Decadent Chocolate Espresso Cake Recipe for Coffee Lovers
Welcome coffee and chocolate lovers! My name is [Your Name] and I am a barista with a passion for baking. Today, I’m excited to share with you my recipe for the most decadent dessert you’ll ever have – Chocolate Espresso Cake!
What makes this cake so special? Well, apart from the obvious fact that it has two of the best flavors in the world combined into one, this cake is made with fresh espresso coffee for that silky espresso flavor. The rich chocolate cake has a slightly bitter coffee taste and melts in your mouth with every bite.
This cake recipe is not only delicious but also easy to make using simple ingredients that are easy to find in any grocery store. It’s perfect as a treat for yourself or to impress your guests at your next dinner party. Trust me; they will be begging you for the recipe!
So what are you waiting for? Follow along as I give step-by-step instructions, share some tips and answer frequently asked questions about making Chocolate Espresso Cake. I guarantee that with this recipe, your taste buds will be thanking you. So put on your apron and let’s get started!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Looking for the perfect indulgent treat to satisfy your sweet tooth? Look no further than this delectable chocolate espresso cake recipe! Trust me, once you’ve tried this cake, you’ll be hooked – I know I am! Here are just a few reasons why you’ll absolutely love this recipe:
1. The combination of rich chocolate and silky espresso is simply divine. The flavor of the coffee perfectly complements the sweetness of the chocolate to create a taste that is simply irresistible.
2. This chocolate espresso cake is perfect for any occasion. Whether you want to impress guests at a dinner party, or simply treat yourself to a slice of something decadent, this cake fits the bill perfectly.
3. The cake itself is incredibly moist and fluffy, thanks to the use of olive oil instead of butter. And with a generous helping of chocolate chips baked right into the batter, every bite is guaranteed to be deliciously indulgent.
4. It’s incredibly easy to make! Even novice bakers will find that this recipe is simple and straightforward, with easy-to-follow instructions that guarantee success every time.
So what are you waiting for? Indulge in the flavors of smooth espresso and rich chocolate with this incredible chocolate espresso cake recipe – your taste buds will thank you!
Ingredient List
Here are all the ingredients needed to make this heavenly chocolate espresso cake:
Dry ingredients:
- 1 and 3/4 cups (220 grams) all-purpose flour
- 2 cups (400 grams) granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup (75 grams) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 and 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 and 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons espresso powder
Wet ingredients:
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 cup (240ml) whole milk, at room temperature
- 1/2 cup (120ml) olive oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup (240ml) freshly brewed strong espresso coffee or a shot of espresso, at room temperature
Chocolate chunks or chips:
- 1 cup (150g) chocolate chips, semi-sweet or dark chocolate.
Note: This recipe uses a lot of eggs, which guarantees that the cake will rise and be moist with a tender crumb.
The Recipe How-To
Before starting with the cake recipe, make sure that you have all the necessary ingredients in hand. Take out the 2 cups of purpose flour, 1 1/2 cups of granulated sugar, 3 /4 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, 1-1/2 teaspoons of baking powder and salt, and 1 teaspoon each of baking soda and espresso powder chocolate. Finally, bring out the 2 large eggs and 1 cup of milk.
Preparing the Wet ingredients
To begin with, take a large bowl and add the wet ingredients to it one by one. Start by adding 1/2 cup olive oil, followed by 2 large eggs at room temperature. Using a whisk or an electric mixer on medium speed, beat until everything combines well. Then, add 1 tbsp vanilla extract and 1 cup espresso coffee, mix again until creamy.
Combining Dry Ingredients
Take another bowl and sieve together all the dry ingredients – 2 cups purpose flour, ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder, 1½ tsp each baking powder, baking soda, espresso powder, and ½ tsp salt to avoid clumps. Combine these well.
Mix It Up
Next, mix the dry ingredients with the wet ones by using an electric mixer on low speed. Add dry mixture in two steps while alternating them with 1 cup milk to ensure thorough blending without creating lumps. Scrape down sides as required.
Baking the Cake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) before pouring the mix into a greased pan (either square or round). Bake for around 30-35 minutes or until fully cooked through (insert toothpick/knife in center & check if it comes out clean).
Finishing Touches
When ready, remove from oven and let cool for around 10-15 minutes before removing from pan. For a silky espresso flavor, dust the top with 1 tablespoon of cocoa powder and 1 tablespoon of espresso powder.
Serving Time
And that’s it! You’ve made a delectable chocolate espresso cake. Garnish it up with some chocolate curls or drizzle silky espresso buttercream on top for added richness. Serve with fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice-cream for a perfect finish.
Enjoy your homemade masterpiece!
