Preparation Steps
1. Prepare the Cake:
- 1. Preheat your oven to $350^\circ\text{F}$ ($175^\circ\text{C}$). Grease and flour two 8-inch square cake pans.
- 2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- 3. In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, buttermilk, oil, and vanilla. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and mix on low speed until just combined.
- 4. Slowly pour in the hot coffee and mix until the batter is smooth. It will be thin.
- 5. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cool for 10 minutes before turning out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
2. Make the Filling:
- 1. In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream until it just simmers. Remove from heat and pour over the chopped dark chocolate. Let stand for 5 minutes, then stir until smooth. Set aside to cool to room temperature.
- 2. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar and beat until light and fluffy.
- 3. Beat in the cooled chocolate mixture and the rum extract until the filling is smooth and spreadable.
3. Assemble the Cake:
- 1. Once the cakes are completely cool, level the tops if necessary.
- 2. Place one cake layer on a serving platter. Spread the entire Chocolate-Rum Cream Filling evenly over the first layer.
- 3. Top with the second cake layer. Cover the entire cake with a simple chocolate ganache or glaze for a professional finish (optional). Chill for at least an hour before slicing.
The Allure of Coffee and Chocolate 🍫
The combination of coffee and chocolate is a culinary pairing dating back centuries; it’s widely believed that adding coffee to chocolate recipes enhances the chocolate’s natural depth and bitterness without adding a strong coffee flavor. In this cake, the mocha sponge acts as the perfect, slightly robust counterpoint to the sweetness and creaminess of the rum-laced filling, creating a symphony of balanced taste. It’s an easy way to elevate your baking prowess!
This Mocha Layer Cake with Chocolate-Rum Cream Filling is truly a showstopper, offering layers of flavor and a richness that satisfies the deepest craving for something sweet and sophisticated. Have you ever tried baking a cake using coffee instead of water? Share your favorite flavor secrets in the comments below!
