If you’re craving a dessert that perfectly balances the rich depth of coffee and the irresistible allure of chocolate, this Chocolate Coffee Cake Recipe is exactly what you need. It brings together tender crumb, a luscious chocolate coffee-infused batter, and an optional sweet glaze that adds a glossy finish. Whether you’re serving it at brunch or as a comforting treat any time of day, this cake is straightforward to make and absolutely satisfying. You’ll find that every bite offers a harmonious blend of flavors that’s simply unforgettable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, familiar ingredients is the key to achieving the wonderful taste and texture in this cake. Each component plays an important role, from the cocoa powder lending deep chocolate notes to the brewed coffee enhancing a subtle mocha essence, creating a beautifully moist cake that’s sure to delight.
- All-purpose flour (1 3/4 cups): Provides the perfect structure and crumb for the cake.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder (3/4 cup): Gives the cake a rich chocolate flavor and dark color.
- Baking powder (1 1/2 teaspoons): Helps the cake rise and become light.
- Baking soda (1/2 teaspoon): Works with the acidic sour cream to tenderize the crumb.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and enhances all other flavors.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, softened): Adds richness and moisture.
- Granulated sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the batter for a perfectly balanced taste.
- Large eggs (2): Bind the ingredients and help with the cake’s texture.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances the cake’s flavor with a warm aroma.
- Sour cream (1 cup): Adds tanginess and moistness for a tender crumb.
- Brewed coffee (1/2 cup, cooled): Imparts a subtle mocha flavor that complements the chocolate beautifully.
- Brown sugar (1/4 cup): Sweetens and deepens flavor in the crumb topping.
- Cinnamon (1/2 teaspoon, optional): Adds a gentle warmth to the crumb topping.
- Powdered sugar (1/2 cup, optional for glaze): Sweetens and smooths the glaze finish.
How to Make Chocolate Coffee Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round or square baking pan thoroughly to ensure your cake comes out effortlessly once baked. Setting up early helps you maintain the flow and prevents any last-minute scramble.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures that all the leavening agents and flavors are evenly distributed throughout your cake for consistent rising and taste.
Step 3: Beat Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture turns light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it incorporates air into the batter, leading to a tender and airy cake.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Next, add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then stir in the vanilla extract. These ingredients help bind the batter and add richness and fragrance to your cake.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients in three additions. Alternate these with the sour cream and cooled brewed coffee, mixing gently until just combined. This technique keeps the batter smooth and prevents overmixing, which can make the cake tough.
Step 6: Prepare the Crumb Topping
For the crumb topping, combine flour, brown sugar, cocoa powder, and cinnamon (if using). Cut the cold, cubed butter into this mixture using a fork or pastry cutter until it forms crumbly clumps. This topping creates a delightful crunch contrasting the moist cake base.
Step 7: Bake the Cake
Pour the cake batter into the greased pan, smoothing out the top. Evenly sprinkle the crumb topping over the batter. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan before any further handling.
Step 8: Add the Optional Glaze
If you want to add a glossy, sweet finish, whisk powdered sugar with 1 to 2 tablespoons of brewed coffee until smooth. Drizzle this over the cooled cake. This glaze enhances the mocha notes and adds a lovely sheen to your dessert.
How to Serve Chocolate Coffee Cake Recipe
Garnishes
A simple dusting of powdered sugar, a few chocolate shavings, or a sprinkle of cocoa powder can elevate the look of your chocolate coffee cake. Fresh berries make a fantastic, slightly tart contrast too, adding a pop of color and refreshing brightness.
Side Dishes
Serve this moist cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence. A hot cup of coffee or a creamy latte alongside truly complements the cake’s coffee-infused flavor, making it perfect for brunch or dessert.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming presentation, cut the cake into small squares or triangles and arrange them on a decorative platter. Layer slices between parchment paper for a classy boxed gift, or serve warm with a drizzle of chocolate syrup for that café-style treat right at home.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Chocolate Coffee Cake Recipe keeps well at room temperature for up to three days if tightly covered. For longer freshness, wrap it in plastic wrap or keep in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to a week without losing moistness or flavor.
Freezing
You can freeze the cake for up to three months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to protect it from freezer burn. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and bring it to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Reheating
To enjoy the cake warm, gently reheat slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for about 10 minutes. This revives the cake’s softness and enhances the coffee and chocolate aromas.
FAQs
Can I use instant coffee instead of brewed coffee in the Chocolate Coffee Cake Recipe?
Absolutely! Instant coffee dissolved in a small amount of hot water works just as well and can intensify the coffee flavor without adding extra liquid. Just make sure to let it cool before mixing it into the batter.
Is it possible to substitute the sour cream in this recipe?
Yes, you can swap sour cream with plain Greek yogurt or buttermilk in equal amounts. These alternatives will still provide that lovely moisture and slight tang needed for the cake’s tender crumb.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Certainly! Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that contains xanthan gum to replace the regular flour 1:1. Keep an eye on the texture and moisture, as some gluten-free flours absorb liquid differently, but the flavor remains delicious.
How do I know when the cake is fully baked?
Insert a toothpick or cake tester into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the cake is done. Additionally, the top should look set and spring back lightly when pressed.
Can I skip the crumb topping or glaze in this Chocolate Coffee Cake Recipe?
Of course! The crumb topping adds wonderful texture, and the glaze boosts sweetness and sheen, but the cake on its own is moist, flavorful, and satisfying. Feel free to customize based on your preferences or available ingredients.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about this Chocolate Coffee Cake Recipe that makes each slice a little celebration. Whether you’re sharing it over morning coffee with friends or enjoying a quiet moment with dessert, this cake’s rich chocolate and comforting coffee notes warmly embrace anyone lucky enough to taste it. I promise, once you try baking this, it will become one of your go-to favorites for any occasion!
Print
Chocolate Coffee Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8–10 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert, Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Chocolate Coffee Cake is a rich and moist dessert perfect for breakfast or brunch, featuring a tender cocoa-infused cake, a crumbly cocoa cinnamon topping, and an optional coffee glaze for an extra mocha kick. Combining the flavors of coffee and chocolate, this cake offers a decadent treat with a wonderful crumbly texture sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup brewed coffee, cooled
For the Crumb Topping:
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cold and cubed
For the Glaze (optional):
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1–2 tablespoons brewed coffee
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round or square baking pan to ensure the cake does not stick during baking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until evenly combined.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, creating a smooth base for the cake batter.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract to infuse the batter with flavor.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture gradually in three additions, alternating with sour cream and brewed coffee. Mix each addition just until combined to keep the batter tender and prevent overmixing.
- Pour Batter and Smooth: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top evenly using a spatula.
- Prepare Crumb Topping: In a separate bowl, mix the flour, brown sugar, cocoa powder, and cinnamon (if using). Cut in the cold cubed butter using a fork or pastry cutter until the mixture becomes crumbly. Evenly sprinkle this topping over the batter in the pan.
- Bake the Cake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35–40 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when the cake is done.
- Cool the Cake: Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before removing or glazing.
- Prepare and Add Glaze (optional): Whisk together the powdered sugar and brewed coffee until smooth to make the glaze. Drizzle it over the cooled cake for extra sweetness and coffee flavor.
Notes
- Use espresso instead of regular brewed coffee to intensify the coffee flavor.
- The cake can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- For longer storage, refrigerate the cake for up to one week, ensuring it is covered well to maintain moisture.
