Indulge in the rich flavors of chocolate and mocha with this decadent Chocolate Cake with Mocha Buttercream Frosting. Moist chocolate cake layers are sandwiched together and frosted with a luscious mocha buttercream, creating a dessert that’s sure to satisfy any chocolate lover’s cravings. Follow these steps to create this irresistible cake that’s perfect for any special occasion or simply to treat yourself.
Ingredients:
For the Chocolate Cake:
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons light brown sugar, tightly packed
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 1 large egg, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
For the Mocha Buttercream Frosting:
- 1.5 ounces unsweetened chocolate, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon instant coffee or espresso powder
- 2 sticks (1 cup) unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 2 cups confectioner’s sugar
- 1 cup mini chocolate chips
Instructions:
For the Chocolate Cake:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and position the oven rack in the center. Prepare two 6-inch round cake pans by spraying liberally with non-stick cooking spray and lining the bottoms with parchment paper. Spray the parchment paper as well.
- In a large bowl, whisk together granulated sugar, light brown sugar, sour cream, vegetable oil, egg, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
- Add flour, cocoa powder, and baking soda. Whisk until the batter is smooth and the dry ingredients are just incorporated. Be careful not to overmix.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula.
- Bake for 20 to 22 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center of each cake comes out clean and the tops spring back when gently pressed with a finger.
- Remove from the oven and let the cakes cool in the pans on a wire rack for 15 minutes. Then, invert the cakes onto the wire rack to cool completely before frosting.
For the Mocha Buttercream Frosting:
- In a large heatproof metal bowl, combine finely chopped unsweetened chocolate and instant coffee or espresso powder.
- Place the bowl over a saucepan of simmering water, ensuring the water does not touch the bottom of the bowl. Stir the chocolate constantly with a whisk until completely melted and smooth.
- Remove the bowl from heat. Add unsalted butter and confectioner’s sugar to the melted chocolate. Whisk until combined and the mixture is lightened to a pale brown color. If the frosting is too soft to spread, chill it until it reaches a spreadable consistency, whisking occasionally.
- Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread 1 cup of the mocha buttercream frosting evenly over the top of the cake layer using an icing spatula. Sprinkle mini chocolate chips evenly over the frosting.
- Carefully place the second cake layer on top of the chocolate chips. Use the remaining frosting to frost the top and sides of the cake, creating a smooth and even layer.
Conclusion:
Slice into this Chocolate Cake with Mocha Buttercream Frosting to reveal layers of rich chocolate cake and creamy mocha frosting, topped with a delightful crunch of mini chocolate chips. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a sweet treat, this cake is sure to impress with its decadent flavors and moist texture. Enjoy every bite of this homemade dessert masterpiece!