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: 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar; 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder; 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 large eggs; 1 cup whole milk; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 cup boiling water; 1/2 cup brewed coffee (or espresso); 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 3 cups powdered sugar; 1/3 cup whole milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Homemade Baking Favorites

I absolutely adore baking, especially when it comes to creating rich and decadent treats like this Chocolate Cake with Coffee. The combination of chocolate and coffee not only enhances the cake’s depth of flavor but also gives it a wonderful aroma that fills the kitchen. Each bite of this cake offers a velvety texture that melts beautifully on the tongue, making it a perfect dessert for special occasions or a cozy night in. Join me in mastering this delectable recipe that never fails to impress family and friends!

Created by

June Weatherby

Last updated on 2026-02-01T23:53:35.644Z

When I first experimented with adding coffee to chocolate cake, I was amazed at how it transformed the flavor profile. The bitterness of the coffee beautifully complements the sweetness of the chocolate, creating a balanced taste that’s simply irresistible. I also recommend using brewed espresso for an even more pronounced flavor, as it deepens the cake's richness.

Another tip I discovered during my baking journeys is to let the cake cool completely before frosting it. This will ensure that the frosting doesn’t melt off and allows the chocolate to set appropriately, ensuring a stunning presentation that will wow your guests!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich chocolate flavor paired with a hint of coffee sweetness
Moist, fluffy texture that lingers in your mouth
Perfect for any celebration or a sweet treat to enjoy at home

Understanding the Ingredients

Each ingredient in this Chocolate Cake with Coffee plays a crucial role in creating the perfect texture and flavor. The unsweetened cocoa powder not only adds rich chocolate flavor but also contributes to the cake's moistness. Using high-quality cocoa can make a significant difference in taste. In fact, the cocoa you choose can enhance or dull the flavor profile, so it's worth investing in a better brand if you desire a more intense chocolate presence.

Eggs are essential in this recipe, acting as a binding agent that helps structure the cake. They provide moisture and richness. If you're looking for a vegan option, you can replace the eggs with flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water = 1 egg). This substitution will still help bind the ingredients together while maintaining the cake's fluffy texture.

Perfecting Your Baking Technique

When it comes to mixing the batter, it’s important not to overmix after adding the wet ingredients. Stir until just combined; this helps ensure that your cake remains light and airy rather than dense. Overmixing can develop gluten too much, resulting in a tough texture. It’s a fine balance, but with practice, you’ll learn to recognize when the batter is just right.

Baking times can vary based on your oven, so I recommend checking for doneness a few minutes before the suggested baking time. Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached. If it comes out wet, bake for an additional 3-5 minutes, but be careful not to dry it out – you want that delightful moist texture.

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Cake

1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
2 large eggs
1 cup whole milk
1/2 cup vegetable oil
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup boiling water
1/2 cup brewed coffee (or espresso)

For the Frosting

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
3 cups powdered sugar
1/3 cup whole milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix Dry Ingredients

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

Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, beat the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract until well combined.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.

Add Coffee

Stir in the boiling water and brewed coffee until the batter is smooth. The batter will be thin.

Bake the Cakes

Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans and bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Cool the Cakes

Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Prepare the Frosting

In a medium bowl, beat together the softened butter and cocoa until well blended. Gradually add the powdered sugar and milk, beating until smooth.

Frost the Cake

Once the cakes are completely cool, spread frosting on top of one layer, place the second layer on top, and frost the top and sides of the cake.

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding some coffee liqueur to the frosting or serving a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. This cake also freezes well, so you can make it ahead of time for an upcoming event!

Frosting Tips

When preparing the frosting, be sure to cream the softened butter and cocoa until they are light and fluffy before adding the sugar. This will help incorporate air into the frosting, resulting in a lighter texture. If your frosting turns out too thick, add a splash more milk until you reach your desired consistency. However, add it incrementally to avoid making it too runny.

For a unique twist on the basic frosting, consider adding a pinch of espresso powder to intensify the coffee flavor. Just be cautious with the amount; a little goes a long way. This adjustment not only enhances the chocolate flavors but also adds depth to the overall cake experience, making it even more indulgent.

Serving and Storage Suggestions

This Chocolate Cake with Coffee is best served at room temperature, allowing the flavors to shine. You can serve it plain or garnished with chocolate shavings or a dollop of whipped cream for an added touch of elegance. If you're feeling adventurous, fresh berries on the side can also complement the chocolate and coffee flavors beautifully.

To store any leftover cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in an airtight container. It can be kept at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for about a week. If you want to keep it longer, this cake freezes well. Just slice it, wrap each piece in plastic wrap, and store them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy again.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of flour?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour, but the texture may vary.

→ Is it possible to make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the cakes a day ahead and store them wrapped in plastic in the refrigerator.

→ Can I use instant coffee instead of brewed coffee?

Yes, but brewed coffee adds a richer flavor to the cake. If using instant, dissolve it in hot water as per package instructions.

→ What can I do if my cake turns out dry?

Ensure you don't over-mix the batter and avoid overbaking. You can also brush the cake layers with simple syrup before frosting.