Decadent layers of moist chocolate cake, fluffy whipped cream, and fresh strawberries stacked into elegant shortcake towers. Drizzled with rich chocolate ganache and topped with whole strawberries, this dessert is a stunning twist on the classic shortcake.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Chocolate Strawberry Shortcake Towers combine the richness of chocolate cake with the freshness of strawberries and the lightness of whipped cream for a dessert that is both indulgent and refreshing. Perfect for individual servings, these towers are visually impressive and ideal for entertaining. The layered presentation adds a modern touch to a nostalgic favorite, making them suitable for romantic dinners, celebrations, or festive gatherings.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Chocolate Cake Layers:

• all-purpose flour

• granulated sugar

• unsweetened cocoa powder

• baking soda

• baking powder

• salt

• egg

• buttermilk

• vegetable oil

• hot water

• vanilla extract

For the Whipped Cream:

• heavy whipping cream

• powdered sugar

• vanilla extract

For Assembly:

• fresh strawberries, sliced

• whole strawberries, for topping

• chocolate ganache (melted chocolate and cream)

Directions

Bake the chocolate cake:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two 9-inch round cake pans, or bake in a sheet pan if you plan to cut rounds.

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

3. Add the egg, buttermilk, oil, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.

4. Slowly stir in the hot water until the batter is smooth and thin.

5. Divide the batter into the prepared pans and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

6. Let the cakes cool completely before cutting.

Whip the cream:

1. In a mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.

2. Keep the whipped cream chilled until ready to assemble.

Assemble the towers:

1. Use a round cutter to cut cake rounds from the baked layers, if needed.

2. Place one round of cake as the base, then add a generous dollop of whipped cream and a layer of sliced strawberries.

3. Top with another round of cake and a swirl of whipped cream.

4. Drizzle chocolate ganache over the top and finish with a whole strawberry.

5. Serve immediately or chill until ready to serve.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6–8 towers
Prep time: 30 minutes
Bake time: 30 minutes
Assembly time: 15 minutes
Total time: Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

• Mini layer cakes: Make three-tiered mini cakes using smaller cutters for a bite-sized version.

• Chocolate mousse filling: Replace whipped cream with chocolate mousse for a richer dessert.

• Berry mix: Combine strawberries with blueberries or raspberries for more variety.

• Nut crunch: Add chopped hazelnuts or almonds between layers for texture.

• Gluten-free: Use a gluten-free chocolate cake recipe or mix to suit dietary needs.

storage/reheating

These towers are best served fresh, but they can be assembled a few hours ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Cover them lightly with plastic wrap to prevent drying. They should be consumed within 24 hours for the best taste and texture. Reheating is not recommended, as it would melt the whipped cream and ganache.

FAQs

Can I make the cake in advance?

Yes, you can bake the cake layers a day ahead. Store them wrapped tightly at room temperature or in the refrigerator.

What kind of chocolate is best for ganache?

Use semi-sweet or dark chocolate for a balanced flavor that complements the strawberries and whipped cream.

Can I assemble these in a glass or jar instead of stacking?

Absolutely. Layer the components in jars or glasses for a parfait-style presentation that travels well.

How do I keep the whipped cream from deflating?

Use cold equipment and don’t overwhip. You may also stabilize the whipped cream with a small amount of cornstarch or gelatin.

Can I use store-bought cake?

Yes, a good quality store-bought chocolate cake can be used to save time.

Can I freeze the components?

The cake layers can be frozen, but avoid freezing the whipped cream and strawberries, as their texture may be compromised.

How long do leftovers last?

Leftovers should be stored in the refrigerator and consumed within 24 hours for optimal freshness.

Is there a dairy-free version?

Use dairy-free cream alternatives and plant-based chocolate for a vegan or dairy-free version.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour.

What’s the best way to cut the cake into rounds?

Use a sharp round cutter and clean it between cuts for neat edges.

Conclusion

Chocolate Strawberry Shortcake Towers are an elegant and delicious dessert perfect for special occasions or when you want to impress your guests. With layers of moist chocolate cake, airy whipped cream, and fresh berries, each bite is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. Easy to customize and stunning to serve, these towers are a modern classic that never fails to delight.