My aunt has been making this chocolate coffee cake for years, and it’s always a hit at every family gathering. Her secret? Adding coffee to the batter, which enhances the chocolate flavor and creates an incredibly moist texture. If you’ve ever wondered, “What does adding coffee to chocolate cake do?”, the answer is simple—it deepens the richness of the cake without overpowering its taste.
This chocolate cake with coffee is easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a classic chocolate cake recipe with coffee or a twist like chocolate chip coffee cake, this version is rich, flavorful, and guaranteed to impress. Follow my simple steps to bake the perfect cake every time!
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Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Coffee Cake
- The perfect balance of chocolate and coffee flavors – The coffee enhances the chocolate without overpowering it, creating a deep, rich taste.
- Moist, tender texture – This chocolate coffee cake stays soft and fluffy thanks to the perfect blend of ingredients.
- Simple ingredients and easy step-by-step instructions – No complicated techniques, just a foolproof chocolate cake recipe with coffee that anyone can make!
What Does Adding Coffee to Chocolate Cake Do?
How coffee enhances the flavor of chocolate cake
Adding coffee to chocolate cake is a game-changer when it comes to flavor. Coffee, especially in its stronger forms like espresso or strongly brewed coffee, has a unique ability to enhance the rich, deep flavors of chocolate. While it doesn’t make the cake taste like coffee, the bitterness of the coffee balances the natural sweetness of the cake, making the chocolate flavor feel more intense and complex. The coffee essentially acts as a flavor booster, amplifying the chocolate notes, and adding depth to the overall taste. This combination creates a wonderfully balanced and indulgent dessert, where the chocolate shines through in a way that it wouldn’t without the coffee.
Best types of coffee to use for chocolate cake
When selecting coffee to incorporate into your chocolate cake, the strength and flavor profile of the coffee is crucial. For a bold and pronounced coffee flavor that complements the chocolate, it’s best to use strongly brewed coffee or espresso. The higher concentration of coffee in these options allows it to work effectively with the cake batter, enriching the chocolate without overwhelming the taste. Alternatively, you can also use instant coffee or coffee extract. Instant coffee is more convenient and still packs a punch when mixed into the batter, while coffee extract is concentrated and can deliver that coffee essence without the liquid. Either way, adding coffee to your chocolate cake recipe guarantees a more rich, moist, and flavorful result that truly elevates your baking!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
For the Chocolate Coffee Cake
- The role of each ingredient in creating the perfect texture – Ingredients like coffee, cocoa powder, and buttermilk work together to make the cake rich, moist, and flavorful.
- Possible swaps for dietary needs – Substitute dairy-free milk, gluten-free flour, or a natural sweetener to customize your chocolate coffee cake.
For the Coffee-Infused Frosting
- How to make a smooth, creamy chocolate coffee buttercream – Combining coffee with butter and cocoa powder creates a velvety frosting that complements the cake perfectly.
For the Chocolate Coffee Syrup (Optional but Delicious!)
- Why a syrup makes the cake extra moist – Brushing the layers with light chocolate coffee syrup enhances the flavor and keeps the cake soft for days.
Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make a Chocolate Coffee Cake
Preparing the Batter
- Mixing techniques for a soft, fluffy cake – Properly combining coffee, cocoa powder, and wet ingredients ensures a smooth, lump-free batter that bakes evenly.
Baking the Cake to Perfection
- How to check for doneness – Use the toothpick test or check for a slight spring when touching the center to ensure your chocolate coffee cake is perfectly baked.
Assembling & Frosting Your Cake
- Tips for an evenly layered cake – Level each layer and chill before frosting to create a stable, professional-looking cake.
- How to achieve a bakery-style finish – Use an offset spatula for smooth frosting and add decorative swirls for a beautiful presentation.
Storage & Freezing Tips
- Best ways to keep your cake fresh – Store your chocolate coffee cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
- How to freeze for later without losing flavor – Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and foil, then place them in a freezer bag. This keeps the cake moist and flavorful for up to 3 months. Simply thaw overnight in the fridge before serving!
Expert Tips for the Best Chocolate Coffee Cake
- Avoiding common baking mistakes – To prevent a dry or dense cake, make sure not to overmix the batter, and always measure your ingredients accurately.
- How to adjust sweetness and coffee intensity – If you prefer a sweeter cake, increase the sugar slightly. For a stronger coffee flavor, add a bit more brewed coffee or espresso to enhance the richness without overwhelming the chocolate.
FAQs About Chocolate Coffee Cake
- What Makes a Cake a Coffee Cake?
