Coffee Chocolate Cake
This Coffee Chocolate Cake is the ultimate dessert for chocolate lovers and coffee aficionados alike. With three layers of moist chocolate cake and rich coffee buttercream, it’s perfect for any occasion, from birthdays to casual gatherings. Its delightful flavor combination will leave your guests craving more, making it a standout treat at your next event.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor: The blend of chocolate and coffee creates a unique taste experience that enhances every bite.
- Moist and Tender: Thanks to the sour cream and vegetable oil, this cake remains incredibly moist, ensuring a delicious texture.
- Versatile Frosting Options: While this recipe features coffee buttercream, you can easily adapt it with different flavors to suit your taste.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday party or a cozy family dinner, this cake fits right in.
- Simple to Make: With straightforward instructions, even novice bakers can create this impressive dessert.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into baking your Coffee Chocolate Cake, gather the necessary tools. Having everything on hand will streamline the process and ensure success.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
- Cake pans (3 round)
- Cooling rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Electric Mixer: Makes whipping the buttercream effortless, ensuring a light and fluffy texture.
- Cake Pans: Using three equal-sized pans helps achieve even layering for that classic layered look.
- Cooling Rack: Allows cakes to cool evenly without trapping moisture, keeping them light and airy.
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). This ensures your cake bakes evenly.
Step 2: Prepare Your Pans
Grease your three round cake pans with butter or cooking spray. Dust with flour to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl:
1. Combine all-purpose flour, cornstarch, granulated sugar, dark brown sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
2. Whisk until well combined.
Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl:
1. Blend together vegetable oil, sour cream, eggs, vanilla extract, and cooled black coffee until smooth.
Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the wet mixture into the dry ingredients:
1. Use an electric mixer on low speed until just combined.
2. Do not overmix; some lumps are okay.
Step 6: Bake the Cakes
Pour equal portions of batter into each prepared pan:
1. Bake in preheated oven for about 30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
2. Let cool in pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.
Step 7: Prepare Buttercream
While cakes cool:
1. In a mixing bowl, beat softened butter until creamy.
2. Gradually add powdered sugar while mixing on low speed.
3. Add vanilla extract and cooled black coffee; mix until smooth.
Step 8: Assemble the Cake
Once cakes are completely cool:
1. Place one layer on a serving plate.
2. Spread an even layer of buttercream on top.
3. Repeat with the second layer and cover the top with more buttercream.
4. Top with the final layer and frost the sides as desired.
Enjoy your delicious Coffee Chocolate Cake!
How to Serve Coffee Chocolate Cake
Serving Coffee Chocolate Cake can elevate your dessert experience. This cake pairs well with various accompaniments that enhance its rich flavors. Here are some delightful serving suggestions.
With Fresh Berries
- Strawberries: Their natural sweetness contrasts beautifully with the chocolate and coffee.
- Raspberries: The tartness of raspberries adds a refreshing touch to every bite.
A Scoop of Ice Cream
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic choice that complements the cake’s richness without overpowering it.
- Coffee Ice Cream: For the true coffee lover, this pairing intensifies the coffee flavor.
Drizzled with Caramel Sauce
- Salted Caramel: The saltiness balances the sweetness, making each slice even more indulgent.
- Dark Chocolate Sauce: Enhance the chocolate flavor with a rich dark chocolate drizzle.
Topped with Whipped Cream
- Sweetened Whipped Cream: Light and airy, it provides a lovely contrast to the dense cake.
- Flavored Whipped Cream: Consider adding vanilla or hazelnut extract for an extra layer of flavor.
With Nuts for Crunch
- Chopped Pecans: Their buttery flavor pairs well with both coffee and chocolate.
- Almonds: Sliced or slivered almonds add a delightful crunch and nutty taste.
How to Perfect Coffee Chocolate Cake
To achieve the perfect Coffee Chocolate Cake, consider these helpful tips. Each tip will guide you in creating a moist and flavorful dessert that everyone will love.
- Use room temperature ingredients: Having eggs and sour cream at room temperature helps create a smoother batter, leading to a better texture.
- Measure accurately: Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements, especially for flour and sugar, ensuring consistent baking results.
- Don’t overmix the batter: Mix until just combined to avoid tough cake layers; overmixing can lead to gluten development.
