Looking for a cake that screams “I have standards” without saying a word? The chocolate mocha layer cake is it. Layers of rich, decadent chocolate meet the bold, irresistible kick of coffee. This isn’t some simple dessert to pass the time – it’s for people who appreciate depth and complexity, like a good espresso. If you’re going to indulge, you might as well do it right. Moist, flavorful, and with that perfect touch of mocha, this cake is ready to steal the spotlight at your next gathering. And yes, you’ll feel superior for making it.

Chocolate Mocha Layer Cake
A rich and indulgent chocolate mocha layer cake that balances bold coffee flavors with smooth chocolate layers. Topped with a luscious frosting.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup strong brewed coffee cooled
- ½ cup whole milk
- ½ cup unsalted butter softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 3 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tbsp brewed coffee
- 2 tbsp heavy cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease and line two 8-inch round cake pans.
- In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, whisk together cooled coffee, milk, butter, eggs, and vanilla.
- Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until smooth.
- Pour batter into the prepared cake pans. Bake for 30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool for 10 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.
- For the frosting, beat softened butter and powdered sugar until fluffy.
- Add cocoa powder, coffee, heavy cream, and vanilla. Mix until smooth.
- Frost the cooled cakes, layering them with frosting in between.
- Slice, serve, and enjoy your moment of dessert superiority.
Notes
Nutritional Values (Per Serving)
- Calories: 400
- Total Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
Vitamins and Minerals (Per Serving)
- Iron: 8%
- Calcium: 6%
- Vitamin A: 12%
- Magnesium: 7%
- Phosphorus: 8%
Additional Notes/Tips to Enhance Flavor
- Add chocolate chips to the cake batter for an extra chocolatey punch.
- Use dark roast coffee for a more intense flavor.
- If you’re feeling fancy, drizzle some melted chocolate on top of the frosting.
- Make it ahead! The cake stays moist for days, so don’t feel pressured to eat it all in one sitting (but we won’t judge).
- Serve with whipped cream or ice cream to elevate the experience.