Step 1: Bake the Cake

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Add the milk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth. Slowly stir in the boiling water (the batter will be thin).
4. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool completely.

Step 2: Prepare the Strawberry Filling

1. In a small saucepan, combine the chopped strawberries and sugar. Cook over medium heat until the strawberries release their juices (about 5 minutes).
2. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and water until smooth. Add this mixture to the strawberries and cook for another 2–3 minutes until thickened. Let the filling cool completely.

Step 3: Make the Frosting

1. In a large bowl, beat the butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and cocoa powder, alternating with the heavy cream.
2. Beat until smooth and fluffy. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

1. Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of strawberry filling over the top.
2. Place the second cake layer on top and frost the entire cake with the chocolate frosting.
3. Garnish with fresh strawberries if desired.