Espresso Cake Dark Mocha

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Indulge in the rich flavors of our Espresso Cake Dark Mocha, a delightful blend of coffee and chocolate that is sure to please any dessert lover.

Emily

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-24T23:30:27.732Z

This Espresso Cake Dark Mocha is a perfect treat for coffee lovers. The combination of rich espresso and dark chocolate creates a decadent dessert that can be enjoyed any time of the year.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Rich coffee flavor that energizes your taste buds
  • Moist and tender cake with a velvety chocolate finish
  • Perfect for any celebration or as a daily treat

A Perfect Blend of Coffee and Chocolate

The Espresso Cake Dark Mocha is a celebration of two beloved flavors: coffee and chocolate. This cake is ideal for those who appreciate the complexity that espresso brings to desserts. The addition of brewed espresso elevates the cocoa notes, creating a deep, rich taste that is both invigorating and indulgent. Each bite offers a harmonious balance that coffee aficionados and chocolate lovers will adore.

Not only does this cake deliver on flavor, but it also provides a delightful texture. The use of moist ingredients like butter and eggs ensures that the cake remains tender and soft, making it a pleasure to eat. The velvety finish of the chocolate frosting complements the cake beautifully, inviting you to savor every slice.

Versatile for Any Occasion

Whether it's a birthday, holiday, or a simple afternoon tea, the Espresso Cake Dark Mocha is a versatile dessert that fits the bill. Its rich flavors make it a standout option for celebrations, while its easy preparation makes it suitable for casual gatherings as well. Impress your guests with a cake that looks as good as it tastes, and watch them come back for seconds.

This cake also makes for a wonderful everyday treat. Pair a slice with your morning coffee or enjoy it as an afternoon pick-me-up. The combination of caffeine and chocolate can provide the perfect boost to power through your day, turning any moment into a special occasion.

Tips for the Perfect Espresso Cake

To achieve the best flavor, use high-quality cocoa powder and freshly brewed espresso. The taste of your ingredients significantly impacts the final result, so choose products that you enjoy. If you’re not a fan of strong coffee flavors, consider reducing the amount of espresso slightly, but be aware that this may alter the cake's overall richness.

Allow the cakes to cool completely before frosting. This step is crucial to prevent the frosting from melting and sliding off. For an added touch, consider garnishing the cake with chocolate shavings or a dusting of cocoa powder. These finishing touches will enhance its visual appeal and add an extra layer of flavor.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create your delicious Espresso Cake Dark Mocha:

Cake Ingredients

  • 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup brewed espresso, cooled
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Frosting Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 2 tbsp brewed espresso
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Once you have all the ingredients, you are ready to start baking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a delectable Espresso Cake Dark Mocha:

Prepare the Cake Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Add the softened butter, eggs, espresso, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined and smooth.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Prepare the Frosting

While the cakes are cooling, prepare the frosting. In a bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and cocoa powder and mix until combined.

Add the brewed espresso and vanilla extract, then beat until smooth.

Assemble the Cake

Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of frosting on top, then place the second layer on top of it. Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting.

Serve and Enjoy

Slice the cake and serve it as a delightful dessert. Enjoy the rich flavors of espresso and chocolate!

Now that your cake is ready, gather your family and friends to enjoy this delightful treat!

Storage and Serving Suggestions

After baking, store your Espresso Cake Dark Mocha in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you want to keep it fresh for longer, consider freezing slices wrapped in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Thaw them at room temperature before serving to enjoy the cake at its best.

For serving, this cake pairs wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creaminess complements the rich flavors of the cake, creating a delightful contrast. You can also serve it alongside a fresh cup of espresso or cold brew coffee to enhance the coffee experience.

Customizations and Variations

Feel free to customize your Espresso Cake Dark Mocha to suit your personal preferences. Add nuts like walnuts or hazelnuts for a crunchy texture, or incorporate chocolate chips for an extra burst of chocolate flavor. If you're looking to make it a bit more decadent, consider filling the layers with chocolate ganache or a coffee-flavored mousse.

For a unique twist, try adding a splash of your favorite liqueur, such as Kahlúa or Baileys, to the frosting. This will not only deepen the flavors but also add a delightful adult touch that can elevate your dessert experience.

Secondary image

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use decaffeinated espresso?

Yes, decaffeinated espresso can be used for a caffeine-free option.

→ How should I store the cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze the cake?

Yes, you can freeze the cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and it will last for up to 2 months.

→ What can I substitute for eggs?

You can use applesauce or a flaxseed mixture as an egg substitute in this recipe.

Espresso Cake Dark Mocha

Indulge in the rich flavors of our Espresso Cake Dark Mocha, a delightful blend of coffee and chocolate that is sure to please any dessert lover.

Prep Time20 minutes
Cooking Duration30 minutes
Overall Time50 minutes

Created by: Emily

Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts

Skill Level: Intermediate

Final Quantity: 8 servings

What You'll Need

Cake Ingredients

  1. 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
  2. 1 cup granulated sugar
  3. 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  4. 1 tsp baking powder
  5. 1/2 tsp baking soda
  6. 1/4 tsp salt
  7. 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  8. 2 large eggs
  9. 1 cup brewed espresso, cooled
  10. 1 tsp vanilla extract

Frosting Ingredients

  1. 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  2. 2 cups powdered sugar
  3. 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  4. 2 tbsp brewed espresso
  5. 1 tsp vanilla extract

How-To Steps

Step 01

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add the softened butter, eggs, espresso, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined and smooth.

Step 02

Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 03

While the cakes are cooling, prepare the frosting. In a bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and cocoa powder and mix until combined. Add the brewed espresso and vanilla extract, then beat until smooth.

Step 04

Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of frosting on top, then place the second layer on top of it. Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting.

Step 05

Slice the cake and serve it as a delightful dessert. Enjoy the rich flavors of espresso and chocolate!

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 380 kcal
  • Total Fat: 26g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 195mg
  • Sodium: 85mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 24g
  • Protein: 6g