Coffee Chocolate Cake
This Coffee Chocolate Cake is a showstopper! With its three layers of moist chocolate cake and silky coffee buttercream, it’s perfect for any occasion—from birthdays to casual get-togethers. The rich flavors of coffee and chocolate meld beautifully, creating a dessert that’s not only delicious but also unforgettable. Whether you’re a coffee lover or just looking for a decadent treat, this cake will surely impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Decadent Flavor: The combination of rich chocolate and aromatic coffee creates an irresistible taste sensation.
- Moist Texture: Thanks to the sour cream and oil, each slice stays incredibly moist and tender.
- Versatile Occasion: Perfect for celebrations, afternoon tea, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth.
- Easy to Make: With straightforward instructions, even novice bakers can create this stunning cake.
- Stunning Presentation: The layered design and smooth frosting make it visually appealing for any gathering.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking this delightful Coffee Chocolate Cake, gather your tools. Having everything on hand will streamline the process and ensure success.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Electric mixer
- Rubber spatula
- 9-inch round cake pans
- Cooling rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Electric mixer: This tool saves time and effort when whipping the batter to a light and fluffy consistency.
- 9-inch round cake pans: Ideal for achieving perfectly shaped layers that stack well together.
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 teaspoon 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). This ensures that your cake bakes evenly.
Step 2: Prepare Your Pans
Grease three 9-inch round cake pans with butter or non-stick spray. Dust them lightly with flour to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:
1. All-purpose flour
2. Cornstarch
3. Granulated sugar
4. Dark brown sugar
5. Unsweetened cocoa powder
6. Baking powder
7. Baking soda
8. Salt
Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, combine:
1. Black coffee (or instant coffee dissolved in water)
2. Vegetable oil
3. Sour cream
4. Eggs (beaten)
5. Vanilla extract
Mix until well combined.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the wet ingredients into the dry mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Do not overmix; lumps are okay.
Step 6: Bake the Cakes
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for about 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool Layers
Allow the cakes to cool in their pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them onto a cooling rack to cool completely.
Step 8: Make Coffee Buttercream
Using an electric mixer, beat room temperature butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing well between additions. Add black coffee, vanilla extract, and optional espresso powder until you achieve your desired consistency.
Step 9: Assemble the Cake
Once the layers are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate or stand. Spread a generous amount of coffee buttercream on top before placing another layer on top of it. Repeat with remaining layers and frost the sides of the cake as desired.
Step 10: Serve and Enjoy!
Slice your Coffee Chocolate Cake into twelve pieces, serve it up, and enjoy every delicious bite!
How to Serve Coffee Chocolate Cake
Serving Coffee Chocolate Cake is a delightful experience that can elevate any occasion. Whether it’s a special celebration or a casual gathering, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dessert presentation.
With Fresh Berries
- Raspberries or strawberries add a refreshing contrast to the rich chocolate flavor of the cake.
A Scoop of Ice Cream
- Vanilla or coffee-flavored ice cream complements the cake’s taste and creates a creamy texture that balances the richness.
Drizzled with Caramel Sauce
- A warm drizzle of caramel sauce adds an indulgent touch and enhances the overall sweetness.
Topped with Whipped Cream
- Light and fluffy whipped cream can soften the dense layers, making each bite even more enjoyable.
Paired with Espresso
- Serving a small cup of espresso alongside the cake enhances its coffee flavor and offers a delightful finish.
Dusting of Cocoa Powder
- A simple dusting of cocoa powder on top gives an elegant look while subtly enhancing the chocolate notes.
How to Perfect Coffee Chocolate Cake
Perfecting your Coffee Chocolate Cake involves attention to detail and a few baking tips. Here’s how you can achieve that ideal texture and flavor.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure eggs, sour cream, and butter are at room temperature for better mixing and fluffiness.
- Measure Flour Accurately: Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements, ensuring your cake isn’t too dense.
- Don’t Overmix Batter: Mix until just combined to avoid tough cake; overmixing develops gluten in the flour.
- Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking temperatures for even cooking.
- Cool Layers Completely: Allow cake layers to cool fully before frosting; this prevents melting the buttercream.
