Prepare the Cake:
1️⃣ Preheat the Oven:
• Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2️⃣ Mix Wet Ingredients:
• In a large bowl, beat together sugar, eggs, and vanilla until fluffy. Stir in milk and vegetable oil until smooth.
3️⃣ Combine Dry Ingredients:
• In another bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture.
4️⃣ Add Boiling Water:
• Carefully stir in boiling water. The batter will be thin—don’t worry; it ensures a moist cake!
5️⃣ Bake:
• Divide the batter evenly between the pans and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely before removing from pans.

Make the Strawberry Filling:
1️⃣ Cook the Filling:
• In a medium saucepan, combine strawberries, sugar, lemon juice, cornstarch, and water.
• Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens (about 5-10 minutes). Let cool completely.

Assemble the Cake:
1️⃣ Layer the Cake:
• If needed, level the cake layers with a serrated knife. Spread the cooled strawberry filling over the first cake layer, then carefully place the second layer on top.

Prepare the Frosting:
1️⃣ Beat the Butter:
• In a mixing bowl, beat softened butter until light and creamy.
2️⃣ Add Dry Ingredients:
• Gradually add powdered sugar and cocoa powder, mixing well after each addition.
3️⃣ Finish with Cream and Vanilla:
• Beat in heavy cream and vanilla extract until the frosting is smooth and fluffy.

Frost and Garnish:
1️⃣ Frost the Cake:
• Spread the frosting over the top and sides of the cake.
2️⃣ Add Final Touches:
• Garnish with fresh strawberries or chocolate shavings for a polished look.