Chocolate Espresso Cake

A rich and moist chocolate cake with a hint of espresso that enhances the chocolate flavor without tasting like coffee. This recipe is celebrated for its light texture and deep chocolate taste. Makes 24 servings. Prep time: 15 minutes, Cook time: 35 minutes, Total time: 1 hour.

December 29, 2025

Easy

Categories: Other

Instructions

1. 1

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

2. 2

   In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and espresso powder until well blended.

3. 3

   Add milk, oil, eggs, and vanilla to the dry ingredients. Mix on medium speed until just combined.

4. 4

   Reduce speed to low and carefully add the boiling water. The batter will be thin; that's normal for this cake.

5. 5

   Divide batter evenly between the two pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

6. 6

   Let cakes cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.

7. 7

   Once completely cool, frost with chocolate buttercream frosting as desired.

This recipe features a rich chocolate flavor and light texture, making it a perfect choice for both beginner bakers and seasoned pros. The secret ingredient is espresso powder, which enhances the chocolate flavor without adding a coffee taste.

Optional Chocolate Buttercream Frosting

• 1 cup (2 sticks) butter, softened
• 2/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 3 cups confectioners’ sugar
• 1/3 cup milk (or heavy cream)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon espresso powder (optional, to deepen chocolate flavor)
• Pinch of salt (optional)

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
2. Sift the cocoa powder and confectioners’ sugar to remove lumps.
3. Add cocoa powder to butter and beat until well combined.
4. Alternately add confectioners’ sugar and milk, mixing on high speed for a minute after each addition, until fluffy.
5. Beat in vanilla extract, optional espresso powder, and a pinch of salt if desired.
6. Add a bit more milk if needed for desired consistency.

This quantity will frost a two-layer 9-inch cake or about 24 cupcakes.

Source: Add a Pinch

Notes

• Adding espresso powder or instant coffee does not make the cake taste like coffee but enriches the chocolate flavor.
• You can substitute types of milk based on dietary preferences.
• The batter will be thin - this is normal and results in a moist cake.

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