- The term “coffee cake” typically refers to cakes that are served alongside coffee, often with a crumbly topping or swirled filling. Chocolate coffee cake, however, specifically combines coffee with chocolate to create a rich flavor profile.
- Can You Add Cocoa Powder to the Coffee Cake?
- Yes! Cocoa powder adds a rich, chocolatey taste to the cake, deepening the flavor while maintaining a soft, moist texture. It gives the cake a more decadent feel.
- What Is the Difference Between a Buckle and a Coffee Cake?
- A buckle is a type of cake that includes fruit and has a more textured, crumbly topping, often resembling a streusel. In contrast, coffee cake is generally lighter, often without fruit, and made to pair well with coffee.
Chocolate Coffee Cake: How to Make the Perfect Homemade Cake
Course: Dessert / CakeCuisine: American, Bakery-styleDifficulty: Easy12
slices30
minutes30
minutes350
kcal1
hourThis homemade chocolate coffee cake recipe is one of my absolute favorites. It boasts a super moist crumb with a fudgy yet light texture that will quickly become your go-to chocolate coffee cake recipe. For an extra burst of flavor, top it with rich chocolate buttercream and a sprinkle of chocolate chips for triple the chocolate goodness. You can also make this cake as a sheet cake for easier serving. Check the recipe notes for more details!
Ingredients
Chocolate Coffee Cake
1 and 3/4 cups (219g) all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled)
3/4 cup (62g) unsweetened natural cocoa powder
1 and 3/4 cups (350g) granulated sugar
2 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons espresso powder (optional)
1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil (or canola oil or melted coconut oil)
2 large eggs, at room temperature
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
1 cup (240ml) buttermilk, at room temperature
1 cup (240ml) freshly brewed strong hot coffee (regular or decaf)
Chocolate Coffee Buttercream
1 and 1/4 cups (282g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
3 and 1/2 cups (420g) confectioners’ sugar
3/4 cup (65g) unsweetened cocoa powder (natural or dutch process)
3–5 Tablespoons (45-75ml) heavy cream (or half-and-half or milk), at room temperature
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Optional: Semi-sweet chocolate chips for decoration
Chocolate Coffee Syrup (Optional)
1/2 cup strong brewed coffee
1/4 cup sugar
1/4 cup cocoa powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions
- Prepare the Cake:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans, line them with parchment paper, and grease the paper to ensure easy removal of the cakes. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and optional espresso powder. In a separate bowl, combine the oil, eggs, and vanilla extract, mixing on medium-high speed until fully blended. Add the buttermilk and mix until smooth. Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture, then slowly add the hot coffee. Stir until the batter is fully combined (it will be thin). Evenly divide the batter between the prepared pans and bake for 23-26 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.
Remove the cakes onto a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare the Buttercream:
Start by beating the softened butter on medium speed for about 2 minutes, until it becomes creamy.
Slowly add in the powdered sugar, cocoa powder, heavy cream, salt, and vanilla extract. Mix on low speed for 30 seconds, then increase the speed to high and continue beating for another minute.
If the frosting seems too thin, add extra powdered sugar to thicken it. If it’s too thick, gradually add more cream to achieve your preferred consistency.
- Assemble the Cake:
If the cake layers are domed, use a serrated knife to level the tops.
Place one layer of cake on a serving plate, and spread a generous layer of chocolate coffee buttercream on top.
Place the second layer of cake and cover with remaining frosting. Optionally, decorate with chocolate chips for a finished look. - Make the Chocolate Coffee Syrup (Optional):
Combine strong brewed coffee, sugar, and cocoa powder in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir until dissolved and simmer for 2-3 minutes.
Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Drizzle the syrup over the cake layers before frosting for extra moisture and flavor.
- Chill and Serve:
Chill the assembled cake in the refrigerator for 30-60 minutes to set the frosting and make slicing easier.
Slice and enjoy your chocolate coffee cake at room temperature, or keep chilled for an extra decadent experience.
Notes
Make Ahead & Freezing Instructions:
You can prepare the cake layers in advance and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Bring them to room temperature before assembling.
Buttercream can be made 2-3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Bring it to room temperature before spreading on the cake.
Frosted cake freezes well for up to 3 months; just thaw overnight in the fridge.
Indulge in our delectable Chocolate Coffee Cake recipe! Experience the perfect blend of rich chocolate and aromatic coffee flavors with every bite. Gather your ingredients and start baking today to treat yourself and your loved ones!