Chocolate Espresso Cake
Chocolate Espresso Cake
Ingredients
For the Cake:
2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
¾ cup (65g) unsweetened cocoa powder
2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp espresso powder (or finely ground instant coffee)
1 tsp salt
2 large eggs
1 cup (240ml) whole milk
½ cup (120ml) vegetable oil
2 tsp pure vanilla extract
1 cup (240ml) boiling water
1 cup (240ml) hot brewed espresso or strong coffee
For the Espresso Buttercream Frosting:
1 cup (227g / 2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
3 cups (360g) powdered sugar
2–3 tbsp heavy cream or whole milk
1 tsp vanilla extract
1–2 tsp espresso powder (or finely ground instant coffee)
Pinch of salt
Optional: 1–2 tbsp brewed espresso or coffee (for a stronger flavor)
For Garnish:
Roasted coffee beans
Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat Oven & Prepare Pans
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans, or line them with parchment paper.
2️⃣ Make the Cake Batter
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, espresso powder, and salt.
Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes until smooth.
Slowly stir in hot brewed espresso (or coffee) and boiling water. The batter will be thin — this is normal.
Pour batter evenly into the prepared pans.
3️⃣ Bake the Cake
Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
4️⃣ Make the Espresso Buttercream
Beat softened butter until creamy.
Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing on low speed until combined.
Mix in vanilla extract, espresso powder, salt, and 2 tbsp heavy cream. Beat 2–3 minutes until light and fluffy.
If too thick, add more cream 1 tbsp at a time. For stronger flavor, add 1–2 tbsp brewed espresso.
5️⃣ Assemble the Cake
Place one cake layer on a plate or stand. Spread frosting generously on top.
Place second layer on top. Frost sides and top.
Optional: Pipe decorative swirls with a star tip and garnish with roasted coffee beans.
