Go Back
rich chocolate cake with chocolate buttercream slice

Classic Chocolate Layer Cake with Chocolate Buttercream

A rich, moist chocolate layer cake made with hot coffee and topped with a silky chocolate buttercream frosting perfect for all celebrations or whenever a serious chocolate craving strikes.
Prep Time 35 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Resting & Cake Assembly 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 50 minutes
Servings: 14 people
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American

Ingredients
  

For the Chocolate Cake
  • cups all-purpose flour
  • cups granulated sugar
  • 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 3 teaspoons baking soda
  • teaspoons baking powder
  • teaspoons salt
  • cups buttermilk
  • ¾ cup avocado oil or neutral oil
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
  • cups hot brewed coffee
For the Chocolate Buttercream
  • cups salted butter 3 sticks, softened
  • 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 4½ to 5 cups powdered sugar
  • ¼ cup heavy cream
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract.
  4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until combined.
  5. Slowly pour in the hot coffee while stirring. The batter will thin.
  6. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
    chocolate cake batter in cake pans
  7. Bake for 28-32 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  8. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 15 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
  9. To make the frosting, beat the softened butter until smooth. Add the cocoa powder and mix until incorporated.
  10. Gradually add the powdered sugar, followed by the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and salt. Beat until light and fluffy.
  11. Place one cake layer on a cake stand or serving plate. Spread an even layer of frosting on top.
    chocolate cake layering
  12. Add the second cake layer and frost the top and sides of the cake.
    chocolate cake double layer cake
  13. Slice and serve.
    chocolate cake with chocolate buttercream

Notes

  • The coffee enhances the chocolate flavor and does not make the cake taste like coffee.
  • Let the cake cool completely before frosting.
  • If you prefer a less sweet cake, reduce the granulated sugar by ¼ to ½ cup.
  • Store covered at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.