Coffee Chocolate Cake
This Coffee Chocolate Cake is simply irresistible! With three layers of moist chocolate cake paired with rich coffee buttercream, it’s perfect for any celebration or just a special treat. The combination of chocolate and coffee creates an indulgent flavor that will delight dessert lovers. Whether it’s a birthday, holiday, or a cozy gathering, this cake is sure to impress your guests. Let’s dive into the details of this amazing recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Decadent Flavor: The blend of coffee and chocolate creates a unique taste that stands out.
- Moist Texture: This cake stays incredibly moist thanks to the sour cream and vegetable oil.
- Versatile Occasion: Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any time you crave something sweet.
- Easy to Follow: Step-by-step instructions make it simple for bakers of all levels to enjoy.
- Stunning Presentation: Three beautiful layers topped with smooth buttercream make it a showstopper.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking your Coffee Chocolate Cake, gather your tools. Having everything ready will ensure a smooth process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Sifter
- Spatula
- Cake pans (round)
- Cooling rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Electric mixer: This tool helps achieve a fluffy buttercream and perfectly mixed batter quickly and easily.
- Sifter: Using a sifter ensures your dry ingredients are lump-free, resulting in a smoother cake texture.
Ingredients
This is the best Coffee Chocolate Cake ever! Three layers of incredibly moist chocolate cake sandwiched together with smooth coffee buttercream that will send you straight to dessert paradise.
For the Cake
- 360 g black coffee (for instant coffee use 2 teaspoons of instant coffee)
- 360 g all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 300 g granulated sugar
- 150 g dark brown sugar
- 75 g unsweetened Dutch cocoa powder
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1 1/2 tsp salt
- 165 g vegetable oil
- 270 g sour cream 14-18% (room temperature)
- 3 large eggs (room temperature)
- 3 tsp vanilla extract
For the Buttercream
- 400 g butter (room temperature)
- 660 g powdered sugar
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2-2 1/2 tbsp black coffee (cooled down to room temperature)
- 1 tbsp instant espresso powder (optional, for more intense coffee flavor)
How to Make Coffee Chocolate Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three round cake pans. This ensures easy removal after baking.
Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl:
1. Sift together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
2. Set aside.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In another large bowl:
1. Beat together the granulated sugar, dark brown sugar, and vegetable oil until well combined.
2. Add eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition.
3. Stir in sour cream, black coffee, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Step 4: Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients:
1. Mix on low speed until just combined; do not overmix.
2. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans.
Step 5: Bake the Cakes
Place in preheated oven:
– Bake for approximately 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
– Allow cakes to cool in pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to cooling racks.
Step 6: Prepare the Buttercream
While cakes cool:
1. In a large bowl, beat softened butter until creamy.
2. Gradually add powdered sugar; mix until fluffy.
3. Add cooled black coffee and vanilla extract; mix until well combined.
Step 7: Assemble the Cake
Once cakes are completely cooled:
1. Place one layer on a serving plate; spread a generous amount of buttercream on top.
2. Repeat with second layer before placing third layer on top.
3. Frost the top and sides with remaining buttercream.
Now your stunning Coffee Chocolate Cake is ready to serve! Enjoy every slice of this delightful dessert!
How to Serve Coffee Chocolate Cake
Serving your Coffee Chocolate Cake can elevate the entire dessert experience. Whether it’s for a special occasion or a casual gathering, here are some delightful ways to enjoy this cake.
With Fresh Berries
- Fresh strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries add a burst of flavor and color. Their tartness contrasts beautifully with the rich chocolate.
A Scoop of Ice Cream
- Pairing a slice of cake with vanilla or coffee ice cream creates a creamy texture that complements the cake’s moistness.
Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce
- A generous drizzle of warm chocolate sauce enhances the cake’s chocolate flavor and adds extra indulgence.
Topped with Whipped Cream
- Light and fluffy whipped cream adds a refreshing touch. It balances the richness of the cake perfectly.
Served with Espresso
- A small cup of espresso alongside your slice intensifies the coffee notes in the cake, making each bite more satisfying.
With Nuts on Top
- Sprinkle chopped nuts like hazelnuts or almonds for added crunch and an earthy flavor that pairs well with chocolate.

How to Perfect Coffee Chocolate Cake
To achieve the best results with your Coffee Chocolate Cake, consider these expert tips:
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Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensuring that eggs, sour cream, and butter are at room temperature will create a smoother batter and better texture.
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Measure Flour Correctly: Avoid packing flour into your measuring cup. Use the spoon-and-level method for accuracy, which leads to a lighter cake.
