Raspberry Swirl Chocolate Cake

Name: Raspberry Swirl Chocolate Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour; ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 2 cups granulated sugar; 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder; 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 large eggs; 1 cup whole milk; ½ cup vegetable oil; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 cup boiling water; 1 cup fresh raspberries; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 3 ½ cups powdered sugar; ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2-4 tablespoons heavy cream

Highlighted under: Sweet Bakes

Indulge in the rich and decadent Raspberry Swirl Chocolate Cake, a delightful combination of flavors that will satisfy any sweet tooth.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-03T00:14:29.676Z

This Raspberry Swirl Chocolate Cake combines the richness of chocolate with the tartness of fresh raspberries, creating a dessert that is both visually stunning and delicious.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh raspberry swirls
Moist and fluffy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence

      

The Perfect Dessert for Any Occasion

Raspberry Swirl Chocolate Cake is more than just a dessert; it's an experience that brings joy to any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a birthday party, celebrating an anniversary, or simply enjoying a cozy night in, this cake is sure to impress. Its beautiful presentation with swirls of fresh raspberries not only delights the eyes but also excites the palate with its unique flavor combination.

The contrast of rich chocolate and tart raspberries creates a harmonious balance that appeals to both chocolate lovers and fruit enthusiasts alike. This cake is versatile enough to be served as a centerpiece for special occasions or enjoyed as a sweet treat during everyday meals.

Tips for Baking Success

To ensure your Raspberry Swirl Chocolate Cake turns out perfectly, it’s essential to measure your ingredients accurately. Use a kitchen scale if possible, especially for flour and cocoa powder. This will help maintain the right balance of dry to wet ingredients, resulting in a moist and fluffy cake.

Additionally, make sure to incorporate the boiling water slowly to avoid splashing and to ensure an even batter consistency. Folding in the raspberries gently is crucial as well; this will keep them intact and allow for beautiful swirls in the finished cake. Remember, patience is key in baking, so take your time with each step!

Serving Suggestions

Once your Raspberry Swirl Chocolate Cake is frosted and ready to serve, consider garnishing it with a few fresh raspberries and a sprinkle of cocoa powder for an elegant touch. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds an extra burst of flavor that complements the cake beautifully.

Pairing the cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream elevates the dessert experience even further. The creaminess of the ice cream or whipped cream pairs wonderfully with the rich chocolate and tangy raspberries, making each bite a delightful treat.

Ingredients

Cake Ingredients

1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
2 cups granulated sugar
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
2 large eggs
1 cup whole milk
½ cup vegetable oil
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup boiling water
1 cup fresh raspberries

Frosting Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
3 ½ cups powdered sugar
½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2-4 tablespoons heavy cream

Instructions

Prepare the Oven and Pans

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.

Mix Dry Ingredients

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

Combine Wet Ingredients

Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla to the dry ingredients. Mix until well combined.

Add Boiling Water

Carefully stir in boiling water to the batter until smooth. The batter will be thin.

Create Raspberry Swirl

Gently fold in fresh raspberries, being careful not to break them up too much.

Bake the Cakes

Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans and bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Cool and Frost

Allow cakes to cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely. Frost with chocolate frosting once cooled.

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover Raspberry Swirl Chocolate Cake, storing it properly is key to maintaining its freshness. Place the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you need to keep it longer, refrigerate it, but be aware that refrigeration can sometimes alter the texture.

For longer storage, consider freezing individual slices. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can enjoy a piece of this delicious cake whenever your sweet tooth strikes!

Variations to Try

While the Raspberry Swirl Chocolate Cake is a delight on its own, you can experiment with different fruit swirls or flavors. Try substituting raspberries with strawberries, cherries, or blueberries for a unique twist. Each fruit will impart its own flavor profile, making the cake a versatile favorite.

You can also experiment with the frosting. A cream cheese frosting or a light whipped ganache could add a different dimension to the cake. If you're feeling adventurous, consider adding a hint of orange zest to the batter for a refreshing citrus note that complements the chocolate and berries.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen raspberries instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen raspberries can be used, but make sure to thaw and drain them before adding to the batter.

→ How should I store the cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cakes a day in advance and frost them just before serving.

→ What can I substitute for eggs?

You can use unsweetened applesauce or a flaxseed meal as an egg substitute in this recipe.