Rich and Delicious Coffee Layer Cake Recipe
Greetings coffee lovers,
Are you looking for a delectable dessert to satisfy your sweet tooth and coffee cravings? Look no further than this easy coffee layer cake recipe! This cake is the perfect combination of moist sponge cake and rich coffee buttercream, topped off with a crunchy walnut layer.
But, what sets this recipe apart from other coffee cakes? First, it uses instant coffee powder to create an intense coffee flavor without the need for an espresso machine. Second, the layered cinnamon coffee streusel adds a touch of spice that pairs perfectly with the nutty flavor of the walnuts.
This cake is versatile enough to be served as a brunch treat or a show-stopping dessert at your next dinner party. And don’t worry, it may look complicated, but I promise it’s as easy as brewing a fresh pot of coffee.
So grab your apron and let’s get baking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Are you a coffee lover looking for an easy and delicious cake recipe? Look no further than this coffee layer cake recipe! Here are a few reasons why you’ll love it:
Firstly, the sponge cake layers are infused with instant coffee powder and have a light, fluffy texture. The addition of boiling water to the coffee granules ensures that the cake is moist and flavorful. You won’t be disappointed by the rich coffee flavor in every bite.
Secondly, this cake is versatile and easy to adapt to your taste preferences. You can add walnuts or a layered cinnamon streusel to create different textures and flavors. You could also swap out some of the flour for cocoa powder to create a chocolate espresso cake or add some Kahlua for a boozy twist on this classic dessert.
Thirdly, this recipe includes a delicious vanilla espresso buttercream that pairs perfectly with the coffee flavored cake layers. The icing is made with heavy cream and butter, giving it a smooth yet dense texture. The rum-infused walnuts add an extra crunch and nutty taste that perfectly complements the coffee flavor.
Finally, this recipe is simple to follow and can be made in advance. You can bake the sponge cake layers ahead of time and store them in the freezer until you are ready to assemble the cake. This makes it an ideal whether you’re hosting a party or just want a tasty treat during the week.
In conclusion, this easy coffee layer cake recipe has everything you need in a dessert – it’s decadent, flavorful, versatile, and easy to make. So what are you waiting for? Try this cake recipe today, and prepare to be transported by its delicious aroma and taste!
Ingredient List
Here are all the ingredients you’ll need for making an easy coffee layer cake:
Dry Ingredients
- 1 and 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour
- 1 and 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 2 tablespoons of instant coffee powder
Wet Ingredients
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 tablespoon of instant coffee powder dissolved in boiling water
- 1/2 cup of whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Coffee Walnut Layer
- 3/4 cup walnuts, finely chopped
- 3 tablespoons of granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons of instant coffee powder dissolved in boiling water
Espresso Buttercream Frosting Ingredients
- 1 and 1/2 cups unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 5 cups powdered sugar
- 3 tablespoons heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon instant espresso powder
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
With these ingredients in hand, you can dive into this rich and moist coffee layer cake recipe.
The Recipe How-To
Now, let’s get to the fun part – making the Easy Coffee Layer Cake Recipe!
Step 1: Make the Coffee Sponge Cake Layers
Preheat the oven to 350°F/180°C. Grease and flour two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
In a small bowl, mix together 2 tablespoons of instant coffee powder with 1/2 cup of boiling water. Set aside to cool.
In a large mixing bowl, beat 1 cup (2 sticks) of butter with 1 and 1/2 cups of sugar until light and fluffy. Add in 4 large eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Into another mixing bowl, sift together 1 and 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 and 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda.
Add the sifted dry ingredients to the butter mixture in small amounts, alternating with adding in the cooled coffee solution, blending evenly until incorporated.
Pour half of the batter into each round cake pan. Bake layers for about 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.
Let cool in pan for 5-10 minutes before turning out onto wire racks to cool completely.
Step 2: Make the Coffee Walnut Layer Filling
In a large mixing bowl, beat together 3 cups heavy cream with 1/4 cup brown sugar until firm peaks form. Fold in finely chopped walnuts or crush them (to your desired texture), adding just enough so that your frosting still forms stiff peaks but has some chunky bits.
Spread an even layer of this frosting on top of one cake layer. Gently place the other cake layer on top to create a sandwich effect. Next, spread an additional layer of frosting over the entire exterior of the cake.
Step 3: Make the Cinnamon Coffee Streusel
Combine 2 tablespoons of instant coffee powder, 1 tablespoon of cinnamon, 1 tablespoon of unsweetened cocoa powder, and 1/4 cup sugar in a small mixing bowl. Cut in 1/4 cup softened butter with a pastry blender until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Sprinkle these coffee crumbs over the cake frosting.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
Once finished decorating, your Easy Coffee Layer Cake Recipe should be chilled for an hour before cutting into slices. Serve with a hot mug of milk coffee, or rich, dark roasted blend espresso – my favorite way to enjoy this layered coffee flavored cake!
Substitutions and Variations
When it comes to making coffee layer cake, the possibilities for substitutions and variations are endless. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
– Instead of walnuts, try pecans or almonds. Toast them in the oven or on the stovetop for extra flavor.
– Swap out the heavy cream and rum in the buttercream frosting for milk and a splash of vanilla extract. This will give your frosting a lighter, more subtle taste.
– For a sugar-free version, use a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit sweetener in place of granulated sugar. Keep in mind that this may affect the texture and sweetness level of the cake.
– Add some chocolate chips or chocolate shavings between the layers for a decadent twist on classic coffee cake.
As for variations, there are many different flavors you can experiment with to put your own spin on this classic recipe. Here are a few ideas:
– Chocolate espresso cake: swap out some of the flour with cocoa powder and add in some espresso powder to give your cake a rich, chocolatey flavor.
