Lemon Chocolate Strawberry Cake

This delightful Lemon Chocolate Strawberry Cake combines the rich flavor of chocolate with the bright zest of lemons and the sweetness of strawberries. The cake is light and airy, perfect for a refreshing dessert that balances traditional baking techniques with a creative twist. It's a fantastic way to celebrate seasonal fruits while keeping it sweet and satisfying.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped
• Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and lemon zest.
4. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Mix until just combined.
6. Fold in the chopped strawberries gently into the batter.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
9. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Before serving, dust with powdered sugar for a touch of sweetness.