layer of strawberry filling on the bottom half, then place the top half back on.
- Make the Chocolate Ganache:
- Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan until just simmering.
- Pour the hot cream over the chocolate chips and let sit for 2 minutes.
- Stir until smooth and glossy, then mix in the butter.
- Coat the Mini Cakes:
- Place the filled mini cakes on a wire rack with parchment paper underneath.
- Pour the ganache over each cake, letting it drip down the sides for full coverage.
- Let the ganache set slightly before serving.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a splash of strawberry liqueur to the filling.
- Garnish with fresh strawberries or a dusting of powdered sugar for a decorative touch.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.