Chocolate Espresso Layer Cake
Indulge in the ultimate dessert experience with this decadent Chocolate Espresso Layer Cake—a show-stopping treat that expertly combines rich, moist chocolate layers with the bold allure of espresso. Infused with freshly brewed hot espresso for a subtle coffee kick, this cake is elevated with a silky dark chocolate ganache and irresistibly creamy espresso buttercream frosting. Perfect for special occasions or as a centerpiece for any gathering, this masterpiece offers an elegant balance of bittersweet flavors and luscious textures. Garnish with chocolate shavings or espresso beans for an extra touch of sophistication, and savor the blend of chocolatey richness and smooth coffee undertones in every bite. Whether for a celebration or a sweet indulgence, this cake is a must-try for coffee and chocolate lovers alike!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 cups All-purpose flour
- 2 cups Granulated sugar
- 0.75 cup Cocoa powder (unsweetened)
- 2 teaspoons Baking powder
- 1.5 teaspoons Baking soda
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1 cup Buttermilk
- 0.5 cup Vegetable oil
- 2 pieces Large eggs
- 2 teaspoons Vanilla extract
- 1 cup Espresso (hot, freshly brewed)
- 0.5 cup Heavy cream
- 8 ounces Dark chocolate (finely chopped)
- 1 cup Unsalted butter (at room temperature)
- 4 cups Powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon Instant espresso powder
- 2 tablespoons Milk
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line three 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk to combine.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
Slowly pour the hot espresso into the batter, stirring gently until the batter is smooth and evenly combined. It will be thin; this is normal.
Divide the batter evenly among the three prepared cake pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Remove the cakes from the oven and allow them to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
To make the ganache, heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Pour the hot cream over the chopped dark chocolate in a medium bowl and let it sit for 5 minutes. Stir until smooth and glossy. Set aside to cool to room temperature.
To prepare the espresso buttercream, beat the butter in a large bowl using a hand or stand mixer until light and fluffy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, beating well between additions.
Dissolve the espresso powder in the milk and add it to the buttercream along with the vanilla extract. Beat until light and creamy. If the frosting is too thick, add an additional teaspoon of milk until desired consistency is reached.
To assemble the cake, place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a thin layer of ganache over the top, followed by a layer of espresso buttercream.
Repeat with the second and third layers, finishing with a final layer of buttercream frosting on the top and sides of the cake.
Decorate the cake as desired, using leftover ganache or buttercream. Optional: garnish with chocolate shavings, espresso beans, or cocoa powder dusting.
Refrigerate the cake for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the layers to set. Bring to room temperature before slicing and serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
9283 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 453.2 g | 581% | |
| Saturated Fat | 226.4 g | 1132% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 67.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 1038 mg | 346% | |
| Sodium | 5757 mg | 250% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 1331.4 g | 484% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 88.5 g | 316% | |
| Total Sugars | 996.6 g | ||
| Protein | 94.5 g | 189% | |
| Vitamin D | 8.4 mcg | 42% | |
| Calcium | 834 mg | 64% | |
| Iron | 65.3 mg | 363% | |
| Potassium | 5226 mg | 111% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
