Introduction
This rich and decadent Espresso Coffee Layer Cake is a dream for coffee lovers. With layers of moist espresso-infused cake and luscious coffee buttercream frosting, this dessert is perfect for special occasions or when you need a delightful pick-me-up.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
– 250g all-purpose flour
– 200g granulated sugar
– 100g brown sugar
– 1 tsp baking powder
– ½ tsp baking soda
– ½ tsp salt
– 3 large eggs
– 120ml whole milk
– 120ml strong brewed espresso, cooled
– 120g unsalted butter, melted
– 2 tsp vanilla extract
For the Coffee Buttercream:
– 200g unsalted butter, softened
– 350g powdered sugar
– 2 tbsp strong brewed espresso, cooled
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– ¼ tsp salt
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 8-10 servings
Directions
1. Preheat the oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease and line two 8-inch cake pans with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk eggs, milk, espresso, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until combined. Do not overmix.
5. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. For the buttercream, beat softened butter until creamy, then gradually add powdered sugar, beating until fluffy.
9. Mix in the brewed espresso, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
10. Once the cakes are fully cooled, spread buttercream over one layer, place the second layer on top, and frost the entire cake.
11. Optionally, decorate with chocolate shavings or a sprinkle of espresso powder.
12. Slice and enjoy!
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Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease and line two 8-inch cake pans with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, cooled strong brewed espresso, melted unsalted butter, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.
Step 5: Divide the Batter
Evenly divide the batter between the prepared cake pans.
Step 6: Bake the Cakes
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean when the cakes are done.
Step 7: Cool the Cakes
Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes. After this, transfer the cakes to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 8: Prepare the Buttercream
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, continuing to beat until fluffy.
Step 9: Incorporate Flavor
Mix in the cooled brewed espresso, vanilla extract, and salt. Beat until the buttercream is smooth and well combined.
Step 10: Assemble the Cake
Once the cakes are completely cooled, spread a layer of buttercream over the top of one cake layer. Place the second cake layer on top and frost the entire cake with the remaining buttercream.
Step 11: Decorate the Cake
Optionally, decorate the cake with chocolate shavings or a sprinkle of espresso powder for an extra touch of elegance.
Step 12: Serve
Slice the cake into portions and enjoy your delicious Espresso Coffee Layer Cake!
Notes
Storage Instructions
The cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Espresso Tips
For the best flavor, use freshly brewed strong espresso. You can also adjust the amount of espresso in the cake or buttercream to suit your taste.
Baking Tip
Ensure that your ingredients are at room temperature for optimal mixing and baking results.
Serving Suggestions
This cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.
Cook Techniques
Measuring Ingredients Accurately
Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements, especially for flour and sugar. Spoon flour into a measuring cup and level off to avoid packing it down.
Whisking
When combining dry ingredients, whisk them thoroughly to ensure even distribution of the baking powder and baking soda. This helps prevent uneven rising in the cake.
Mixing Batter
Mix wet and dry ingredients until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake, so stop as soon as no dry flour is visible.
Baking Evenly
Place cake pans in the center of the oven for even heat distribution. Rotate pans halfway through baking for consistent results.
Cooling Cakes
Let the cakes cool in the pans for a short time before transferring to a wire rack. This prevents them from sticking to the pan and helps maintain their structure.
Making Buttercream
Beat softened butter until light and fluffy before adding powdered sugar. This creates a creamy texture. Add the brewed espresso gradually to avoid a soupy consistency.
FAQ
Can I use instant coffee instead of brewed espresso?
Yes, you can use instant coffee mixed with hot water as a substitute for brewed espresso, but the flavor may differ slightly.
How do I store leftover cake?
Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
Can I freeze the cake?
Yes, you can freeze the cake layers. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months. Thaw them before frosting.
What can I use instead of eggs?
You can use flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) or applesauce (1/4 cup per egg) as egg substitutes.
How do I make the buttercream less sweet?
To reduce sweetness, you can add a bit of unsweetened cocoa powder to balance the flavor, or use less powdered sugar and increase the espresso for flavor.
Conclusion
Indulging in this Espresso Coffee Layer Cake is an experience that delights the senses, especially for coffee enthusiasts. Its moist layers and rich coffee buttercream frosting make it a sumptuous treat for any occasion. Whether celebrating a birthday or simply pampering yourself, this cake is bound to impress and satisfy your sweet cravings.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Mocha Chocolate Cake
Combine the flavors of espresso and rich chocolate by adding cocoa powder to the cake batter and pairing it with a chocolate ganache frosting.
Caramel Latte Cake
Drizzle caramel sauce over the coffee buttercream for an added layer of sweetness, creating a delightful caramel latte flavor.
Coffee and Walnut Cake
Incorporate chopped walnuts into the cake batter for a nutty crunch that complements the rich coffee flavor.
Espresso Tiramisu
Turn the classic tiramisu into a layered espresso delight by alternating coffee-soaked ladyfingers with espresso-infused mascarpone cream.
Coffee Hazelnut Cake
Add ground hazelnuts to the cake batter and use hazelnut buttercream for a delicious nutty twist that pairs beautifully with coffee.
Tiramisu Cupcakes
Transform the Espresso Coffee Layer Cake into individual servings by making cupcakes with espresso-flavored batter and layering with mascarpone frosting.
Vanilla Bean Coffee Cake
Mix vanilla bean seeds into the batter for a fragrant touch that enhances the coffee experience without overpowering it.