Espresso Cake Dark Mocha

Name: Espresso Cake Dark Mocha
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs; 1 cup brewed espresso, cooled; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 cups powdered sugar; 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 2 tablespoons brewed espresso; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Indulge in the rich and bold flavors of our Espresso Cake Dark Mocha. Perfect for coffee lovers and dessert enthusiasts alike, this cake is a delightful way to enjoy your favorite brew.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-24T20:03:27.471Z

This Espresso Cake Dark Mocha is a perfect blend of coffee and chocolate flavors, making it an irresistible treat for any occasion. Whether you're serving it at a gathering or enjoying a slice with your morning coffee, this cake is sure to impress.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with bold espresso
Moist and fluffy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence

      

A Perfect Treat for Coffee Lovers

If you're a coffee aficionado, our Espresso Cake Dark Mocha is designed for you. This cake captures the essence of rich espresso, allowing you to enjoy your favorite beverage in dessert form. The combination of chocolate and coffee not only enhances the flavor profile but also creates a unique experience that transcends the ordinary cake. Each bite is a celebration of deep flavors that will leave you craving more.

This cake is not just about great taste; it also encapsulates the comforting aroma of freshly brewed espresso. The smell alone can evoke warm memories of coffee shops and cozy gatherings with friends. Pair it with your morning coffee or serve it as a delightful afternoon treat, and you’ll find it’s the perfect companion for any coffee lover's palate.

The Ideal Celebration Dessert

Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, or casual get-together, this Espresso Cake Dark Mocha is a showstopper. Its rich chocolate layers and creamy mocha frosting make it visually stunning and utterly irresistible. Guests will be impressed by both its appearance and flavor, making it a go-to choice for celebrations of all kinds.

The versatility of this cake allows it to shine in various settings. Dress it up with decorative toppings for special occasions or enjoy it in its simple glory with a light dusting of powdered sugar. No matter how you serve it, this cake is sure to become a favorite among your friends and family.

Tips for Perfecting Your Espresso Cake

To ensure your Espresso Cake Dark Mocha turns out perfectly, it's essential to use high-quality ingredients. Freshly brewed espresso will provide the best flavor, so consider using your favorite coffee beans for brewing. Additionally, make sure to measure your ingredients accurately to achieve that ideal moist and fluffy texture that everyone loves.

When it comes to frosting, let the cake cool completely before applying the mocha frosting. This step is crucial to avoid melting the frosting and ensures a beautiful finish. For added flair, consider garnishing with chocolate shavings or coffee beans on top to enhance the cake's aesthetic appeal.

Ingredients

For the Cake

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

For the Mocha Frosting

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
2 tablespoons brewed espresso
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Make sure to have all ingredients at room temperature for best results.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan.

Mix Dry Ingredients

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

Cream Butter and Sugar

In another bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the dry ingredients, mixing until well combined.

Add Eggs and Espresso

Add the eggs, brewed espresso, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and well incorporated.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Prepare the Frosting

While the cake is cooling, prepare the mocha frosting by beating the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, cocoa powder, brewed espresso, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Frost the Cake

Once the cake has cooled completely, spread the mocha frosting evenly on top and sides of the cake.

Serve and Enjoy

Slice the cake and serve it with a cup of coffee or espresso for a delightful treat.

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Serving Suggestions

This Espresso Cake Dark Mocha pairs beautifully with a variety of beverages. For an indulgent treat, serve it alongside a rich cappuccino or a glass of cold brew coffee. The combination of flavors makes for a delightful experience that elevates your dessert time.

If you're looking to add a touch of freshness, consider serving the cake with a side of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. This contrast in temperature and texture complements the dense cake perfectly, creating a harmonious dessert experience.

Storing Your Cake

To keep your Espresso Cake Dark Mocha fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It can last for up to three days, maintaining its moisture and flavor. If you want to keep it longer, consider refrigerating it, but be sure to bring it to room temperature before serving for the best taste.

For longer storage, you can freeze the cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, and it will be just as delicious as the day you baked it.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use decaf coffee for this recipe?

Absolutely! Decaf coffee can be used without affecting the overall flavor.

→ How should I store the cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cake a day in advance and frost it just before serving.

→ What can I substitute for eggs?

You can use unsweetened applesauce or a flaxseed meal mixture as an egg substitute.