Layer Cake with Chocolate, Mascarpone, and Strawberries

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup cocoa powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 2 eggs
• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 cup mascarpone cheese, at room temperature
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
• 1/2 cup bittersweet chocolate chips, melted

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, eggs, and milk until smooth.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until the batter is smooth and well-combined.
5. Divide the batter evenly between the three prepared cake pans.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
7. Cool the cakes in their pans for 10 minutes before removing them from the pans and cooling them completely on a wire rack.
8. In a mixing bowl, beat the mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
9. Place one cooled cake layer on a serving platter. Spread a layer of mascarpone cream over the top of the cake, and sprinkle with chopped strawberries.
10. Add the second cake layer, and repeat the process with another layer of mascarpone cream and strawberries.
11. Add the third cake layer, and spread the melted bittersweet chocolate chips over the top of the cake.
12. Refrigerate the cake for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Verdict:

This layer cake is the perfect gourmet dessert for any occasion! The combination of rich bittersweet chocolate, creamy mascarpone, and fresh strawberries is a show-stopper. The cake layers themselves are moist and tender, and the addition of the mascarpone cream and fresh berries takes this dessert over the top. Your guests will be begging for the recipe!

Serving Suggestions:

Slice into elegant wedges and serve chilled with a sprinkling of chopped strawberries on top for an extra burst of flavor. This cake pairs perfectly with a cup of strong coffee or tea.