Substitutions and Variations
Don’t let a lack of ingredients keep you from indulging in this delicious chocolate espresso cake recipe. Here are some substitutions and variations that you can try:
– Olive oil: If you don’t have olive oil on hand, feel free to substitute with vegetable oil, canola oil or even coconut oil. However, do note that each oil has its own distinct flavor profile that might affect the taste of the cake.
– Flour: All-purpose flour works great for this recipe, but if you want to experiment with different types of flour, go for it! Whole wheat flour or almond flour can add a nutty flavor, while using cake flour can result in a lighter and fluffier texture.
– Espresso powder: If you don’t have espresso powder on hand, simply replace it with instant coffee granules. The flavor won’t be as intense as espresso powder, but it will still give the cake a hint of coffee flavor.
– Chocolate: This recipe calls for unsweetened cocoa powder and dark chocolate chips, but you can use any type of chocolate you like. Milk chocolate or white chocolate can add a sweeter touch to the cake.
– Serving and Pairing: This cake pairs well with some freshly whipped cream or salted caramel sauce drizzled over the top. You can also try adding some chocolate curls for an extra decadent touch.
Remember, baking is all about experimenting and finding what works best for you. Don’t be afraid to try new ingredients or tweak the recipe to make it your own. Happy baking!
Serving and Pairing
The decadent chocolate espresso cake is a true delight and a showstopper, perfect for sharing with family and friends. The rich, silky texture of the cake and the intense coffee-chocolate flavor make it a dessert to be savored slowly.
To elevate the sensory experience of this cake, I recommend serving it with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream. The contrast between the hot cake and the cold whipped cream or ice cream creates a unique sensation in your mouth that enhances the flavors and completes the dessert.
For coffee lovers, the chocolate espresso cake is a perfect match for a hot cup of espresso coffee. The bitter notes from the coffee will complement the sweetness of the cake while enhancing its rich flavor. To fully appreciate this pairing, I suggest serving the cake on a beautiful plate or platter alongside an elegant cup of espresso coffee.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also try pairing this cake with some fresh berries or baked fruit, such as pears or apples. The tartness and freshness of the fruit will create a balance with the richness of the cake, making it feel less heavy.
Finally, if you want to impress your guests with a fancy dessert menu, you can serve this chocolate espresso cake alongside some salted caramel sauce, chocolate cremeux or dusted with some dark chocolate curls on top. These sophisticated pairings add new depth to an already extraordinary dessert and create an experience to be remembered.
No matter what your choice is, this chocolate espresso cake will surely be a crowd-pleaser that leaves everyone asking for more!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
I know how it can be when you’re hosting a gathering, and you want to have a dessert ready well before the event, without the risk of it going stale! Therefore, I’m happy to share that this chocolate espresso cake recipe has fantastic make-ahead capabilities.
Simply bake the cake entirely and then wrap it up tightly in plastic wrap or an airtight container. Place it in your refrigerator for 1-2 days tops. You could also freeze it for up to three months, making sure you remove all air from the wrapping before popping it into the freezer.
In contrast, when reheating or thawing, ensure you let the cake come to room temperature first for about two hours outside of the refrigerator or on your kitchen counter while still wrapped up. Please don’t unwrap it while still cold to prevent any moisture forming on the surface. Once ready, slice the cake, and put it under low heat (microwave or oven), then a warm cup of espresso coffee would be an excellent addition to enjoy with your warmed-up dessert. The aroma will fill up your space with silky espresso flavors that will transport you right into heaven.
Finally, if you have any leftover slices after serving, store them in an airtight container or covered platter in your home’s ambience from 1 day or up to three days in a cooler temperature, like your fridge’s bottom shelf to keep moistness locked in. To avoid making the cake too soggy or damp, do not store it with any sticky fruits like bananas or overly juicy berries.
I hope this advice helps make things easier for you and simplifies any storage logistics!
Tips for Perfect Results
The Chocolate Espresso Cake is a delightful dessert that requires careful attention to detail to get the perfect result. With these tips, you can make your cake taste even better than a bakery-made cake.
1. Use High-quality Ingredients
As simple as it sounds, high-quality ingredients make all the difference in the final product. Especially with chocolate espresso cake, using high-quality cocoa powder and espresso coffee can enhance the flavor immensely. Always use fresh ingredients, and never skimp on quality.
2. Keep an Eye on the Oven Temperature
The ideal oven temperature for baking the chocolate espresso cake is 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Since every oven is different, keep an eye on the baking time and adjust accordingly to make sure you achieve a perfectly baked cake. I recommend using an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy.
3. Measure Accurately
Measuring ingredients accurately is vital when baking a cake, so be sure to use measuring spoons and cups when preparing the batter. The right proportion of ingredients determines the texture and structure of the cake.
