Coffee Chocolate Cake
This Coffee Chocolate Cake is the ultimate dessert for any occasion. With its luscious layers of moist chocolate cake and rich coffee buttercream, it’s perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or simply a cozy afternoon treat. The combination of coffee and chocolate creates a unique flavor that appeals to both coffee lovers and dessert enthusiasts alike. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this delightful cake that tastes as good as it looks!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Incredibly Moist: Each layer of the coffee chocolate cake is made with sour cream, ensuring a rich and tender crumb.
- Decadent Flavor: The blend of chocolate and coffee creates a sophisticated taste that elevates any dessert table.
- Versatile Occasion Fit: Whether it’s a birthday party or a casual gathering, this cake is suitable for all events.
- Easy to Follow: With straightforward instructions, even novice bakers can achieve bakery-level results.
- Make Ahead Option: This cake can be baked in advance and stored, making it perfect for busy schedules.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the baking process, it’s essential to gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the preparation smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer or hand mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
- 9-inch round cake pans (3)
- Cooling rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer or hand mixer: Helps to mix ingredients thoroughly, ensuring a fluffy batter without too much effort.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for baking success; these ensure you get the right amounts every time.
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 cakes bake evenly.
Step 2: Prepare Cake Pans
Grease three 9-inch round cake pans with butter or cooking spray. Line the bottoms with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
1. All-purpose flour
2. Cornstarch
3. Granulated sugar
4. Dark brown sugar
5. Cocoa powder
6. Baking powder
7. Baking soda
8. Salt
Whisk these dry ingredients together until well blended.
Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together:
1. Vegetable oil
2. Sour cream
3. Eggs
4. Vanilla extract
5. Black coffee
Make sure everything is at room temperature for better mixing.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the wet mixture into the dry ingredients while mixing on low speed until just combined.
Step 6: Bake the Cakes
Divide the batter evenly among the three prepared pans. Bake in preheated oven for about 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool Down
Once baked, let the cakes cool in their pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to cool completely.
Step 8: Make Buttercream
While cakes are cooling, beat room-temperature butter until creamy in a stand mixer. Gradually add powdered sugar until combined, then mix in vanilla extract and cooled black coffee until smooth.
Step 9: Assemble the Cake
Place one layer of cake on a serving plate, spread an even layer of buttercream on top, then repeat with remaining layers. Finish by frosting the sides and top with additional buttercream.
Enjoy your delicious Coffee Chocolate Cake!
How to Serve Coffee Chocolate Cake
Serving your Coffee Chocolate Cake can elevate the dessert experience. Whether it’s for a special occasion or a casual gathering, here are some delightful ways to enjoy this rich treat.
Pair with Coffee
- A cup of freshly brewed coffee complements the cake’s flavors beautifully, enhancing the coffee notes in each bite.
Add Ice Cream
- Vanilla or coffee-flavored ice cream creates a creamy contrast to the moist layers of the cake, making every slice indulgent.
Drizzle with Caramel Sauce
- A warm caramel sauce poured over the top adds sweetness and a luxurious touch, perfect for those with a sweet tooth.
Serve with Whipped Cream
- Lightly whipped cream can balance the richness of the chocolate, providing a light and airy texture that pairs well.
Garnish with Nuts
- Chopped walnuts or almonds sprinkled on top add crunch and an extra layer of flavor that complements the cake’s softness.
Fresh Berries on the Side
- Raspberries or strawberries serve as a tart counterpart to the sweetness, bringing freshness to each serving.
How to Perfect Coffee Chocolate Cake
To ensure your Coffee Chocolate Cake turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use room temperature ingredients: This helps create an even batter that rises nicely.
- Measure flour correctly: Spoon and level your flour instead of scooping it directly from the bag for accurate measurements.
- Don’t overmix the batter: Mix until just combined to keep your cake light and fluffy.
- Check for doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few crumbs attached.
- Cool completely before frosting: This prevents melting and sliding of your buttercream frosting.
- Experiment with flavors: Adding instant espresso powder boosts coffee flavor if you desire more intensity.