- Bake evenly: Rotate your cake pans halfway through baking to ensure even cooking and prevent uneven layers.
- Cool properly: Allow the cakes to cool in their pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks; this prevents breakage.
- Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add additional ingredients like espresso powder or flavored extracts for richer taste profiles.
Best Side Dishes for Coffee Chocolate Cake
Pairing side dishes with your Coffee Chocolate Cake can enhance its flavors. Here are some delightful options that complement this rich dessert.
- Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: A sweet treat that mirrors the cake’s flavors while adding freshness.
- Espresso Martini: A sophisticated cocktail that combines coffee and chocolate notes perfectly.
- Cheese Platter: Include sharp cheeses like cheddar or creamy brie; they provide a savory contrast to the sweet cake.
- Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances the cake’s richness.
- Nutty Granola Bars: Their crunchiness offers a fun texture contrast when enjoyed alongside each slice.
- Dark Chocolate Mousse: An indulgent option that enhances the chocolate experience while maintaining lightness on the palate.
- Caramelized Bananas: Sweet, warm bananas bring out the coffee flavor beautifully when served warm on top of the cake.
- Coffee-Infused Biscotti: These crunchy cookies can be dipped into coffee or served alongside slices for an added caffeine kick.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Mistakes can happen when making Coffee Chocolate Cake, but knowing what to look for can ensure your cake turns out perfectly.
- Ignoring ingredient temperatures: Using cold eggs or sour cream can lead to a dense cake. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing.
- Overmixing the batter: This can result in a tough texture. Mix just until combined to keep your cake light and fluffy.
- Skipping the coffee: Coffee enhances the chocolate flavor. Don’t leave it out; it’s essential for that rich taste!
- Not measuring correctly: Baking is a science. Use a kitchen scale for accuracy, especially with flour and sugar.
- Forgetting to level the flour: Scooping flour directly from the bag can lead to too much in your recipe. Always spoon it into the measuring cup and level off with a knife.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Keep layers separated with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Freezing Coffee Chocolate Cake
- Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.
Reheating Coffee Chocolate Cake
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place cake on a baking sheet, and warm for about 10 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 15-20 seconds at a time until warm.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm gently for about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes this Coffee Chocolate Cake so special?
This Coffee Chocolate Cake combines rich chocolate flavors with aromatic coffee, creating a delightful dessert experience that’s perfect for any occasion.
Can I substitute instant coffee in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute instant coffee with brewed coffee. Just ensure it is cooled down before adding it to the batter.
How do I make my Coffee Chocolate Cake even more moist?
Adding sour cream or using oil instead of butter will help keep your cake moist. Avoid overbaking as well!
Can I decorate my Coffee Chocolate Cake differently?
Absolutely! You can add chocolate shavings, nuts, or even fresh berries on top of your buttercream frosting for added flair.
Final Thoughts
The Coffee Chocolate Cake is not only delicious but also versatile enough to suit various tastes. Feel free to customize it by adding different flavors or toppings. Try baking this delightful cake today—you won’t be disappointed!
Coffee Chocolate Cake
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 slices 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful fusion of flavors with our Coffee Chocolate Cake, a must-try for chocolate and coffee lovers alike. This decadent dessert features three layers of moist chocolate cake enriched with aromatic coffee and topped with velvety coffee buttercream. Perfectly suited for birthdays, gatherings, or just because, this cake promises to leave your guests yearning for another slice. With straightforward instructions and versatile frosting options, even novice bakers can create this showstopper. Elevate your dessert game and impress everyone at your next event!
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 large eggs
- 270 g sour cream
- 400 g butter (for frosting)
- 660 g powdered sugar
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease three round cake pans.
- Combine dry ingredients: flour, sugars, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in one bowl.
- In another bowl, mix wet ingredients: oil, sour cream, eggs, vanilla extract, and cooled coffee.
- Gradually blend the wet mixture into the dry until just combined.
- Divide batter evenly among pans and bake for about 30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow cakes to cool in pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.
- For frosting, beat room temperature butter until creamy; gradually add powdered sugar followed by vanilla and cooled coffee.
- Assemble the cake by layering with buttercream between each layer.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (120g)
- Calories: 490
- Sugar: 50g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 63g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
