Mocha Cream Layer Cake

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Indulge in the rich and decadent flavors of this Mocha Cream Layer Cake, perfect for coffee lovers and special occasions.

Emily

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-01T22:02:30.229Z

This Mocha Cream Layer Cake is a delightful blend of rich chocolate and aromatic coffee flavors, layered with a smooth cream frosting. It's ideal for celebrations and will surely impress your guests!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh coffee notes
  • Creamy texture that melts in your mouth
  • Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence

The Perfect Blend of Coffee and Chocolate

This Mocha Cream Layer Cake is a delightful fusion of coffee and chocolate, crafted specifically for those who appreciate the rich and robust flavors of both. The cake's base is infused with brewed coffee, enhancing its chocolate profile and giving it a depth of flavor that transcends typical desserts. Each bite is a harmonious experience, where the bitterness of the coffee complements the sweetness of the chocolate, making it an ideal treat for coffee enthusiasts.

Not only does this cake taste fantastic, but it also serves as a stunning centerpiece for any occasion. Whether you're hosting a birthday party, an anniversary celebration, or simply indulging in a sweet treat after dinner, this cake is sure to impress your guests with its layered elegance and rich flavors. It’s a dessert that invites conversation and leaves lasting memories.

Creamy Frosting That Elevates the Cake

The cream frosting is the crowning glory of this Mocha Cream Layer Cake. Whipped to perfection, this light and airy frosting creates a delightful contrast to the dense cake layers. The addition of cocoa powder to the frosting not only enhances its chocolate flavor but also adds a beautiful visual appeal, making the cake irresistibly inviting.

This frosting is incredibly versatile. You can adjust the sweetness to your liking by modifying the amount of powdered sugar, or you can even experiment with flavored extracts to create a unique twist. The creamy texture is perfect for frosting, filling, or even serving on the side for those who want an extra indulgent experience.

Tips for Baking Success

To ensure your Mocha Cream Layer Cake turns out perfectly, it’s essential to measure your ingredients accurately. Use a kitchen scale for precision, especially with flour and sugar, which can vary in volume. Additionally, make sure your eggs and milk are at room temperature before baking; this helps in achieving a smooth batter and even baking.

Don't rush the cooling process. Allowing the cakes to cool completely in the pans before transferring them to a wire rack is crucial for maintaining their shape. If you frost the cakes while they’re still warm, the frosting can melt, resulting in a messy presentation. Patience is key, and the end result will be worth the wait!

Ingredients

For the Cake

  • 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
  • ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 ½ tsp baking powder
  • 1 ½ tsp baking soda
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • ½ cup vegetable oil
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup brewed coffee, cooled

For the Cream Frosting

  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 tbsp cocoa powder

Gather all your ingredients before you start for a smooth baking experience!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix well.

Add Wet Ingredients

Add eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.

Incorporate Coffee

Slowly stir in the cooled brewed coffee until the batter is smooth.

Bake the Cakes

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool the Cakes

Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Prepare the Frosting

In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and cocoa powder until soft peaks form.

Assemble the Cake

Place one cake layer on a serving platter, spread a layer of cream frosting on top, then add the second cake layer. Frost the top and sides of the cake.

Once assembled, refrigerate the cake for at least 30 minutes before serving to set the frosting.

Storing Your Mocha Cream Layer Cake

To keep your Mocha Cream Layer Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you live in a particularly warm climate, consider refrigerating it to prevent the frosting from melting.

For longer storage, you can freeze the cake. Wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe container. The cake can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before frosting or serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Mocha Cream Layer Cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to enhance the flavors and add a creamy contrast. A sprinkle of cocoa powder or chocolate shavings on top can add an extra touch of elegance.

For a more decadent twist, consider pairing each slice with a shot of espresso or a glass of cold brew coffee. The combination of the cake and a rich coffee beverage will elevate your dessert experience, making it even more satisfying.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use decaf coffee for this recipe?

Yes, you can use decaf coffee if you prefer to reduce your caffeine intake.

→ How can I store the leftover cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the cakes a day in advance and frost them just before serving.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You may use coconut cream or whipped topping as a substitute for heavy cream in the frosting.

Mocha Cream Layer Cake

Indulge in the rich and decadent flavors of this Mocha Cream Layer Cake, perfect for coffee lovers and special occasions.

Prep Time20 minutes
Cooking Duration30 minutes
Overall Time50 minutes

Created by: Emily

Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts

Skill Level: Intermediate

Final Quantity: 8 servings

What You'll Need

For the Cake

  1. 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
  2. 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
  3. ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  4. 1 ½ tsp baking powder
  5. 1 ½ tsp baking soda
  6. 1 tsp salt
  7. 2 large eggs
  8. 1 cup whole milk
  9. ½ cup vegetable oil
  10. 2 tsp vanilla extract
  11. 1 cup brewed coffee, cooled

For the Cream Frosting

  1. 1 cup heavy cream
  2. ½ cup powdered sugar
  3. 1 tsp vanilla extract
  4. 2 tbsp cocoa powder

How-To Steps

Step 01

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.

Step 02

In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix well.

Step 03

Add eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.

Step 04

Slowly stir in the cooled brewed coffee until the batter is smooth.

Step 05

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 06

Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 07

In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and cocoa powder until soft peaks form.

Step 08

Place one cake layer on a serving platter, spread a layer of cream frosting on top, then add the second cake layer. Frost the top and sides of the cake.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 380 kcal
  • Total Fat: 26g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 195mg
  • Sodium: 85mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 24g
  • Protein: 6g