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Chocolate Espresso Cake

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A rich, moist chocolate espresso cake made with brewed coffee and espresso powder for intensified chocolate flavor. Layered with chocolate frosting, this dairy-free, egg-free cake is easy to prepare and deeply satisfying.

  • Author: Sophia
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 27 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes plus cooling
  • Yield: 12 servings
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegan

Ingredients

  • 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 teaspoon espresso powder
  • 3 cups sugar (white, brown, or a mix)
  • 1 tablespoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 3 tablespoons vinegar (white or apple cider vinegar)
  • 1 1/4 cups vegetable, canola, or safflower oil
  • 3 cups brewed coffee, cooled to room temperature
  • 3 cups chocolate frosting

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease three 8-inch cake pans.
  2. In a large bowl, combine flour, cocoa powder, espresso powder, sugar, baking soda, and salt.
  3. Add vanilla extract, vinegar, oil, and cooled brewed coffee. Mix until a smooth, thick batter forms.
  4. Divide the batter evenly between the three pans.
  5. Bake for 25–27 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out mostly clean.
  6. Allow the cakes to cool completely.
  7. For a nine-layer effect, slice each cake horizontally into three thin layers.
  8. Place the first layer on a flat surface and spread a thin layer of chocolate frosting. Repeat with all remaining layers.
  9. Frost the outside of the cake with the remaining frosting.
  10. Let the cake rest for 30 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

  • Use decaf coffee for a caffeine-free version.
  • Add mini chocolate chips between layers for extra richness.
  • Swap some sugar for dark brown sugar for deeper flavor.
  • Skip slicing layers for a simpler three-layer cake.
  • Add a pinch of cinnamon for a warm undertone.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://savorymomskitchen.com/chocolate-espresso-cake/