Chocolate Covered Strawberry Ice Cream Cake with Ganache
This impressive frozen dessert combines layers of moist chocolate cake with creamy strawberry ice cream, all covered in a rich chocolate ganache that mimics the classic chocolate-covered strawberry flavor. Perfect for special occasions, birthdays, or summer entertaining when you want to wow guests with something that looks bakery-made but comes together with simple techniques. The contrast between the warm chocolate cake layers and cool strawberry ice cream creates an irresistible texture combination, while the glossy ganache coating adds an elegant finishing touch that drips down the sides beautifully.
Ingredients
Instructions
- 1
Preheat oven to 350 degrees and grease two round cake pans
- 2
Beat cake mix, oil, eggs and water with electric mixer until smooth
- 3
Stir in mini chocolate chips and divide batter between prepared pans
- 4
Bake for 17-20 minutes until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean
- 5
Cool completely
- 6
Place one cake layer in bottom of springform pan
- 7
Spread softened ice cream over cake layer and top with second layer
- 8
Freeze for at least 2 hours until ice cream is set
- 9
Bring cream to just boiling in small saucepan
- 10
Remove from heat and whisk in chocolate until melted and shiny
- 11
Set aside until ganache is cool but still pourable
- 12
Pour ganache over cake, spreading to edges so it runs over sides
- 13
Return to freezer until ready to serve
- 14
Let stand 10 minutes before slicing and serving
Tips
Use the same size cake pans and springform pan for best fit and even layers.
Let the ganache cool to the right consistency - it should coat the back of a spoon but still pour smoothly.
Run a warm knife under hot water between cuts for clean slices through the frozen layers.
Good to Know
Keep frozen for up to 1 week, well wrapped
Can be made 2-3 days ahead through ganache step
Let stand 10 minutes at room temperature before slicing
Common Mistakes
Don't skip cooling the cake completely or the ice cream will melt
Don't pour hot ganache directly on cake or it will melt the ice cream layer
Substitutions
Dairy-Free Swaps
General Alternatives
FAQ
Can I use homemade cake instead of mix?
Yes, use any chocolate cake recipe that makes two 8-9 inch layers. Just ensure the cakes are completely cooled before assembly.
What if my ganache is too thick to pour?
Gently rewarm the ganache over low heat or in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, stirring until it reaches the right consistency.
How long will this keep frozen?
The cake will stay fresh in the freezer for up to one week when well wrapped in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container.