Calling all coffee and chocolate lovers! This Mocha Layer Cake is a rich, indulgent treat, featuring soft espresso-infused cake layers and a luscious chocolate-rum cream filling.
Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any special occasion, this cake delivers a bold mocha flavor, balanced with a hint of rum for an extra touch of decadence. Ready to impress your guests? Let’s bake!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
☕ Rich Mocha Flavor – A perfect blend of coffee and chocolate.
🍫 Decadent Chocolate-Rum Filling – Silky, smooth, and irresistibly creamy.
🎂 Soft & Moist Layers – Made with buttermilk for a tender crumb.
🔥 Easy to Make – Simple ingredients, gourmet results!
Ingredients for Mocha Layer Cake
For the Mocha Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1¾ cups granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp instant espresso powder (dissolved in ½ cup hot water)
- 1 cup buttermilk
For the Chocolate-Rum Cream Filling:
- 1½ cups heavy cream
- 8 oz dark chocolate, chopped
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- 1 tbsp dark rum
For the Mocha Buttercream Frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- ¼ cup cocoa powder
- 2 tbsp strong brewed coffee (cooled)
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Mocha Layer Cake
Step 1: Make the Mocha Cake
1️⃣ Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans.
2️⃣ In a bowl, whisk flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3️⃣ In another bowl, beat butter and sugar until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla and espresso mixture.
4️⃣ Alternate adding the dry ingredients and buttermilk, mixing until combined.
5️⃣ Divide batter evenly between the cake pans and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6️⃣ Let cakes cool for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 2: Prepare the Chocolate-Rum Cream Filling
7️⃣ Heat heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat until warm (but not boiling).
8️⃣ Pour over chopped dark chocolate and let sit for 5 minutes. Stir until smooth.
9️⃣ Mix in powdered sugar and rum, then chill until thickened.
Step 3: Make the Mocha Buttercream
🔟 Beat butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and cocoa powder, then mix in coffee and vanilla.
Step 4: Assemble the Cake
✅ Place one cake layer on a plate. Spread with chocolate-rum cream filling.
✅ Top with the second cake layer and frost with mocha buttercream.
✅ Decorate with chocolate shavings or espresso beans.
Best Tips for a Perfect Mocha Cake
✔️ Use Room Temperature Ingredients – Ensures a smooth batter.
✔️ Dissolve Espresso Powder Well – Enhances the mocha flavor.
✔️ Chill the Chocolate Filling – Thickens it for better spreading.
✔️ Sift Cocoa Powder for Frosting – Prevents lumps for a smooth texture.
How to Store & Serve
🥶 Storage: Keep the cake covered at room temperature for 2 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days.
🔥 Serving: Bring to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.
👉 Want to make it ahead? The cake layers can be baked and frozen for up to 2 months!
Nutrition Facts (Per Slice)
- Calories: 430 kcal
- Protein: 5g
- Carbs: 55g
- Fat: 22g
- Sugar: 40g
💡 Looking for a lighter version? Substitute Greek yogurt for butter in the cake batter!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use decaf coffee instead of espresso powder?
✅ Yes! Brewed decaf coffee works fine, but espresso powder gives a stronger mocha flavor.
Q: Can I make this cake alcohol-free?
✅ Absolutely! Just skip the rum in the chocolate filling.
Q: Can I make cupcakes instead of a layer cake?
✅ Yes! Bake at 350°F for 18-20 minutes for perfect mocha cupcakes.
Final Thoughts
This Mocha Layer Cake with Chocolate-Rum Cream Filling is a dream for chocolate and coffee lovers. With its moist cake layers, velvety filling, and smooth mocha buttercream, it’s pure dessert perfection.
So, grab your mixing bowls and treat yourself to a slice of homemade mocha bliss! ☕🍫🎂
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