- Add Espresso Powder: For an intense coffee flavor, consider adding instant espresso powder to your batter or frosting.
Best Side Dishes for Coffee Chocolate Cake
Coffee Chocolate Cake pairs beautifully with various side dishes that enhance its flavors. Here are some great options to serve alongside it:
- Vanilla Ice Cream: This classic pairing brings a creamy sweetness that softens the chocolate richness.
- Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and lightness to balance out the dessert.
- Chocolate Mousse: For true chocolate lovers, a dollop of rich chocolate mousse can take indulgence to another level.
- Cheese Plate: A selection of cheeses like brie or gouda can provide a savory contrast to the sweet cake.
- Coffee Granita: This icy treat offers additional coffee flavor while refreshing your palate between bites.
- Nutty Biscotti: Crunchy biscotti makes for a delightful textural contrast and is perfect for dipping in coffee.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Coffee Chocolate Cake, it’s easy to run into some common pitfalls. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:
- Using cold ingredients: Always make sure your eggs and sour cream are at room temperature. Cold ingredients can lead to a dense cake.
- Not measuring accurately: Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements. Small discrepancies can alter the cake’s texture and flavor.
- Skipping the coffee: Don’t skip adding coffee or espresso powder; it enhances the chocolate flavor. If you want a milder taste, adjust the amount instead of omitting it.
- Underbaking or overbaking: Keep an eye on your cake during the last few minutes in the oven. An overbaked cake will be dry, while an underbaked one will collapse.
- Not letting it cool properly: Allow your layers to cool completely before frosting them. This prevents melting and slipping of the buttercream.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store any leftover Coffee Chocolate Cake in an airtight container.
- It will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the fridge.
Freezing Coffee Chocolate Cake
- Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
- You can freeze the cake for up to 3 months without losing flavor.
Reheating Coffee Chocolate Cake
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10-15 minutes. Cover with foil to prevent drying.
- Microwave: Heat one slice at a time for about 20-30 seconds on medium power. Be careful not to overheat.
- Stovetop: Place a slice in a pan over low heat, covering it with a lid. Warm for about 5 minutes until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Coffee Chocolate Cake:
Can I use decaf coffee for Coffee Chocolate Cake?
Yes! Using decaf coffee works well if you want to avoid caffeine but still enjoy that rich flavor.
How can I make this Coffee Chocolate Cake gluten-free?
You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Ensure that it’s suitable for baking.
What should I serve with my Coffee Chocolate Cake?
Pairing your cake with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream makes for a delightful dessert experience.
How long does it take to make Coffee Chocolate Cake?
The total time is approximately 75 minutes, including preparation and baking time.
Can I customize the frosting on my Coffee Chocolate Cake?
Absolutely! You can experiment with different flavors like mocha or vanilla buttercream to suit your taste.
Final Thoughts
This Coffee Chocolate Cake is not only incredibly moist but also versatile enough to impress at any gathering. Feel free to customize it by adding nuts or different frostings. We encourage you to try this recipe and share your delicious results!
Coffee Chocolate Cake
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Indulge your senses with this Coffee Chocolate Cake, a decadent dessert that beautifully combines rich chocolate and aromatic coffee flavors. With three moist layers of chocolate cake and silky coffee buttercream, this cake is perfect for any occasion—from birthdays to casual gatherings. Each slice offers a delightful taste experience and an unforgettable presentation, making it an ideal centerpiece for dessert tables. Whether you are a coffee enthusiast or simply craving something sweet, this cake will impress everyone at the table.
Ingredients
- 360 g black coffee (or 2 tsp 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
- 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)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare three greased and floured 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, cornstarch, sugars, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, mix wet ingredients: black coffee, oil, sour cream, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Gradually add wet ingredients to the dry mixture until just combined; do not overmix.
- Divide the batter among prepared pans and bake for about 30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool in pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.
- For the buttercream, beat room temperature butter until creamy; gradually add powdered sugar and mix in coffee until desired consistency is reached.
- Once cooled, assemble the layers with buttercream between each layer and frost the sides as desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 397
- Sugar: 37g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 83mg
