Description
Espresso Cake, also known as Coffee Layer Cake, is a moist and rich dessert featuring layers of coffee-infused cake paired with creamy coffee frosting. Perfect for coffee lovers looking for a decadent treat.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon instant espresso powder
- 1 cup strong brewed coffee, cooled
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup buttermilk
- For the frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons instant espresso powder dissolved in 1 tablespoon hot water
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a separate large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Stir in instant espresso powder, brewed coffee, and vanilla extract.
- Alternately add flour mixture and buttermilk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with flour mixture. Mix until just combined.
- Divide batter evenly among prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool cakes in pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto wire racks to cool completely.
- For the frosting, beat butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, then mix in dissolved espresso and heavy cream until smooth.
- Assemble cake layers with frosting between and on top. Chill for 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Use high-quality espresso powder for best flavor.
- Can substitute brewed coffee with strong cold brew concentrate.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Add chocolate shavings or cocoa powder on top for extra decadence.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 40g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: espresso cake, coffee layer cake, coffee dessert, moist coffee cake, coffee frosting