Coffee Chocolate Cake
This Coffee Chocolate Cake is the ultimate dessert for any occasion. With its three layers of moist chocolate cake and luscious coffee buttercream, it’s a crowd-pleaser that will delight friends and family alike. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a gathering, or simply indulging yourself, this cake offers a rich flavor combination that’s hard to resist.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Decadent Flavor: The combination of rich chocolate and aromatic coffee creates an unforgettable taste experience.
- Moist Texture: Thanks to the sour cream and oils, each slice remains incredibly moist, ensuring satisfaction in every bite.
- Versatile Occasion: Perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or just a cozy afternoon treat with coffee.
- Simple Ingredients: Made from common pantry staples, this recipe is easy to whip up without special shopping trips.
- Customizable: Feel free to add flavors like instant espresso or nuts for an extra twist that suits your palate.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the baking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
- 9-inch round cake pans
- Cooling rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Electric mixer: Ensures thorough mixing of ingredients, leading to a lighter cake texture.
- 9-inch round cake pans: Ideal size for even baking and easy stacking of layers.
- Cooling rack: Allows cakes to cool evenly without becoming soggy 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 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 Coffee Buttercream Frosting
- 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). Greasing and lining your cake pans will help prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl:
1. Combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, granulated sugar, dark brown sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
2. Whisk until well blended.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl:
1. Mix the vegetable oil, sour cream, eggs, vanilla extract, and cooled black coffee until smooth.
2. Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients while mixing continuously until just combined.
Step 4: Bake the Cakes
Pour the batter evenly into prepared cake pans:
1. Bake in preheated oven for about 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
2. Allow cakes to cool in pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them onto a cooling rack.
Step 5: Prepare Coffee Buttercream Frosting
In a large mixing bowl:
1. Beat room-temperature butter until creamy.
2. Gradually mix in powdered sugar until fully incorporated.
3. Add vanilla extract and cooled black coffee; beat until fluffy and smooth. If desired, mix in optional espresso powder for added depth.
Step 6: Assemble Your Cake
Once cakes are completely cooled:
1. Place one layer on a serving plate; spread frosting generously over top.
2. Repeat with second layer before placing the final layer on top.
3. Frost the top and sides of the entire cake as desired.
Enjoy your homemade Coffee Chocolate Cake!
How to Serve Coffee Chocolate Cake
Serving your Coffee Chocolate Cake can elevate the dessert experience. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy evening at home, here are some delightful serving suggestions.
Pair with Fresh Berries
- Fresh strawberries and raspberries add a refreshing contrast to the rich chocolate flavors, making each bite more enjoyable.
Add a Scoop of Ice Cream
- A scoop of vanilla or coffee ice cream can complement the cake perfectly, creating a delightful mix of creaminess and richness.
Drizzle with Caramel Sauce
- A warm caramel drizzle adds an extra layer of sweetness that pairs beautifully with the deep flavors of chocolate and coffee.
Serve with Whipped Cream
- Light, airy whipped cream balances the dense layers of cake, enhancing the overall texture and taste.
Accompany with Espresso
- A small cup of espresso beside your slice highlights the coffee flavor in the cake and offers a perfect finish to your dessert.
Garnish with Chocolate Shavings
- Sprinkling chocolate shavings on top not only enhances presentation but also intensifies the chocolate experience.
How to Perfect Coffee Chocolate Cake
To achieve the best results when making Coffee Chocolate Cake, consider these helpful tips.
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Use fresh ingredients: Ensure your baking powder, baking soda, and cocoa powder are fresh for optimal rising and flavor.
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Room temperature ingredients: Bring eggs and sour cream to room temperature before using; this helps create a smoother batter.
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Don’t overmix: Mix your batter just until combined to avoid tough cake. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture.
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Sift dry ingredients: Sifting flour, cocoa powder, and cornstarch together helps aerate them, resulting in a lighter cake.
