Double Chocolate Chip Cake with Espresso Cream Cheese Frosting

If you’re looking for a dessert that will wow your family and friends, you’ve found it! This Double Chocolate Chip Cake with Espresso Cream Cheese Frosting is a true crowd-pleaser. Imagine a rich chocolate cake packed with espresso morsels, layered generously with creamy frosting that has just the right mocha kick. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family gathering or a special celebration. Trust me, this cake will make you feel like a baking superstar!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Decadent Flavor: The combination of chocolate and espresso creates an irresistible flavor that’s perfect for any chocolate lover.
• Easy Preparation: With simple steps and easy-to-find ingredients, this cake is accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the rich chocolate flavor, making it a hit at birthday parties or family dinners.
• Make-Ahead Option: Bake the cake in advance and frost it just before serving to save time on busy days.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be delighted to know that the ingredients for this Double Chocolate Chip Cake with Espresso Cream Cheese Frosting are simple and wholesome. Gather these delicious items to get started!

For the Cake

• 2/3 C (50g) Cocoa Powder
• 1 1/2 C (175g) Self Rising Flour
• 1 tsp Baking Powder
• 1 stick (113g) Unsalted Butter, softened
• 1 1/4 C (240g) Sugar
• 3 Eggs, room temperature
• 1/3 C (79ml) Milk, room temperature
• 1/3 C (79ml) Water, room temperature
• 2/3 C (125g) Espresso Morsels

For the Frosting

• 1 stick (113g) Unsalted Butter, softened
• 1 pkg (8oz) Cream Cheese, softened
• 2 3/4 C (400g) Powdered Sugar
• 1 tsp Vanilla
• 2 tsp Instant Espresso, mixed into 4 tsp of water
• 1/4 tsp Salt
• 1/3 C (75g) Crushed Chocolate Covered Espresso Beans, optional topping

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add Some Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for extra texture and flavor.
• Switch Up the Chips: Use dark chocolate chips instead of espresso morsels for a richer taste.
• Make it Dairy-Free: Substitute the butter and cream cheese with plant-based alternatives to cater to dairy-sensitive guests.
• Go Gluten-Free: Swap out regular flour with a gluten-free blend for those avoiding gluten.

How to Make Double Chocolate Chip Cake with Espresso Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first! Preheat your oven to 350ºF. This ensures that your cake bakes evenly. While that’s heating up, prepare two 8 round cake pans by greasing them well with butter and lining them with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium mixing bowl, combine your self-rising flour, cocoa powder, and baking powder. Whisk these together until they are fully blended—this will help your cake rise beautifully!

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

Using a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream together the softened butter and sugar until it’s light and fluffy. This step introduces air into your batter for a light texture.

Step 4: Add Eggs

With the mixer running on low speed, add in your eggs one at a time. Mixing well after each addition ensures that they incorporate fully into the mixture.

Step 5: Incorporate Milk and Water

Pour in the milk and water while continuing to mix at low to medium speed. This adds moisture to your cake batter—a key ingredient for keeping it soft!

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add in your flour mixture while mixing at low speed until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want our cake tender!

Step 7: Fold in Espresso Morsels

Gently fold in those delightful espresso morsels using a spatula. This step adds bursts of flavor throughout every slice of cake.

Step 8: Bake the Cakes

Divide your batter equally between the two prepared pans. Bake in your preheated oven for about 22-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 9: Cool Your Cakes

Once baked, allow the cakes to cool in their pans for about five minutes before transferring them onto a wire rack. Let them cool completely before frosting—this prevents melting!

Step 10: Make Your Frosting

In your stand mixer using the paddle attachment again, cream together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Scrape down the sides occasionally so there are no lumps left behind.

Step 11: Mix in Remaining Frosting Ingredients

Add powdered sugar, instant espresso mixture, vanilla extract, and salt into the creamed mixture. Start whisking slowly until incorporated then increase speed until stiff peaks form in your frosting.

Step 12: Frost Your Cake

Now comes the fun part! Generously frost between the layers of cake as well as on top and around the sides.