4. Don’t Overmix or Undermix
Mixing is essential when baking, but don’t overdo it, or you may end up with a dense cake. Mix the batter only until you see no more streaks of flour or cocoa powder; then stop immediately.
5. Grease and Flour Your Pan
Greasing and flouring your pan allows for easy removal of the cake without sticking or breaking apart. I recommend using olive oil cooking spray or butter for greasing, and flour or cocoa powder (if making a chocolate espresso cake) for flouring.
6. Add Espresso Buttercream Frosting
Espresso buttercream frosting is a perfect complement to this decadent chocolate espresso cake. It enhances and adds another layer of flavor while also adding moisture to the cake.
7. Allow Time for Cooling
Allow your cake to cool down completely before cutting or frosting it; otherwise, it may crumble or break apart. I recommend cooling for at least 30 minutes before frosting, but ideally, let it cool in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
With these tips, you’ll be able to make a delicious and moist chocolate espresso cake every time. Remember, attention to detail is essential when baking, but also have fun and be creative. Experiment with flavors and toppings until you find your perfect combination.
FAQ
As with any recipe, there may be some questions or uncertainties that arise during the preparation process. To help ensure that your Chocolate Espresso Cake comes out perfectly, here are some common questions and answers to keep in mind while baking. So, let’s take a look at some FAQ of this amazing chocolate espresso cake recipe!
What does espresso powder do in chocolate cake?
As a barista, I love experimenting with different coffee-based recipes. One of my all-time favorites is incorporating espresso and chocolate into baked goods like brownies. The rich flavor profile of both espresso and chocolate creates a dreamy pairing that is sure to impress. So, I’m here to share my recipe and give you some tips on how to perfectly integrate espresso and chocolate into your baked treats.
What does coffee do to chocolate cake?
Coffee can amplify the already indulgent taste of chocolate. It’s a game-changer in enhancing its rich, chocolatey flavor in cakes. For those who dislike coffee, it’s possible to substitute it with water. Alternatively, you can use espresso powder. Just add a teaspoon of it with a cup of water to substitute a cup of coffee.
Why does espresso make chocolate taste better?
Espresso powder, made from finely ground coffee beans, has the remarkable power to enhance the deep spice and caramel flavors within chocolate. With its ability to draw out and magnify these rich notes, espresso powder can take the taste of chocolate to new heights.
What does adding coffee to cake mix do?
If you’re looking to enhance the flavor of your chocolate dessert, consider replacing water with coffee in your recipe. This simple switch can add depth and subtlety to your confection, accentuating the chocolate notes and masking artificial tastes. Additionally, the coffee can give it a more authentic, homemade quality. As writer Claire Lower explained, chocolate and coffee mix together perfectly, resulting in a deliciously indulgent dessert.
Bottom Line
: In conclusion, this chocolate espresso cake recipe is sure to impress anyone who enjoys the rich, silky flavor of chocolate and the kick of espresso. With a few simple ingredients and some basic baking skills, you can create a decadent dessert that will leave your guests asking for seconds.
Try out this recipe for yourself and experiment with different variations and substitutions to personalize it to your taste. Whether you prefer a flourless chocolate espresso cake or a coffee chocolate chip cake, there’s no wrong way to enjoy the irresistible flavor combination of espresso and chocolate.
To further elevate your cake, try pairing it with a hot cup of coffee or an espresso cocktail. Or if you’re feeling extra indulgent, top it off with some salted caramel or chocolate cremeux and garnish with some dark chocolate curls.
Don’t be afraid to get creative and make this recipe your own. With its rich flavor and endless possibilities for personalization, this chocolate espresso cake is sure to become a staple dessert in your household. So grab your apron, preheat your oven, and get ready to explore the delicious world of espresso cake.
Chocolate Espresso Cake Recipe
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup cocoa, sifted
- 1 1/2 cups flour
- 1 1/2 cups sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 pinch salt
- 1 fluid ounce espresso coffee (no milk)
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 2 eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla
- 3/4 cup sunflower oil or 3/4 cup olive oil
Instructions
- Turn on oven to 180 degrees Celsius.
- Set rack to low or middle shelf position.
- Generously grease and flour a 25cm springform cake tin.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine all the cake ingredients & mix on medium speed of an electric mixer for about 3 minutes or until well combined. Or if you don't have an electric mixer like me at the moment, just use a wooden spoon until all the lumps have been smoothed out.
- Bake for about 50-60 minutes or until the cake is cooked in the centre (check with a wooden skewer).
- Ice with chocolate or coffee icing if desired, when completely cooled. Kiwi fruit goes really with this cake, as does mandarine.