Mocha Layer Cake with Chocolate

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Mocha Layer Cake with Chocolate-Rum Cream Filling

Introduction

This Mocha Layer Cake is a decadent treat for coffee and chocolate lovers alike. With moist coffee-infused cake layers and a luscious chocolate-rum cream filling, this dessert brings together rich flavors that melt in your mouth. The addition of rum enhances the depth of the chocolate, making each bite irresistible. Perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or when you just need an indulgent treat!

History & Formation

Mocha, a combination of coffee and chocolate, has been a beloved flavor pairing for centuries. Its name originates from the port of Mocha in Yemen, which was historically famous for its coffee beans with natural chocolatey notes. Over time, European bakers incorporated mocha into pastries, leading to the development of cakes like this one.

Rum, another key ingredient in this recipe, dates back to the 17th century, when it was widely produced in the Caribbean. The infusion of rum in chocolate desserts became popular in European patisseries, giving rise to rich, boozy cakes that remain a favorite today.

This Mocha Layer Cake combines these traditions into one irresistible dessert!

Ingredients

For the Mocha Cake:

  • 2 ½ cups (310g) all-purpose flour
  • 2 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¾ cup (170g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 ¾ cups (350g) granulated sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk
  • ½ cup (120ml) strong brewed coffee (cooled)
  • ¼ cup (25g) cocoa powder

For the Chocolate-Rum Cream Filling:

  • 1 ½ cups (360ml) heavy whipping cream
  • 8 oz (225g) dark chocolate, finely chopped
  • ¼ cup (60ml) dark rum
  • 2 tbsp powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Mocha Frosting:

  • 1 cup (230g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 cups (360g) powdered sugar
  • ¼ cup (25g) cocoa powder
  • 3 tbsp strong brewed coffee, cooled
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

For Decoration (Optional):

  • Chocolate shavings or curls
  • Coffee beans
  • Cocoa powder for dusting

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Mocha Cake

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder. Set aside.
  3. In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 2 minutes).
  4. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk and coffee, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
  6. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
  7. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  8. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 2: Make the Chocolate-Rum Cream Filling

  1. Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until it just begins to simmer.
  2. Pour the hot cream over the chopped dark chocolate in a bowl. Let sit for 2 minutes, then whisk until smooth.
  3. Stir in the rum, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract.
  4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes until thickened but still spreadable.

Step 3: Make the Mocha Frosting

  1. Beat the butter until creamy, about 2 minutes.
  2. Gradually add the powdered sugar and cocoa powder, beating well.
  3. Add the coffee, vanilla extract, and salt. Continue beating until smooth and fluffy.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

  1. Place one cake layer on a serving plate.
  2. Spread the chocolate-rum cream filling evenly over the cake.
  3. Place the second cake layer on top.
  4. Frost the entire cake with the mocha frosting.
  5. Garnish with chocolate shavings, coffee beans, or a dusting of cocoa powder.

Lovers of This Recipe

This cake is a dream come true for:
✔ Coffee lovers – The rich mocha flavor is irresistible!
✔ Chocolate enthusiasts – Dark chocolate and cocoa make this incredibly indulgent.
✔ Baking fans – If you love layered cakes, this one is fun and rewarding to make.
✔ Rum lovers – The touch of dark rum takes this dessert to the next level.

Conclusion

This Mocha Layer Cake with Chocolate-Rum Cream Filling is a perfect balance of deep chocolate, bold coffee, and a hint of rum. It’s a showstopper dessert for any celebration or a treat to impress your loved ones.

Would you like a variation with white chocolate or a different frosting option? Let me know!

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