Description
This rich and moist Coffee Chocolate Cake combines deep cocoa flavors with a robust coffee infusion, layered and frosted with a luscious coffee buttercream. Perfect for coffee lovers and chocolate enthusiasts alike, this cake makes a stunning dessert for any occasion.
Ingredients
Cake Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup cornstarch
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (Dutch-process recommended)
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup freshly brewed coffee (or hot water)
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Coffee Buttercream Frosting Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons brewed coffee
- 1 teaspoon instant coffee (for extra flavor)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set the oven to 340°F (170°C). Grease and line three 8-inch cake pans with parchment paper to prevent sticking and allow easy removal of the cakes.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt ensuring even distribution of all dry ingredients.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat together the vegetable oil, eggs, sour cream, freshly brewed coffee, and vanilla extract until well blended.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients while stirring continuously until a smooth and homogeneous batter forms.
- Bake the Cake Layers: Evenly divide the batter among the prepared cake pans and bake for 28 to 30 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean.
- Cool the Cakes: Allow the cakes to cool for 10 minutes in the pans, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely to room temperature.
- Prepare Coffee Buttercream: Stir the instant coffee into the brewed coffee until fully dissolved. In a stand mixer, beat the softened butter on medium speed for about 4 minutes until light and fluffy.
- Add Sugar and Coffee Mixture: Gradually add the powdered sugar, dissolved coffee, and vanilla extract to the butter while mixing continuously. Beat until the frosting is smooth and creamy.
- Trim Cake Layers: Using a serrated knife, level the tops of the cooled cakes to create even layers for stacking.
- Layer the Cake: Spread a generous amount of coffee buttercream between each cake layer to create distinct, flavorful layers.
- Frost the Cake: Apply a crumb coat to seal in the crumbs, refrigerate briefly, then apply a final smooth layer of the coffee buttercream. Decorate as desired before serving.
Notes
- Using Dutch-process cocoa powder enhances the flavor and gives a richer color.
- Ensure coffee is freshly brewed and hot for best flavor integration in the batter.
- If you prefer, substitute hot water for coffee for a less intense coffee flavor.
- Allow cakes to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting the buttercream.
- For added texture, sprinkle finely chopped coffee beans or chocolate shavings on top.
- This cake can be stored covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated up to 5 days.