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Cool completely: Allow cakes to cool fully before frosting. This prevents melting and ensures your buttercream stays intact.
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Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add espresso powder for an extra coffee kick or adjust sugar levels based on preference.
Best Side Dishes for Coffee Chocolate Cake
Pairing side dishes with your Coffee Chocolate Cake can enhance its flavors. Here are some fantastic options to consider.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic companion that adds creaminess and balances the cake’s richness.
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Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides a fresh contrast that brightens up every bite.
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Chocolate Mousse: Rich and creamy, it complements the cake without overpowering its flavor profile.
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Cheese Platter: Include sharp cheeses like aged cheddar; their saltiness pairs well with sweet desserts.
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Espresso or Coffee: Serving alongside enhances the coffee flavor in the cake, making it an ideal pairing.
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Nutty Biscotti: Crunchy biscotti offers texture contrast while echoing the coffee theme beautifully.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making your Coffee Chocolate Cake, it’s easy to overlook a few important details. Here are some common mistakes to steer clear of:
- Using cold ingredients – Always ensure your eggs and sour cream are at room temperature. Cold ingredients can lead to uneven baking.
- Skipping the coffee – Don’t underestimate the power of coffee in enhancing the chocolate flavor. Use brewed black coffee or instant coffee for best results.
- Overmixing the batter – Mixing too much can create a dense cake. Mix until just combined for a light and airy texture.
- Ignoring baking time – Every oven is different. Check for doneness a few minutes before the suggested time to avoid overbaking.
- Not leveling the cake layers – Uneven layers can make stacking difficult. Level your cakes with a serrated knife for even layers.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Coffee Chocolate Cake in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 5 days in the fridge.
Freezing Coffee Chocolate Cake
- Wrap each layer in plastic wrap, then store 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). Wrap the cake in foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave – Use low power settings and heat slices for about 15-20 seconds at a time until warm.
- Stovetop – Place slices in a pan on low heat, covering it with a lid for about 5 minutes to warm through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions regarding Coffee Chocolate Cake that might help you out.
How do I make my Coffee Chocolate Cake more moist?
Adding an extra egg or using buttermilk instead of sour cream can enhance moisture levels in your cake.
Can I use decaf coffee in this recipe?
Yes, using decaf coffee will still provide great flavor without the caffeine kick.
How long does it take to bake the Coffee Chocolate Cake?
The typical baking time is around 30 minutes, but always check with a toothpick for doneness.
What can I substitute for sour cream?
Greek yogurt is an excellent substitute that will maintain the richness of your Coffee Chocolate Cake.
Final Thoughts
This Coffee Chocolate Cake is not only incredibly delicious but also versatile enough for various occasions. Whether you want to customize it with nuts, sprinkles, or additional flavors like caramel, this cake can satisfy any craving. Give it a try, and you won’t be disappointed!
Coffee Chocolate Cake
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the ultimate dessert experience with this Coffee Chocolate Cake! This three-layered delight combines rich chocolate cake with luscious coffee buttercream, making it the perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a gathering, or simply treating yourself, each bite delivers a moist, flavorful sensation that will leave friends and family craving more. Easy to make with simple pantry staples, this customizable recipe allows you to add your favorite flavors, ensuring a unique twist every time. Get ready to bake your way into dessert paradise!
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 (room temperature)
- 3 large eggs (room temperature)
- 3 tsp vanilla extract
- 400 g butter (for frosting)
- 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 your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your cake pans.
- In a large bowl, whisk together all dry ingredients.
- In another bowl, mix wet ingredients until smooth; gradually combine with dry ingredients.
- Pour batter into prepared pans and bake for about 30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool cakes before preparing coffee buttercream by beating room-temperature butter and gradually adding powdered sugar, coffee, and optional espresso powder.
- Assemble the cooled cake layers with frosting between each layer and cover the entire cake.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: General
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 40g
- Sodium: 260mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 53g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