Step 13: Add Toppings

For an extra special touch, blitz some chocolate-covered espresso beans in a food processor for an optional crunchy topping!

Enjoy every slice of this delightful Double Chocolate Chip Cake with Espresso Cream Cheese Frosting! It’s sure to become a favorite at your table too!

Pro Tips for Making Double Chocolate Chip Cake with Espresso Cream Cheese Frosting

Baking a cake can be a delightful experience, and with these pro tips, you’ll ensure your Double Chocolate Chip Cake turns out perfectly every time!

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This helps create a smoother batter and ensures that the ingredients blend together seamlessly, leading to a fluffier cake.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Once you add the flour mixture, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake, so gentle folding is key to maintaining that light texture.
• Check for Doneness Early: Ovens can vary in temperature, so start checking your cakes at the 22-minute mark. A toothpick should come out clean when they’re ready!
• Allow Cakes to Cool Completely: This is crucial before frosting. If you frost warm cakes, the frosting will melt and slide off, ruining your beautiful creation.
• Use Quality Cocoa Powder and Espresso Morsels: The flavor of your cake depends heavily on the quality of these ingredients. Opt for high-quality brands for an indulgent chocolate experience.

How to Serve Double Chocolate Chip Cake with Espresso Cream Cheese Frosting

Presenting your Double Chocolate Chip Cake doesn’t have to be complicated! Here are some ideas to make it visually appealing and even more delicious.

Garnishes

• Chocolate Shavings: Grate some dark chocolate over the top for an elegant touch that enhances both flavor and presentation.
• Fresh Berries: A handful of raspberries or strawberries adds a pop of color and a refreshing contrast to the rich chocolate.
• Mint Leaves: A few sprigs of fresh mint can brighten up the dish and provide a lovely aromatic finish.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully with the richness of the cake, creating a delightful contrast in flavors.
• Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad made with seasonal fruits offers a refreshing balance to the cake’s indulgence.
• Coffee or Espresso: Serving your cake alongside a hot cup of coffee or espresso enhances its chocolate flavor while providing an excellent afternoon pick-me-up.
• Whipped Coconut Cream: For a dairy-free option, whipped coconut cream adds a light, airy sweetness that complements the rich frosting beautifully.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’ll not only create an unforgettable dessert but also impress anyone lucky enough to enjoy it! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Double Chocolate Chip Cake with Espresso Cream Cheese Frosting is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week or save it for a special occasion. Here’s how to store or freeze any leftovers you might have.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cake to cool completely before storing.
• Place the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• If cut, cover the exposed edges with plastic wrap to retain moisture.

Freezing

• Wrap individual slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place the wrapped cake in a freezer-safe container or bag for extra protection.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Just remember to label it!

Reheating

• To enjoy your frozen cake, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator.
• For a warm slice, microwave on low power for about 15-20 seconds, being careful not to overheat.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delicious Double Chocolate Chip Cake with Espresso Cream Cheese Frosting.

Can I substitute the cocoa powder for another type?

Yes! You can use Dutch-processed cocoa powder if you prefer a slightly different flavor profile. This will still give your cake that rich chocolate experience!

How can I make the espresso cream cheese frosting less sweet?

To reduce sweetness, you can decrease the amount of powdered sugar. Start by reducing it by 1/2 cup and adjust according to taste until you reach your desired sweetness.

What makes this Double Chocolate Chip Cake so special?

This cake combines rich chocolate flavors with delightful espresso morsels, creating a dessert that’s both indulgent and sophisticated. The creamy frosting adds a perfect finishing touch!

Can I add other flavors to the frosting?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment by adding flavors like almond extract or even a hint of orange zest for an exciting twist on the classic espresso flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating this Double Chocolate Chip Cake with Espresso Cream Cheese Frosting! It’s truly a special treat that brings together rich chocolate and coffee flavors in every bite. Don’t hesitate to share your baking journey and any personal touches you add. Happy baking, and may your kitchen be filled with warmth and delicious aromas!