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Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake, while gentle mixing ensures a light and airy texture.
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Cool Layers Properly: Allow the cake layers to cool completely before frosting. This prevents melting and creates cleaner slices when serving.
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Adjust Coffee Strength: For a stronger coffee flavor, increase the amount of instant espresso powder. Just be careful not to overpower the chocolate.
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Store Correctly: Keep any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Best Side Dishes for Coffee Chocolate Cake
Pairing side dishes with your Coffee Chocolate Cake can enhance its flavors even further. Here are some fantastic options:
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cake.
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Chocolate Mousse: This rich dessert echoes the chocolate theme and offers an elegant touch.
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Cheese Platter: Select mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese for a savory balance against the sweet flavors.
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Coffee Flavored Pudding: Enhance the coffee experience by serving pudding made with similar flavors.
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Pecan Pie Bars: These nutty treats add texture and complement both coffee and chocolate nicely.
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Mini Cheesecakes: Their creamy consistency will delight any dessert lover while keeping things interesting.
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Caramel Sauce Dip: Pair apple slices or pretzels with caramel sauce for a delightful sweet-and-salty contrast.
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Matcha Green Tea Cookies: These cookies provide an earthy flavor that pairs well with both coffee and chocolate notes in your cake.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking a Coffee Chocolate Cake can be tricky, but avoiding common mistakes can help ensure your cake turns out perfectly.
- Ignoring ingredient temperatures: Using cold eggs or sour cream can lead to a dense texture. Always bring your ingredients to room temperature before mixing.
- Overmixing the batter: This can result in a tough cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined for a light, fluffy texture.
- Not measuring accurately: Baking is a science. Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements to ensure consistent results.
- Underbaking the cake: A gooey center can ruin your dessert. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick; it should come out clean or with a few crumbs.
- Skipping the cooling time: Removing the cake from pans too soon can cause it to break apart. Let it cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Ensure the cake is completely cooled before covering.
Freezing Coffee Chocolate Cake
- Wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil for up to 3 months.
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before frosting.
Reheating Coffee Chocolate Cake
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Warm slices on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 15-20 seconds until warm.
- Stovetop: Place slices in a covered skillet over low heat, warming gently for about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes this Coffee Chocolate Cake so moist?
The combination of sour cream and vegetable oil adds moisture while keeping the cake tender, ensuring every bite is deliciously rich.
Can I use instant coffee instead of brewed coffee?
Yes! You can replace brewed coffee with instant coffee by dissolving 2 teaspoons in hot water, making it an easy alternative.
How can I customize my Coffee Chocolate Cake?
Consider adding chocolate chips or nuts to the batter for extra texture. You could also experiment with different frostings like mocha or vanilla buttercream.
Can I make this Coffee Chocolate Cake gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend. Make sure other ingredients are also gluten-free.
How do I know when my cake is done baking?
Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with only a few crumbs, your cake is ready!
Final Thoughts
This Coffee Chocolate Cake is not just an indulgent treat but also versatile enough for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating or simply enjoying dessert at home, its rich flavor and moist layers will surely satisfy your cravings. Feel free to customize with different flavors or toppings!

Coffee Chocolate Cake
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful layers of this Coffee Chocolate Cake, a perfect blend of rich chocolate and robust coffee flavors. With three moist layers of chocolate cake enveloped in velvety coffee buttercream, this cake is an exquisite treat for any occasion—from birthdays to cozy evenings at home. Its decadent taste and elegant presentation will surely impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with fresh berries or a scoop of ice cream, this cake promises a delightful dessert experience that you won’t soon forget.
Ingredients
- 360 g black coffee (or 2 teaspoons instant coffee)
- 360 g all-purpose flour
- 300 g granulated sugar
- 150 g dark brown sugar
- 75 g unsweetened Dutch cocoa powder
- 165 g vegetable oil
- 270 g sour cream (room temperature)
- 3 large eggs (room temperature)
- 400 g butter (room temperature)
- 660 g powdered sugar
- 2–2.5 tbsp cooled black coffee
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1 1/2 tsp salt
- 3 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three round cake pans.
- Sift together flour, cornstarch, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a mixing bowl.
- In another bowl, beat granulated sugar, dark brown sugar, and vegetable oil until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, followed by sour cream, black coffee, and vanilla extract.
- Gradually mix dry ingredients into wet ingredients until just combined. Divide batter among prepared pans.
- Bake for approximately 30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Allow cakes to cool before frosting with coffee buttercream.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 35g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 40mg