Chocolate Cake With Coffee

Name: Chocolate Cake With Coffee
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar; ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 ½ tsp baking powder; 1 ½ tsp baking soda; 1 tsp salt; 2 large eggs; 1 cup whole milk; ½ cup vegetable oil; 2 tsp pure vanilla extract; 1 cup hot brewed coffee; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 3 ½ cups powdered sugar; ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; ¼ cup brewed coffee; 1 tsp vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Oven Cooking

I absolutely love baking, and this Chocolate Cake with Coffee is one of my favorite go-to recipes. The fusion of rich chocolate and coffee creates an irresistible combination that elevates the cake's flavor profile. It’s moist, decadent, and perfect for any occasion, whether it's a cozy afternoon treat or a special celebration. Plus, the aroma of coffee adds an extra depth that makes the whole kitchen smell divine. If you’re a chocolate lover like me, you’ll want this recipe in your collection!

Created by

Nerissa Caldwell

Last updated on 2026-02-01T19:33:37.395Z

When I first combined chocolate and coffee in this cake, I was amazed at how perfectly the flavors intertwined. I experimented with different ratios, and I found that a strong brewed coffee truly enhances the chocolate's richness without overpowering it. Each bite is an experience in itself, where the flavors dance harmoniously on your palate.

One tip I always share is to use freshly brewed coffee for the best flavor. It not only intensifies the chocolate but also adds a delightful aroma that lingers. Trust me, friends and family will rave about this cake for days!

Why You'll Love This Cake
Intense chocolate flavor complemented by a hint of coffee
Luxuriously moist and tender crumb
Perfect for any celebration or just a cozy night in

The Importance of Quality Ingredients

When it comes to baking a chocolate cake, the quality of your ingredients can significantly impact the final product. Utilize high-quality cocoa powder, as it enriches the cake with a rich chocolate flavor and deeper color. I recommend brands like Valrhona or Ghirardelli for a more intense taste. The eggs should be at room temperature to ensure easy incorporation with the other ingredients, leading to a smoother batter and fluffier texture. Fresh ingredients mean better taste and overall success in your baking endeavors.

Using whole milk instead of lower-fat alternatives like skim or 2% adds to the cake's tenderness and richness. The fat content in whole milk helps create a moist crumb, which is essential for a luxurious cake. If you need a dairy-free option, consider substituting with almond or oat milk, but be aware that this may slightly alter the moisture content and flavor. Always try to measure liquids using liquid measuring cups for accuracy to ensure your cake rises perfectly.

Mastering Cake Baking Techniques

To avoid a dense chocolate cake, it's essential to properly mix the batter. After combining the wet and dry ingredients, be careful not to overmix. Gently fold the batter until just combined, as excessive mixing can develop gluten and lead to a tougher crumb. Additionally, allow the hot coffee to slightly cool after brewing; this way, you’ll still incorporate it into the batter while avoiding any potential cooking of the eggs in the mixture.

Baking times may vary based on the oven's calibration and the material of your cake pans. Ensure to check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cakes; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. If you notice the edges browning faster, you can rotate the cakes halfway through baking for even results. Once out of the oven, let them cool in the pans to maintain structure before transferring them to a wire rack.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create your Chocolate Cake with Coffee:

Cake Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 ½ tsp baking powder
1 ½ tsp baking soda
1 tsp salt
2 large eggs
1 cup whole milk
½ cup vegetable oil
2 tsp pure vanilla extract
1 cup hot brewed coffee

Frosting Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
3 ½ cups powdered sugar
½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
¼ cup brewed coffee
1 tsp vanilla extract

Make sure everything is fresh for this delicious cake!

Instructions

Follow these steps closely for a perfect Chocolate Cake with Coffee:

Prepare the Oven and Pans

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, sift together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract.

Make the Cake Batter

Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry mixture, then slowly stir in the hot brewed coffee until the batter is smooth.

Bake the Cakes

Pour the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Frost

Once baked, allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Let them cool completely before frosting.

Prepare the Frosting

In a mixing bowl, cream the softened butter. Gradually add powdered sugar and cocoa powder, then stir in brewed coffee and vanilla extract until the frosting is light and fluffy.

Frost the Cake

Place one cake layer on a serving plate, spread icing on top, and add the second layer. Frost the top and sides of the cake as desired.

Enjoy your delicious Chocolate Cake with Coffee!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon to the batter or using dark chocolate for frosting.

Frosting Tips for Success

The richness of your chocolate frosting is key in balancing the flavors of the cake. Start by ensuring the butter is adequately softened but not melted; this allows for a perfectly creamy texture without any lumps. If your frosting appears too thick, add additional brewed coffee by the tablespoon to achieve your desired consistency. For a more intense chocolate flavor, using Dutch-processed cocoa powder in the frosting can elevate the taste even further.

When frosting the cake, use an offset spatula for an even spread and to create a smooth surface. Begin by applying a thin crumb coat around the entire cake; this locks in any loose crumbs, ensuring a neat finish. Chill the cake for about 15-20 minutes after this initial layer before applying the final thick coat of frosting. I find this step immensely helpful in creating a beautiful presentation and preventing any crumbs from mingling with the frosting.

Store and Serve Your Chocolate Cake

The cake can be stored at room temperature for up to three days if covered well to maintain moisture or in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you'd like to preserve the cake for longer, consider freezing it. Wrap the cooled cake layers tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and they can last for up to three months in the freezer. When ready to serve, let the cake defrost in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.

For serving, consider pairing this cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence. You can also garnish with chocolate shavings or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an elegant touch. For variations, feel free to add chocolate chips to the batter or nuts for a delightful crunch, or even a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the frosting for a sweet and salty contrast.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the cake layers a day in advance and store them in an airtight container.

→ Is there a substitute for coffee?

You can use hot water or milk, but the coffee enhances the chocolate flavor significantly.

→ Can I use a different frosting?

Yes! Feel free to use any frosting you prefer, such as cream cheese or vanilla buttercream.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.