– Vanilla latte cake: skip the coffee granules in the sponge cake and add in some vanilla extract instead. Make an espresso buttercream frosting for a latte-inspired twist.
– Cappuccino cake: use cinnamon in your sponge cake batter to give it a warm, cozy flavor. Top it off with frothy milk foam and cocoa powder for an authentic cappuccino experience.
Whatever substitutions or variations you choose to make, remember that baking is all about creativity and experimentation. Don’t be afraid to mix things up and try something new!
Serving and Pairing
Once you’ve baked this delicious coffee layer cake, serve it up with a cup of your favorite coffee or espresso-based beverage. The coffee flavor of the cake pairs perfectly with a latte or cappuccino. You may also want to sprinkle some chopped walnuts on top of the frosted cake before serving, giving it some crunch.
For those who want something a little more indulgent, try pairing this cake with a glass of sweet dessert wine or a creamy dessert liqueur like Kahlua.
Additionally, you can decorate the cake with shaved chocolate or cocoa powder for a decadent finish.
You can easily customize this recipe by swapping out walnuts for almonds, hazelnuts or any other nuts of your choice. For a sugar-free option, use sugar substitutes like erythritol or stevia while preparing the frosting.
The coffee buttercream’s subtle hint of vanilla and espresso adds depth to the layered cinnamon streusel that runs through the cake. The result is an exceptional mix of flavors that takes you on a tasteful journey with every bite.
Overall, you’ll love how versatile this easy coffee layer cake recipe is and the many different ways you can dress it up or down depending on the occasion. Serve it up however you prefer and watch it disappear in no time!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
One of the great things about this easy coffee layer cake recipe is that it can be made ahead of time and stored until you’re ready to serve it. Simply let the cake cool to room temperature, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the fridge for up to three days.
When you’re ready to serve, remove the cake from the fridge and allow it to come back to room temperature. You can also reheat individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds if you prefer a slightly warmed cake.
If you want to make this coffee layer cake even further in advance, you can freeze it for up to one month. Simply wrap the cooled cake in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it into an airtight container. To thaw, let the cake sit at room temperature for a few hours or overnight in the fridge.
When re-heating frozen coffee layer cake, it’s best to do so slowly in order to avoid drying out the layers. Place the cake on a baking sheet and cover it loosely with aluminum foil. Warm it gently in a preheated 300°F oven for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
Overall, with its simple make-ahead instructions, this coffee layer cake is perfect for those who want a decadent dessert without all of the fuss. Whether you’re planning a dinner party in advance or simply craving something sweet on a whim, this coffee-flavored cake will not disappoint.
Tips for Perfect Results
There are many little things that can make a big difference when baking a cake, and making the perfect coffee layer cake is no exception. Here are some tips to help ensure your cake turns out just right:
1. Use room temperature ingredients: This includes the butter, eggs, and milk. Letting these ingredients come to room temperature before using them will help them mix better and create a lighter, fluffier cake.
2. Don’t overmix the batter: Overmixing can make the cake dense and tough. Mix until everything is just incorporated and then stop.
3. Measure ingredients carefully: Baking is a science, so accuracy is important. Use measuring cups and spoons instead of eyeballing it.
4. Grease and flour the pans: Make sure to grease the pans well to prevent sticking. Dust with flour to help release the cake from the pan once it’s done baking.
5. Cool the cakes before frosting: Trying to frost a warm cake will cause the frosting to melt and slide off. Let the cakes cool completely before frosting them.
6. Level off the cakes: Trim off any domed tops of the cakes so that they will stack up straightly.
7. Use quality ingredients: The better quality instant coffee you use in this recipe, the better it will taste! Also consider using high-quality flour and vanilla bean paste instead of extract for an extra boost of flavor.
Follow these tips, and you’re sure to end up with a delicious coffee layer cake that your friends and family will love!
Bottom Line
To sum up, this easy coffee layer cake recipe is a true winner for coffee lovers. With its luscious layers of coffee sponge and coffee buttercream, this cake has the power to tempt every taste bud. Whether you’re in the mood for a morning breakfast treat or an afternoon snack, this cake will hit the spot.
What’s more, this recipe is versatile and can be modified to suit your preferences. You can switch up the toppings and pairings, using walnuts or chocolate chips, or kahlua or rum-infused cream. The possibilities are endless!
Overall, this cake recipe is one that I highly recommend. It’s simple enough for novice bakers to make and perfect for impressing your guests with your baking skills. So why not give it a try? Trust me; you won’t regret it!
Easy Coffee Layer Cake Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 sponge cake (8-inch /20cm - 9-inch /23cm diam, 2 layers unfilled)
- 1 tablespoon instant coffee
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/2 teaspoon rum (or 2 Tbsp rum or brandy) or 1/2 teaspoon brandy extract (or 2 Tbsp rum or brandy)
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream (whipped)
- 1/4 cup walnuts (chopped) or 1/4 cup toasted almond (chopped)
Instructions
- Cut each layer of sponge in half horizontally.
- Boil instant coffee, sugar and water together, stirring constantly until the sugar has dissolved commpletely, then simmer for 2 minutes.
- Cool and add essence or spirits.
- Whip the cream.
- Place a layer of sponge on a serving plate and drizzle one sizth of the syrup over it.
- Spread over a sixth of the whipped cream.
- Drizzle the same quantity of syrup over the next layer of sponge while it is laying on work surface, then place it, coffee side down over the cream.
- Repeat with the remaining layers, then cover the top and sides with the remaining cream.
- Sprinkle nuts over side and top of cake.
- Refrigerate for at least 12 hours, but preferably 24 hours before serving.
- Cut in wedges to serve.
Add Your Own Notes
Nutrition
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