Description
Bold, rich, and indulgent—this Chocolate Espresso Cake is the ultimate dessert for any chocolate lover. Moist chocolate layers are elevated with a subtle kick of espresso, making every bite intensely satisfying. Frosted with a luscious chocolate espresso buttercream, this cake is a bakery-worthy showstopper that’s surprisingly easy to make. Whether you’re looking for easy dinner party desserts, birthday cake ideas, or a quick celebration cake that delivers major flavor, this recipe has you covered. It’s a standout among dessert ideas and perfect for those who love easy recipes with gourmet results.
Ingredients
1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
2 cups granulated sugar
¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon instant espresso powder
2 large eggs
1 cup buttermilk
½ cup vegetable oil
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup hot water
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
3 ½ cups powdered sugar
½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
3–4 tablespoons brewed espresso or strong coffee
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line three 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and espresso powder.
3. In a separate bowl, combine eggs, buttermilk, oil, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
4. Add the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and mix gently. Gradually pour in the hot water while stirring. The batter will be thin.
5. Divide the batter evenly into the prepared pans and bake for 30–35 minutes. Check doneness with a toothpick.
6. Let the cakes cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
7. For the frosting, beat softened butter until creamy. Slowly add powdered sugar and cocoa powder, then blend in espresso and vanilla until smooth and fluffy.
8. Assemble the cake by layering frosting between cooled cake layers. Frost the top and sides generously.
9. Decorate with piped frosting or chocolate shavings, if desired.
10. Chill the cake slightly before slicing for clean, neat layers.
Notes
Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results.
Sift cocoa and powdered sugar for a smooth, clump-free frosting.
Let cake layers cool completely before frosting to avoid melting or sliding.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 45g
- Sodium: 310mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: chocolate cake, espresso cake, coffee dessert, easy celebration cake, chocolate layer cake