Best Side Dishes for Coffee Chocolate Cake
Pairing side dishes with your Coffee Chocolate Cake can enhance its appeal. Here are some great suggestions:
-
Fresh Fruit Salad
A mix of seasonal fruits adds color and freshness, balancing the richness of the cake. -
Chocolate Mousse
A small serving of chocolate mousse can amplify chocolate flavors while adding smoothness. -
Cheesecake Bites
Mini cheesecake bites offer a tangy contrast that pairs wonderfully with chocolate. -
Nutty Granola
A sprinkle of nutty granola adds crunch and pairs well with whipped cream or yogurt on the side. -
Coconut Macaroons
These chewy treats bring tropical sweetness that contrasts nicely against coffee and chocolate. -
Mini Pastries
Assorted mini pastries can give variety, making dessert time exciting and festive.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking a Coffee Chocolate Cake can be tricky if you’re not careful. Here are some common mistakes to dodge:
- Using cold ingredients: Cold eggs or sour cream can lead to uneven mixing. Always use room temperature ingredients for the best results.
- Skipping the measuring: Baking is precise, so avoid eyeballing your measurements. Use kitchen scales for accuracy.
- Not cooling the cake layers: If you frost a warm cake, the buttercream may melt. Allow layers to cool completely before frosting.
- Overmixing the batter: This can result in a dense cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined for a light and fluffy texture.
- Ignoring baking times: Every oven is different. Keep an eye on your cake and do the toothpick test to ensure it’s done.
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 fridge.
Freezing Coffee Chocolate Cake
- Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap or foil before freezing.
- It can be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw in the fridge overnight.
Reheating Coffee Chocolate Cake
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat a slice for 10-15 seconds on low power for a warm treat.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat, cover with a lid, and warm for about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some answers to common questions about making Coffee Chocolate Cake.
Can I use instant coffee instead of brewed coffee?
Yes, you can substitute instant coffee. Use about 2 teaspoons mixed with hot water as per your preference in the recipe.
How do I make a gluten-free version of Coffee Chocolate Cake?
You can replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure the blend includes xanthan gum for better structure.
What frosting pairs well with Coffee Chocolate Cake?
Coffee buttercream is ideal, but chocolate ganache or whipped cream also complements it beautifully.
How should I serve Coffee Chocolate Cake?
This cake is delightful on its own but pairs wonderfully with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for extra indulgence!
Final Thoughts
This Coffee Chocolate Cake is not only amazing but also versatile! With its rich flavors and moist texture, it’s perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize it with nuts or chocolate chips. Try this recipe today, and enjoy every bite!
Coffee Chocolate Cake
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 1x
Description
Indulge in the rich flavors of our Coffee Chocolate Cake, the perfect dessert for any occasion! This decadent three-layer cake features moist chocolate layers complemented by smooth coffee buttercream, making it a delightful treat for coffee lovers and dessert enthusiasts alike. Whether it’s for a birthday celebration or a cozy afternoon gathering, this cake is sure to impress with its sophisticated taste and stunning presentation. Follow our simple recipe to create this heavenly delight that’s as beautiful as it is delicious!
Ingredients
- 360 g brewed black coffee (or 2 tsp instant coffee)
- 360 g all-purpose flour
- 300 g granulated sugar
- 150 g dark brown sugar
- 75 g unsweetened Dutch cocoa powder
- 270 g sour cream
- 3 large eggs
- 400 g butter (for frosting)
- 660 g powdered sugar
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease three 9-inch round cake pans.
- In one bowl, whisk together flour, sugars, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, combine vegetable oil, sour cream, eggs, vanilla extract, and black coffee.
- Gradually mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined.
- Divide the batter among the prepared pans and bake for about 30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool the cakes before preparing the buttercream by beating room-temperature butter with powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and cooled black coffee until smooth.
- Assemble by layering cake with buttercream in between each layer and frost the top and sides.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (140g)
- Calories: 490
- Sugar: 46g
- Sodium: 290mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 67g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
