Name: Chocolate Strawberry Cream Cake Bars
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 1 h 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup milk; 1 cup fresh strawberries, finely chopped; 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for strawberries); 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (for ganache); 1/2 cup heavy cream (for ganache)

Jump to Recipe

These elegant layered chocolate strawberry cream cake bars feature rich chocolate sponge cake, a velvety vanilla cream filling, fresh strawberries, and a glossy chocolate ganache topping. Finished with a whole strawberry and chocolate truffle garnish, these bars are as luxurious as they are delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Visually striking, perfect for special occasions or gatherings
A decadent combination of chocolate, fresh fruit, and creamy vanilla
Individually portioned for easy serving
Can be made ahead and stored for convenience
Customizable with different fruits, flavors, or toppings

Ingredients

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

All-purpose flour
Unsweetened cocoa powder
Granulated sugar
Baking powder
Salt
Eggs
Whole milk
Butter (melted)
Vanilla extract
Heavy cream or whipping cream
Cream cheese or mascarpone (optional, for added richness)
Powdered sugar
Fresh strawberries
Dark chocolate (for ganache)
Heavy cream (for ganache)
Chocolate truffles (for garnish, optional)

Directions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
Make the chocolate sponge cake: whisk flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, beat eggs and sugar until fluffy. Add milk, melted butter, and vanilla. Combine with dry ingredients.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let cool completely, then cut into even squares.
Prepare the cream filling: whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until stiff peaks form. For a richer filling, blend in softened cream cheese or mascarpone.
Slice fresh strawberries and pat them dry.
Assemble the bars: layer one piece of chocolate cake, a layer of cream, sliced strawberries, another cake layer, and another layer of cream.
Prepare ganache by heating heavy cream and pouring it over chopped dark chocolate. Let sit, then stir until smooth. Pour over the top cake layer.
Chill the bars in the refrigerator until set.
Garnish with a whole strawberry and a chocolate truffle just before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 8–10 bars
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Cooling & Assembly Time: 60–90 minutes
Total Time: 2–2.5 hours

Variations

Use raspberries or blueberries instead of strawberries
Add a layer of strawberry jam for added fruit flavor
Replace vanilla cream with chocolate mousse or flavored whipped cream
Make a gluten-free version using gluten-free flour blend
Use white chocolate ganache for a contrast in color and flavor

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze individual un-garnished bars for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Reheating: Not recommended due to the cream layers—these are best served chilled or at room temperature.

FAQs

How do I keep the layers from sliding?

Chilling the bars between layers helps the cream firm up and hold everything together.

Can I make this dessert a day ahead?

Yes, it actually holds its shape better after resting in the refrigerator overnight.

What type of chocolate is best for the ganache?

Use high-quality dark chocolate (60–70% cocoa) for a rich and smooth topping.

Can I use boxed cake mix instead of homemade sponge?

Yes, a chocolate cake mix will work, but homemade yields better texture and flavor.

Do I need a piping bag for the cream?

No, you can spread the cream with a spatula, but a piping bag creates cleaner layers.

Should I sweeten the cream filling?

Yes, add powdered sugar to taste when whipping the cream.

Can I omit the truffle on top?

Absolutely. The truffle is optional and mainly decorative.

How do I get clean slices?

Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water, then wiped clean between cuts.

What’s the best pan size for baking the cake?

A 9×13-inch rectangular pan works well to yield thin, even cake layers.

Are these bars suitable for outdoor events?

Yes, but keep them chilled as long as possible, especially if it’s warm.

Conclusion

Chocolate strawberry cream cake bars are an elegant, layered dessert that brings together rich chocolate, smooth cream, and fresh fruit in one show-stopping bite. Perfect for impressing guests or celebrating special occasions, they combine beauty and indulgence in every forkful.