Coffee Layer Cake
Rich Layers. Bold Coffee Flavor. Pure Indulgence in Every Slice.
Coffee. Elevated. Layered Perfection. Multiple layers of moist coffee cake stacked with silky coffee buttercream — this Coffee Layer Cake is the ultimate showstopper for any occasion. ☕🎂
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup strong brewed coffee (cooled)
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
For the Coffee Buttercream
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2–3 tbsp strong brewed coffee (cooled)
- 1 tbsp instant espresso powder or strong coffee granules
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Optional Decorations
- Coffee beans
- Chocolate shavings
- Drizzle of coffee syrup
How to Make It
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugars, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, whisk together eggs, buttermilk, oil, brewed coffee, and vanilla extract.
- Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
- Divide batter evenly among prepared pans and smooth tops.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- For the buttercream: Beat butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, then mix in coffee, espresso powder, vanilla, and salt. Beat until light and fluffy.
- Level cake layers if needed. Place one layer on a cake stand and spread with buttercream. Repeat with remaining layers.
- Frost the top and sides of the cake. Decorate as desired with coffee beans, chocolate shavings, or a drizzle of coffee syrup.
Dr. Kesha's Tip: For extra moisture and flavor, brush each cake layer with a little coffee syrup before frosting.
Prep Time: 40 minutes | Bake Time: 25–30 minutes (per layer) | Cool Time: 30 minutes | Makes: 12–14 slices




