Coffee Chocolate Cake
This Coffee Chocolate Cake is an absolute delight! With its three layers of moist chocolate cake and velvety coffee buttercream, it’s perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or simply as a sweet treat to enjoy with your afternoon coffee. The unique combination of rich chocolate and robust coffee flavors truly elevates this dessert to a new level, making it a standout choice for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Incredible Flavor: The rich blend of chocolate and coffee creates a decadent taste that will satisfy any sweet tooth.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday party or a casual get-together, this cake is sure to impress guests.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can achieve great results.
- Versatile Frosting Options: You can adjust the coffee flavor in the buttercream according to your preference.
- Impressive Presentation: The three layers make this cake visually stunning, making it ideal for special events.
Tools and Preparation
To make this Coffee Chocolate Cake, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure success in the kitchen. Having the right equipment makes the baking process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer or hand mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
- Cake pans (two 9-inch round)
- Cooling rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer or hand mixer: Makes it easy to mix batter and achieve a smooth consistency without exerting too much effort.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient measurements, which is key for successful baking.
- Cooling rack: Allows the cakes to cool evenly, preventing sogginess on the bottom.
Ingredients
This is the best Coffee Chocolate Cake ever! Three layers of incredibly moist chocolate cake sandwiched together with smooth coffee buttercream that will send you straight to dessert paradise.
For the Cake
- 360 g black coffee (for instant coffee use 2 teaspoons of instant coffee)
- 360 g all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 300 g granulated sugar
- 150 g dark brown sugar
- 75 g unsweetened Dutch cocoa powder
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1 1/2 tsp salt
- 165 g vegetable oil
- 270 g sour cream (14-18%, room temperature)
- 3 large eggs (room temperature)
- 3 tsp vanilla extract
For the Buttercream
- 400 g butter (room temperature)
- 660 g powdered sugar
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2-2 1/2 tbsp black coffee (cooled down to room temperature)
- 1 tbsp instant espresso powder (optional, for more intense coffee flavor)
How to Make Coffee Chocolate Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the following dry ingredients:
1. All-purpose flour
2. Cornstarch
3. Granulated sugar
4. Dark brown sugar
5. Unsweetened Dutch cocoa powder
6. Baking powder
7. Baking soda
8. Salt
Make sure everything is well mixed.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, combine:
1. Black coffee
2. Vegetable oil
3. Sour cream
4. Eggs
5. Vanilla extract
Whisk until smooth and combined.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the wet mixture into your bowl of dry ingredients while mixing on low speed until fully combined. Avoid overmixing.
Step 5: Bake the Cakes
Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans. Bake in preheated oven for about 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Cool Cakes
Once baked, let them cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them onto a cooling rack to cool completely.
Step 7: Prepare Buttercream
While cakes are cooling, beat room temperature butter in your stand mixer until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar while mixing on low speed until combined. Add vanilla extract and cooled black coffee; mix until fluffy.
Step 8: Assemble Your Cake
Once cooled, layer one cake on a serving plate and spread buttercream on top. Place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides with remaining buttercream as desired.
Enjoy your delicious slice of Coffee Chocolate Cake!
How to Serve Coffee Chocolate Cake
Serving your Coffee Chocolate Cake can elevate the experience and delight your guests. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance the enjoyment of this decadent dessert.
Pair with Fresh Berries
- Strawberries: Their sweetness complements the rich chocolate flavor perfectly.
- Raspberries: The tartness balances the cake’s sweetness, providing a refreshing contrast.
Add a Scoop of Ice Cream
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that adds creaminess and enhances the flavors.
- Coffee Ice Cream: For coffee lovers, this option intensifies the cake’s coffee essence.
Drizzle with Chocolate Sauce
- Warm Chocolate Ganache: A silky sauce that adds an extra layer of indulgence.
- Caramel Sauce: Offers a sweet, buttery flavor that pairs beautifully with chocolate.
Serve with Whipped Cream
- Sweetened Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, it provides a delightful texture contrast.
- Flavored Whipped Cream: Try adding a hint of vanilla or coffee for extra depth.
How to Perfect Coffee Chocolate Cake
Perfecting your Coffee Chocolate Cake involves attention to detail. Follow these tips to ensure your cake turns out amazing every time.
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Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Bringing eggs and sour cream to room temperature helps create a smoother batter and evenly baked cake.
