Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Coffee Cake Recipe
You’re going to love this Chocolate Coffee Cake recipe for its rich flavor and delightful texture. The moment you take a bite, you’ll be greeted with the perfect balance of chocolate and coffee, creating an indulgent experience.
I adore how moist it is, thanks to the soaking process, which enhances the cake’s overall depth. The aroma wafting through my kitchen as it bakes is pure bliss.
Plus, it’s versatile enough for breakfast or dessert. Trust me, if you serve it at a gathering, your friends will be begging for the recipe. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser every time!
Ingredients of Chocolate Coffee Cake
When it comes to whipping up a delicious Chocolate Coffee Cake, having the right ingredients on hand is essential. You’ll want to gather a few pantry staples and some delightful extras that will take this cake from good to absolutely divine.
Trust me, once you see how simple it’s to procure these items, you’ll be on your way to baking happiness. And let’s face it, who wouldn’t want to indulge in a slice of this rich, chocolatey goodness?
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 3 cups whole wheat flour
- 2 cups whey or kefir (your choice)
- 1 1/2 cups artificial sweetener (like sucanat) or regular sugar
- 1 cup butter or coconut oil
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- A dash of salt
- A dash of clove
- 1 cup nuts (optional)
Now, before you dash off to the store, let’s chat about a few ingredient considerations. If you’re like me and sometimes forget what’s in your pantry, double-check for those whole wheat flour and cocoa powder.
Also, if you choose to use coconut oil instead of butter, you might just feel a tiny bit healthier—like you’ve made a virtuous choice while still indulging in something chocolatey.
And don’t skip the soaking step with the flour and liquid; it really makes a difference in the cake’s moisture and flavor. Plus, it gives you a chance to take a little break, maybe sip on some coffee and dream about how amazing your kitchen is going to smell in a little while.
Happy baking!
How to Make Chocolate Coffee Cake
Making a delightful Chocolate Coffee Cake is easier than you might think, and the best part? It all starts with a little bit of patience.
First, let’s talk about the soaking process. In a large bowl, you’ll want to combine 3 cups of whole wheat flour with 2 cups of whey or kefir. This is the secret sauce to getting that moist and flavorful cake we all crave. Cover it and let it soak for anywhere from 12 to 24 hours. I know, I know—waiting can be tough, especially when all you can think about is that chocolatey goodness. But trust me, it’s worth it. You could use this time to dream up your frosting plans or maybe even scroll through some baking memes.
Once your flour and liquid have mingled beautifully for that perfect amount of time, it’s time to get mixing. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees, because we want to be ready to bake as soon as we’ve got everything combined.
In your flour mixture, add in 1 1/2 cups of your preferred sweetener (I’m a sucanat fan, but sugar is fine too), along with 1 cup of butter or coconut oil, melted. Then toss in 1/4 cup of cocoa powder, 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking soda, 1 tablespoon of cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, a dash of salt, and a dash of clove. You’ll want to mix this all together until it’s smooth, and just imagine how heavenly your kitchen smells right now.
If you’re feeling a bit nutty, fold in 1 cup of chopped nuts for added crunch.
Now, take your batter and pour it into a greased 9×13 pan. This is where the magic happens—if you’re like me, you might’ve to resist the urge to eat the batter straight from the bowl. But don’t worry, cake will be ready soon. If you’re using nuts, sprinkle those on top for an extra touch of yum.
Bake your masterpiece in the oven for about 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
And there you have it—a luscious Chocolate Coffee Cake ready to be enjoyed. Just remember, patience is key… even if it feels like torture waiting for that first slice.
Chocolate Coffee Cake Substitutions & Variations
While I love the classic Chocolate Coffee Cake recipe, there’s always room for creativity and personalization.
You can swap whole wheat flour for almond flour for a gluten-free option or use applesauce instead of butter for a lighter version. If you’re not a fan of nuts, try adding chocolate chips or dried fruit for extra flavor.
For a mocha twist, mix in espresso powder or strong brewed coffee. You can also experiment with spices—adding cardamom or ginger can create a unique taste.
Don’t hesitate to make it your own; the possibilities are endless!
What to Serve with Chocolate Coffee Cake
If you’re looking to elevate your Chocolate Coffee Cake experience, consider what to serve alongside it.
I love pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for that creamy contrast. Fresh berries, like raspberries or strawberries, add a delightful tartness that balances the rich chocolate.
For a cozy touch, a steaming cup of coffee or a rich hot cocoa complements the flavors perfectly. If you’re feeling adventurous, a drizzle of caramel sauce can take it to the next level.
These simple additions make each bite even more enjoyable.
Additional Tips & Notes
When baking your Chocolate Coffee Cake, a few key tips can make a big difference.
First, don’t skip the soaking step; it enhances the flavor and texture. I always use room temperature ingredients because they blend better.
If you want a richer taste, try adding a splash of espresso to the batter. For a moist cake, keep an eye on your baking time—start checking at 30 minutes.
If you love nuts, chop them coarsely and sprinkle them evenly for a delightful crunch.
Finally, let the cake cool completely before slicing; it helps set the flavors perfectly. Enjoy your baking!