Chocolate Coffee Cake

Chocolate Coffee Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the rich flavors of chocolate and coffee. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, a birthday party, or just a cozy evening at home. This cake not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also gives you a caffeine boost, making it a favorite among chocolate and coffee lovers alike.

Why Make This Recipe

Making Chocolate Coffee Cake is a fantastic idea for several reasons. First, it is simple to prepare, requiring minimal ingredients you probably already have. Second, the combination of chocolate and coffee creates a rich flavor that everyone will enjoy. Finally, this cake is versatile; you can serve it for dessert or enjoy it with your morning coffee.

How to Make Chocolate Coffee Cake

Ingredients

2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
1 3/4 cups (350g) granulated sugar
3/4 cup (65g) unsweetened cocoa powder
2 tsp baking soda
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1 cup (240ml) hot brewed coffee
1 cup (240ml) buttermilk
1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil
2 large eggs
2 tsp pure vanilla extract
1 cup (230g) unsalted butter, softened
3 cups (360g) powdered sugar
2 tbsp instant coffee
2 tbsp hot water
1/2 cup (40g) unsweetened cocoa powder
2-3 tbsp heavy cream (as needed)
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
A pinch of salt

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans. Line the bottoms with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
In another bowl, combine the hot coffee, buttermilk, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until well blended.
Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, whisking until smooth. The batter will be thin, which ensures a moist cake.
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
Gradually add the powdered sugar and cocoa powder, mixing until smooth.
Mix in the dissolved coffee, vanilla extract, and salt.
Add heavy cream, one tablespoon at a time, until the frosting reaches your desired consistency.
Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous layer of frosting on top.
Add the second cake layer and frost the top and sides of the cake evenly.
Garnish with chocolate shavings, coffee beans, or a dusting of cocoa powder for an elegant finish.
Slice and serve.

How to Serve Chocolate Coffee Cake

Serve this delicious cake with a hot cup of coffee or tea. It also pairs well with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side, adding an extra touch of sweetness. For an elegant touch, consider garnishing with whipped cream or fresh berries.

How to Store Chocolate Coffee Cake

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it fresh longer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week. Make sure to wrap it well, as cake can dry out quickly in the fridge.

Tips to Make Chocolate Coffee Cake

Make sure your ingredients are at room temperature before mixing, as this helps the cake to rise better.
Don’t overmix the batter; this can make the cake tough.
If you want to make it even more chocolatey, add chocolate chips to the batter before baking.
Let the cake cool completely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.

Variation

You can customize this cake by adding nuts such as walnuts or pecans to the batter. For a different flavor, try using espresso instead of instant coffee for an even stronger coffee taste.

FAQs

1. Can I use decaf coffee for this recipe?
Yes, you can use decaf coffee if you want to reduce your caffeine intake.

2. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the cakes in advance and store them in the fridge. Frost them when you are ready to serve.

3. What can I substitute for buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make your own by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5 minutes before using.

Enjoy your baking and the delightful flavors of this Chocolate Coffee Cake!