01 -
Preheat oven to 175°C. Grease and line three 20 cm round cake pans with parchment paper.
02 -
Sift flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt into a large mixing bowl.
03 -
Add whole milk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract to the dry mixture and stir until just blended.
04 -
Gradually mix in boiling water until a smooth, thin batter forms.
05 -
Divide batter evenly among prepared pans and bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center emerges clean.
06 -
Let cakes cool in their pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
07 -
Combine strawberries and sugar in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir until berries release juices.
08 -
Mix cornstarch with water in a small bowl, then stir into the saucepan. Cook for 2–3 minutes until thickened. Remove from heat and cool completely.
09 -
Heat heavy cream in a small saucepan until simmering. Pour over chopped chocolate in a bowl. Let stand for 1–2 minutes, then stir until smooth. Cool slightly.
10 -
Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread half of the strawberry filling on top. Add the second cake layer and repeat with remaining filling.
11 -
Place the final cake layer on top. Pour ganache over the cake, allowing it to drip down the sides.
12 -
Garnish with fresh strawberries and chocolate shavings as desired for a refined finish.