Step 1

Heat oven to 350°F. Grease and flour two 9-inch round baking pans. Set aside.

Step 2

In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment or in a large bowl with an electric mixer, combine the sugar, flour, cocoa(s), baking soda, baking powder and salt. Mix on low until dry ingredients are thoroughly combined.

Step 3

Add eggs, buttermilk, coffee, oil and vanilla. Beat on medium speed for about two minutes; the batter will be thin.

Step 4

Pour batter evenly into prepared pans.

Step 5

Bake in preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes or until wooden toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.

Step 6

Cool 10 minutes; remove from pans to wire racks. Cool completely.

Step 7

Place one of the cake layers on a cake plate or cardboard round. Top with about ⅓ of the strawberry frosting. Top with the sliced strawberries.

Step 8

Add the second cake layer. Frost with the remaining strawberry frosting. Top with the ganache. Decorate as desired with additional strawberries – try dipping whole strawberries into some of the ganache for an extra-special decoration.

Step 9

Store in the refrigerator until ready to serve. Let come to room temperature before cutting.