Coffee Chocolate Cake
This Coffee Chocolate Cake is simply irresistible! With its three layers of moist chocolate goodness and a rich coffee buttercream, it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a birthday celebration or a cozy family gathering, this cake will impress everyone. The combination of coffee and chocolate creates a unique flavor that makes every bite delightful.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Incredible Flavor: The rich chocolate paired with coffee creates a luxurious taste experience.
- Moist Texture: Thanks to the sour cream and oil, each slice stays soft and tender.
- Versatile Occasion: Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or just because you deserve a treat!
- Easy to Make: Simple steps ensure that even novice bakers can create this show-stopping dessert.
- Impressive Presentation: Three layers of cake make for a stunning centerpiece at any gathering.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking your Coffee Chocolate Cake, gather the essential tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking pans (9-inch round)
- Cooling rack
- Spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Electric mixer or whisk: Helps achieve a fluffy batter by incorporating air efficiently.
- Baking pans: The right size ensures even baking for all layers, which is crucial for a layered cake.
- Cooling rack: Allows cakes to cool properly without getting 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 Layers
- 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). This ensures that your cake bakes evenly from the start.
Step 2: Prepare the Pans
Grease three 9-inch round baking pans with cooking spray or butter. Line the bottoms with parchment paper for easy removal after baking.
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. Dutch cocoa powder
6. Baking powder
7. Baking soda
8. Salt
Whisk these ingredients together until well combined.
Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl:
1. Mix vegetable oil, sour cream, eggs, vanilla extract, and cooled black coffee.
2. Blend until smooth using an electric mixer or whisk.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the wet mixture into the dry ingredients while mixing on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix; some lumps are okay!
Step 6: Bake the Cake Layers
Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans. Bake in preheated oven for about 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool Layers
Once baked, remove from oven and let them cool in pans for about 10 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack to cool completely.
Step 8: Make Coffee Buttercream Frosting
In a large bowl, beat room-temperature butter until creamy, then gradually add powdered sugar. Add vanilla extract and cooled black coffee, mixing until fluffy. If desired, incorporate instant espresso powder for an extra kick!
Step 9: Assemble the Cake
Once all layers are completely cooled:
1. Place one layer on your serving plate.
2. Spread an even layer of frosting on top.
3. Add another layer and repeat until all layers are stacked.
4. Use remaining frosting to cover sides and top as desired.
Enjoy your homemade Coffee Chocolate Cake!
How to Serve Coffee Chocolate Cake
Serving your Coffee Chocolate Cake in delightful ways can enhance the experience for you and your guests. This cake is not only visually appealing but also pairs wonderfully with various accompaniments.
With Fresh Berries
- Strawberries: Fresh strawberries add a sweet and tart contrast that complements the rich coffee chocolate flavor.
- Raspberries: Their slight acidity balances the sweetness of the cake, making each bite refreshing.
A Scoop of Ice Cream
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The classic choice that provides a creamy texture against the moist cake.
- Coffee Ice Cream: For coffee lovers, this pairing enhances the flavor profile of the Coffee Chocolate Cake.
Drizzled with Caramel Sauce
- Homemade Caramel: A warm drizzle over each slice adds a luscious sweetness that pairs beautifully with chocolate and coffee.
- Sea Salt Caramel: The hint of salt elevates the sweetness and brings out complex flavors in the cake.
With Whipped Cream
- Sweetened Whipped Cream: Light and airy, it adds a creamy touch that balances the dense layers of chocolate.
- Flavored Whipped Cream: Consider adding a hint of vanilla or coffee extract for an extra flavor boost.
How to Perfect Coffee Chocolate Cake
Getting your Coffee Chocolate Cake just right takes some attention to detail. Here are tips to ensure your cake is perfect every time.
- Use room temperature ingredients: This helps in achieving a smoother batter, leading to a more even bake.
- Don’t overmix: Mixing too much can lead to dense cake; mix until just combined for a light texture.
- Measure flour accurately: Use the spoon-and-level method to avoid dense cake resulting from too much flour.
- Check for doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached.
- Cool completely before frosting: This prevents melting your buttercream and maintains its fluffy texture.
- Store properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge for freshness.
Best Side Dishes for Coffee Chocolate Cake
Pairing your Coffee Chocolate Cake with side dishes can create a well-rounded dessert experience. Here are some great options:
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness to your dessert table.
- Cheese Platter: Soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese provide a creamy contrast to the cake’s richness.
- Chocolate Covered Espresso Beans: These add an extra kick of coffee flavor, enhancing your overall coffee experience.
- Coffee Granita: A frozen coffee treat that complements the flavors in your cake while providing a cooling effect.
- Nutty Biscotti: Crunchy biscotti pairs perfectly for dipping alongside each slice.
- Chocolate Mousse: A light and airy mousse adds elegance while keeping within the chocolate theme.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making a Coffee Chocolate Cake can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can ruin your dessert. Here are some to avoid.
- Using cold ingredients: Always ensure your eggs and sour cream are at room temperature. This helps create a smooth batter and ensures even baking.
- Not measuring accurately: Baking is a science. Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements of flour and sugar to avoid dry or dense cake.
- Overmixing the batter: Mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a tough cake instead of a light, fluffy texture.
- Ignoring oven temperature: Preheat your oven properly. An incorrect temperature can affect baking time and result in uneven cooking.
- Skipping the cooling process: Allow the cakes to cool completely before frosting. This prevents melting the buttercream and ruining your presentation.
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 and then in aluminum foil for up to 3 months.
- Label with date for easy reference.
Reheating Coffee Chocolate Cake
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place the cake on a baking sheet, cover with foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 10-15 seconds. Be cautious not to overheat.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat with a lid for 5-7 minutes. This method keeps the cake moist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making the perfect Coffee Chocolate Cake.
How do I enhance the coffee flavor in my Coffee Chocolate Cake?
To boost the coffee flavor, add instant espresso powder directly into the batter or increase the amount of brewed coffee.
Can I use different types of cocoa powder?
Yes, you can use unsweetened natural cocoa powder, but Dutch cocoa will give you a richer flavor and color in your Coffee Chocolate Cake.
How can I make this cake gluten-free?
Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup. Ensure other ingredients are also gluten-free.
What can I use instead of buttercream frosting?
Cream cheese frosting or whipped ganache are excellent alternatives that pair wonderfully with this Coffee Chocolate Cake.
Final Thoughts
This Coffee Chocolate Cake is not only incredibly moist but also versatile for any occasion. You can customize it by adding nuts or flavored extracts. Try it today, and delight your friends and family with this decadent treat!
Coffee Chocolate Cake
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 slices 1x
Description
Indulge in the decadent delight of our Coffee Chocolate Cake, a three-layered masterpiece that combines rich chocolate with a robust coffee flavor. This cake is not only moist and fluffy but also features a luscious coffee buttercream frosting that elevates every slice. Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or simply as a treat for yourself, this cake will impress your guests and satisfy your sweet cravings. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, even novice bakers can create this show-stopping dessert. Prepare to dive into a world of delightful flavors and textures with every bite!
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)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease three 9-inch round baking pans.
- In one bowl, mix together the dry ingredients: flour, sugars, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, cornstarch, and salt.
- In another bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients: oil, sour cream, eggs, vanilla extract, and cooled black coffee until smooth.
- Gradually combine the wet mixture with the dry ingredients; mix until just combined.
- Divide batter among 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 to cool completely.
- For frosting: beat room-temperature butter until creamy; gradually add powdered sugar and mix in vanilla extract and cooled coffee.
- Assemble the cake by layering with frosting between each layer and covering 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: 365
- Sugar: 45g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
