Mocha Layer Cake with Espresso Frosting

The Mocha Layer Cake with Espresso Frosting is a dream come true for coffee and chocolate lovers alike. This cake brings together the rich, velvety flavor of cocoa with the bold kick of espresso, creating an indulgent dessert that’s perfectly balanced—not too sweet, not too bitter.

With soft, moist layers of chocolate cake and a luscious espresso buttercream frosting, this show-stopping dessert is perfect for birthdays, dinner parties, or any celebration where you want to impress.

Why I Love This Recipe

I absolutely love this recipe because it captures the magic of both coffee and chocolate in every bite. The combination is decadent yet sophisticated—the espresso enhances the depth of the chocolate without overpowering it.

The texture of the cake is light, moist, and fluffy, while the espresso frosting adds a creamy, luxurious finish.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This mocha layer cake is a must-try because it’s elegant, flavorful, and surprisingly simple to make. It’s perfect for coffee enthusiasts and anyone who appreciates a well-balanced dessert.

The espresso frosting makes it unique—it’s silky, aromatic, and pairs beautifully with the chocolate sponge.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 30 minutes
• Baking Time: 30–35 minutes
• Cooling & Frosting Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: Approximately 2 hours
• Servings: 10–12 slices
• Calories: Approximately 460 kcal per serving

Cuisine & Course

• Cuisine: American
• Course: Dessert / Celebration Cake

Ingredients

For the Mocha Cake:

• 1 ¾ cups (220g) all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups (300g) granulated sugar
• ¾ cup (75g) unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1 ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup (240ml) whole milk
• ½ cup (120ml) vegetable oil
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup (240ml) hot brewed espresso or strong coffee

For the Espresso Frosting:

• 1 cup (227g) unsalted butter, softened
• 3 cups (360g) powdered sugar
• 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 tbsp instant espresso powder dissolved in 2 tbsp hot water
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1–2 tbsp heavy cream or milk (for consistency)

Optional Garnish:

• Chocolate shavings, cocoa powder, or espresso beans

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Bake moist mocha cake layers.
2. Prepare rich espresso buttercream frosting.
3. Layer and frost the cake.
4. Decorate with chocolate shavings or espresso beans.

Step-by-Step Recipe Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes.
4. Stir in the hot espresso or coffee (the batter will be thin—this is normal).

Step 2: Bake the Cake

1. Divide batter evenly between the prepared pans.
2. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
3. Let cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 3: Make the Espresso Frosting

1. In a large bowl, beat softened butter until creamy (about 2–3 minutes).
2. Add powdered sugar and cocoa powder gradually, beating on low speed until combined.
3. Pour in dissolved espresso, vanilla, and 1 tablespoon of cream. Beat on high speed for 2–3 minutes until light and fluffy.
4. Add more cream if needed for a smoother consistency.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

1. Place one cake layer on a serving plate or stand.
2. Spread a thick layer of espresso frosting evenly on top.
3. Add the second cake layer and frost the top and sides.
4. Smooth with a spatula or create decorative swirls using the back of a spoon.

Step 5: Decorate

1. Sprinkle with chocolate shavings or dust with cocoa powder.
2. Optionally, top with whole espresso beans for a café-style touch.

How to Serve

Serve slices slightly chilled or at room temperature with a hot cup of coffee or a glass of milk. For a dessert table, cut into smaller squares or wedges for elegant serving portions.

Additional Recipe Tips

• Use freshly brewed espresso for the richest flavor.
• Don’t overbake—check for doneness at 30 minutes to ensure a moist crumb.
• For extra depth, add 1 tablespoon of coffee liqueur (like Kahlúa) to the frosting.
• Chill the cake for 30 minutes before slicing for cleaner cuts.

Variations

• Chocolate Ganache Drizzle: Pour warm chocolate ganache over the top for a glossy finish.
• Mocha Layer Cupcakes: Use the same batter to make cupcakes; bake for 18–20 minutes.
• Vegan Version: Use plant-based milk, vegan butter, and flaxseed eggs.
• Mocha Almond Cake: Add ½ teaspoon almond extract to the frosting for a nutty twist.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for up to 5 days.
• Freezing Cake Layers: Wrap unfrosted layers tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before frosting.
• Freezing Frosted Cake: Freeze slices individually; thaw in the fridge before serving.

Special Equipment Needed

• Two 8-inch round cake pans
• Electric mixer or stand mixer
• Offset spatula or cake smoother
• Parchment paper
• Cooling rack

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I use instant coffee instead of espresso?
Yes! Use 2 teaspoons of instant coffee dissolved in 1 cup hot water for the cake and 1 tablespoon for the frosting.

Q2: How do I make the cake extra moist?
Adding a spoonful of sour cream or yogurt to the batter enhances moisture and texture.

Q3: Can I turn this into a 3-layer cake?
Absolutely. Divide the batter into three 6-inch pans and reduce baking time slightly.

Q4: Can I make the frosting ahead of time?
Yes, refrigerate it for up to 3 days and re-whip before using.

Q5: What pairs best with this cake?
Serve it with whipped cream, chocolate-covered espresso beans, or a shot of espresso for a bold finish.

Conclusion

The Mocha Layer Cake with Espresso Frosting is a masterpiece of flavor and texture — rich chocolate cake meets silky coffee-infused frosting in a dessert that’s both elegant and indulgent. Perfect for birthdays, dinner parties, or just satisfying your coffee cravings, this cake is guaranteed to leave a lasting impression. Every bite is a perfect harmony of sweetness, bitterness, and creamy decadence — the ultimate treat for any true dessert lover.