Coffee Chocolate Cake
This Coffee Chocolate Cake is a delightful treat that brings together the rich flavors of chocolate and coffee in a moist, layered dessert. Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any celebration, this cake will impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth. With its velvety coffee buttercream and decadent chocolate layers, it’s truly a showstopper for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Incredible Flavor: The combination of coffee and chocolate creates a rich taste that is hard to resist.
- Moist Texture: Thanks to the sour cream and coffee, each bite of this cake is incredibly moist and tender.
- Versatile Occasion: This cake is suitable for birthdays, anniversaries, or just a sweet treat on a regular day.
- Easy to Follow: The step-by-step instructions make this recipe accessible for bakers at any skill level.
- Impressive Presentation: The three layers make for an eye-catching dessert that will wow your friends and family.
Tools and Preparation
Before you get started, it’s essential to have the right tools on hand. These tools will help you achieve the perfect Coffee Chocolate Cake with ease.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer or hand mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
- Cake pans (three 8-inch)
- Cooling rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer or hand mixer: Makes it easy to whip up the batter and buttercream quickly and efficiently.
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients separately before mixing them together.
- Cake pans: Ensures even baking and helps in creating perfect layers.
- Cooling rack: Allows cakes to cool evenly without becoming soggy.
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 cake bakes evenly from the start.
Step 2: Prepare Your Cake Pans
Grease three 8-inch round cake pans with butter or cooking spray. Then 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. Unsweetened Dutch cocoa powder
6. Baking powder
7. Baking soda
8. Salt
Whisk them together until well combined.
Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
In another mixing bowl, whisk together:
1. Black coffee
2. Vegetable oil
3. Sour cream
4. Eggs
5. Vanilla extract
Mix until smooth.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; this keeps your cake light and fluffy.
Step 6: Bake the Cake Layers
Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool Cakes Completely
Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to cool completely.
Step 8: Make Coffee Buttercream Frosting
In a stand mixer or using a hand mixer, beat:
1. Room temperature butter until creamy.
2. Gradually add powdered sugar while mixing on low speed until fully incorporated.
3. Add vanilla extract, cooled black coffee, and instant espresso powder if desired; mix until light and fluffy.
Step 9: Assemble Your Cake
Place one layer of cake on a serving plate or stand. Spread a generous amount of coffee buttercream on top. Repeat with the second layer, then place the final layer on top. Frost the entire cake with remaining buttercream.
Enjoy your stunning Coffee Chocolate Cake!
How to Serve Coffee Chocolate Cake
Serving Coffee Chocolate Cake is all about enhancing its rich flavors and moist texture. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy this indulgent dessert.
Classic Slice
- Serve a slice of the cake on a plate with a dusting of powdered sugar for a simple yet elegant presentation.
With Whipped Cream
- Top your cake with a dollop of freshly whipped cream. The creaminess balances perfectly with the chocolate and coffee flavors.
Ice Cream Pairing
- Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream next to your cake slice. The cold ice cream complements the warm, moist cake beautifully.
Coffee Drizzle
- Drizzle some warm coffee syrup over the cake before serving. This extra layer enhances the coffee flavor and makes it even more decadent.
Fresh Berries
- Garnish each slice with fresh berries, such as raspberries or strawberries. Their tartness adds a refreshing contrast to the rich cake.
How to Perfect Coffee Chocolate Cake
Perfecting your Coffee Chocolate Cake involves attention to detail during preparation and baking. Here are some tips to help you achieve that perfect result.
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Use room temperature ingredients: Ensure that eggs, sour cream, and butter are at room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smooth batter that rises evenly.
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Measure accurately: Use kitchen scales for precise measurements, especially for flour and sugar. Accurate measuring ensures consistent results every time.
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Don’t overmix: Mix the batter until just combined to avoid a dense cake. Overmixing can develop gluten in the flour, leading to a tough texture.
