Rich, decadent, and bursting with fresh berry flavor — this cake is a showstopper for any celebration!

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🛒 Ingredients

For the Chocolate Cake:

• 1¾ cups all-purpose flour

• ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder

• 2 cups granulated sugar

• 1½ tsp baking powder

• 1½ tsp baking soda

• 1 tsp salt

• 2 large eggs

• 1 cup whole milk

• ½ cup vegetable oil

• 2 tsp vanilla extract

• 1 cup hot coffee (or hot water for a milder taste)

For the Fudge Frosting:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter

• ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder

• 3½ cups powdered sugar

• ½ cup heavy cream (plus more as needed)

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• Pinch of salt

For the Strawberry Layer:

• 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced

• 1 tbsp sugar (optional, to sweeten and juice the berries)

• Extra whole or halved strawberries for garnish

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👩‍🍳 Instructions

1️⃣ Bake the Chocolate Cake:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.

2. In a large mixing bowl, sift together flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

3. Add in eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.

4. Slowly pour in the hot coffee, stirring until fully combined. (The batter will be thin.)

5. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.

6. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

7. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.

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2️⃣ Make the Chocolate Fudge Frosting:

1. Melt butter in a saucepan or microwave-safe bowl.

2. Stir in the cocoa powder until smooth and glossy.

3. Alternately beat in powdered sugar and cream until light and fluffy.

4. Mix in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.

5. Adjust the consistency with more cream if needed.

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3️⃣ Prepare the Strawberries:

1. Toss the sliced strawberries with 1 tbsp sugar (optional) and let sit for 10–15 minutes to release juices.

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🍰 Assemble the Cake:

1. Place one cooled cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand.

2. Spread a generous layer of fudge frosting over the top.

3. Spoon the sliced strawberries evenly over the frosting.

4. Add the second cake layer and frost the top and sides with the remaining fudge frosting.

5. Garnish with whole or halved strawberries on top.

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✨ Optional Add-Ons:

• Add a layer of whipped cream or chocolate ganache between the layers

• Drizzle melted chocolate over the top for a glossy finish

• Decorate with chocolate-dipped strawberries for an elegant touch

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🕒 Storage Tips:

• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days

• Bring to room temperature before serving for best texture

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Enjoy every moist, fudgy, berry-filled bite! 🍓🍫 Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any day that needs something special.