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Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon flour into the measuring cup instead of scooping it directly. This avoids packing, ensuring your cake remains light and fluffy.
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Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mix just until combined to prevent a dense texture. Overmixing can lead to tough cake layers.
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Check Your Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking temperatures for perfect results.
Best Side Dishes for Coffee Chocolate Cake
Pairing side dishes with your Coffee Chocolate Cake can enhance your dessert table. Here are some delicious options to consider.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the richness of the cake.
- Chocolate Covered Pretzels: The saltiness complements the sweetness while adding crunch.
- Espresso Martini: An adult beverage that accentuates the coffee flavor in the cake.
- Cheese Platter: Include sharp cheeses like aged cheddar; their tanginess contrasts well with sweet desserts.
- Nutty Granola Bars: A crunchy bite that pairs well with coffee flavors, great for those who want something less sweet.
- Chocolate Mousse: Rich and creamy, this dessert pairs nicely without overwhelming the palate.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making a Coffee Chocolate Cake can be delightful, but certain mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are common pitfalls to avoid.
- Boldly measuring ingredients: Accurate measurements are crucial. Use a kitchen scale for dry ingredients, especially flour and cocoa powder, to avoid dense cake.
- Ignoring room temperature: Ingredients like eggs and sour cream should be at room temperature for better mixing and texture. Take them out ahead of time.
- Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can result in a tough cake. Mix just until the dry ingredients are incorporated for a lighter texture.
- Not checking doneness: Rely on the toothpick test. Insert it into the center; if it comes out clean or with moist crumbs, the cake is ready. Don’t rely solely on time.
- Skipping cooling time: Allow cakes to cool completely before frosting. This prevents melting the buttercream and creating a messy finish.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Coffee Chocolate Cake in an airtight container.
- It will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Coffee Chocolate Cake
- To freeze, wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container.
- The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Coffee Chocolate Cake
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices for 15-20 seconds for a quick warm-up.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat, covering it with a lid for even warming.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about making Coffee Chocolate Cake.
What makes Coffee Chocolate Cake so special?
The combination of rich chocolate and robust coffee creates a unique flavor profile that appeals to chocolate lovers and coffee enthusiasts alike.
Can I use decaf coffee instead?
Yes, you can substitute decaf coffee if you prefer to reduce caffeine while still enjoying that wonderful coffee flavor in your cake.
How can I customize my Coffee Chocolate Cake?
You can add nuts, chocolate chips, or even different extracts like almond or hazelnut for added flavor dimensions.
Is this recipe suitable for special occasions?
Absolutely! The layers and rich flavor make it perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or any celebration where dessert is required.
Final Thoughts
This Coffee Chocolate Cake is not just delicious but also versatile. Its moist layers combined with creamy coffee buttercream create a heavenly dessert experience. Feel free to customize it with your favorite additions or toppings. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy every bite!
Coffee Chocolate Cake
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the ultimate dessert experience with this Coffee Chocolate Cake, a luscious combination of moist chocolate layers and velvety coffee buttercream. Each slice offers a delightful balance of rich cocoa and robust coffee flavors, making it perfect for any occasion—birthdays, celebrations, or a sweet afternoon treat.
Ingredients
- 360 g black coffee
- 360 g all-purpose flour
- 300 g granulated sugar
- 150 g dark brown sugar
- 75 g unsweetened Dutch cocoa powder
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1 1/2 tsp salt
- 165 g vegetable oil
- 270 g sour cream
- 3 large eggs
- 3 tsp vanilla extract
- 400 g butter (for frosting)
- 660 g powdered sugar
- 2–2 1/2 tbsp black coffee (cooled down to room temperature)
- 1 tbsp instant espresso powder (optional, for more intense coffee flavor)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In one bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, sugars, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, cornstarch, and salt.
- In another bowl, mix the wet ingredients: coffee, vegetable oil, sour cream, eggs, and vanilla until smooth.
- Combine the wet and dry mixtures gently until fully incorporated without overmixing.
- Divide the batter between the prepared pans and bake for about 30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow cakes to cool for at least 10 minutes in the pans before transferring them to a cooling rack.
- While cooling, prepare the buttercream by beating room temperature butter until creamy; gradually add powdered sugar and cooled coffee.
- Once cooled completely, assemble the cake by layering with buttercream in between and frosting the top and sides.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
- Calories: 405
- Sugar: 38g
- Sodium: 315mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