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Check for doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs. This confirms that your cake is perfectly baked.
Best Side Dishes for Coffee Chocolate Cake
Pairing side dishes with Coffee Chocolate Cake can elevate your dessert experience. Here’s a list of delicious options to consider:
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that adds creaminess and balances sweetness.
- Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle warm chocolate sauce over slices for an extra indulgent treat.
- Caramel Sauce: The sweetness of caramel complements the coffee and chocolate beautifully.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad can refresh your palate after enjoying this rich dessert.
- Cheese Plate: A selection of cheeses can contrast nicely with the sweet chocolate flavors.
- Espresso or Coffee: Serving a cup of coffee alongside enhances the coffee flavor in your cake.
- Nutty Biscotti: Crunchy biscotti can provide an interesting texture when enjoyed with each bite of cake.
- Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: These make for an elegant side that pairs well with both chocolate and coffee notes in your dessert.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking a perfect Coffee Chocolate Cake can be challenging. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:
- Using cold ingredients: Cold eggs or sour cream can affect the rise and texture. Always use room temperature ingredients for a better outcome.
- Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to a tough cake. Mix until just combined for light, airy layers.
- Not measuring accurately: Improper measurements can ruin your cake’s consistency. Use a kitchen scale for precision, especially with flour and sugar.
- Skipping the cooling time: Cutting into the cake too soon may cause it to fall apart. Let it cool completely before frosting for best results.
- Neglecting the coffee quality: Using low-quality coffee can diminish flavor. Choose a good coffee brand for an irresistible taste.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store your Coffee Chocolate Cake in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Coffee Chocolate Cake
- Wrap slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
- The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Coffee Chocolate Cake
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Wrap cake in foil and warm for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat a slice on medium power for about 15-20 seconds until warm.
- Stovetop: Place a slice in a non-stick skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Coffee Chocolate Cake.
How do I enhance the coffee flavor in my Coffee Chocolate Cake?
You can add extra instant espresso powder or use strong brewed coffee instead of regular coffee for richer flavor.
Can I make this Coffee Chocolate Cake gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking, ensuring other ingredients are also gluten-free.
How do I prevent my Coffee Chocolate Cake from sinking?
Make sure your baking powder and baking soda are fresh, and avoid overmixing the batter to keep it airy.
What frosting pairs well with Coffee Chocolate Cake?
Cream cheese frosting or chocolate ganache complements the flavors beautifully, adding richness and creaminess.
Can I customize this recipe?
Absolutely! Add nuts, chocolate chips, or different extracts like almond or hazelnut to personalize your cake.
Final Thoughts
This Coffee Chocolate Cake is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with different flavors or add-ins to suit your taste. Whether it’s for a special occasion or simply as a treat, this cake will surely impress. Try making it today!
Coffee Chocolate Cake
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the rich flavors of our Coffee Chocolate Cake, a decadent dessert that perfectly balances moist chocolate layers with velvety coffee buttercream. This three-layer cake is not only visually stunning but also incredibly delicious, making it an ideal centerpiece for birthdays, anniversaries, or any celebration. The combination of dark cocoa and freshly brewed coffee creates an irresistible taste sensation that will leave your guests wanting more. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this easy-to-follow recipe ensures impressive results every time. Treat yourself to this delightful dessert and elevate your next gathering!
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
- 3 large eggs
- 3 tsp vanilla extract
- 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)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease three 8-inch round cake pans.
- In a mixing bowl, combine dry ingredients: flour, cornstarch, sugars, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, whisk together wet ingredients: black coffee, vegetable oil, sour cream, eggs, and vanilla extract.
- Gradually mix wet ingredients into dry ingredients until just combined.
- Divide batter evenly among prepared pans and bake for about 30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool cakes in pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.
- For frosting, beat room temperature butter until creamy; gradually add powdered sugar and mix in cooled black coffee and vanilla.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 460
- Sugar: 45g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 56g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
