Ingredients

For the Chocolate Cake:
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

2 tablespoons granulated sugar

3/4 teaspoon unsweetened cocoa powder

2 teaspoons instant coffee granules

1/2 cup baking soda dissolved in brewed coffee

1 cup sweetened brewed coffee

1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened

1/2 tablespoon vegetable oil

2 large eggs, room temperature

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

1 tablespoon hot water

For the Cream Filling:
1/2 cup heavy cream

1/2 teaspoon powdered sugar

8 ounces softened cream cheese

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Chocolate Ganache:
8 ounces semi-sweet or dark chocolate, finely chopped

1/2 cup heavy cream

Optional: a dab of buttercream for a glossy finish

For the Optional White Chocolate or Vanilla Drizzle:
1/2 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened

2 tablespoons powdered sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

2–3 tablespoons heavy cream

4 ounces melted and cooled white chocolate (optional)

Instructions

 

Instructions
Make the Chocolate Cake:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans.

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, instant coffee, baking soda mixture, and a pinch of salt.

Add in the brewed coffee, butter, oil, eggs, vanilla extract, and hot water. Mix on low speed just until smooth—avoid overmixing.

Evenly pour the batter into the prepared cake pans.

Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Allow cakes to cool in pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Prepare the Cream Filling:
In a bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth.

Add vanilla, powdered sugar, and heavy cream. Mix until light and fluffy. Refrigerate until ready to use.

Make the Ganache:
Heat heavy cream just until simmering. Pour over the chopped chocolate and let sit for 2 minutes.

Stir until smooth. For extra shine, add a spoonful of buttercream if desired. Let cool slightly before using.

(Optional) Prepare Vanilla or White Chocolate Drizzle:
Mix melted white chocolate with butter, powdered sugar, vanilla, and heavy cream. Whisk until smooth and slightly pourable.

Assemble the Cake:
Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread the cream filling evenly over the top.

Add the second cake layer, then pour the ganache over the top, letting it drip down the sides.

(Optional) Drizzle the white chocolate glaze over the ganache for a decorative touch.

Chill for 15–20 minutes before serving for best results.

Enjoy your rich, elegant chocolate layer cake—perfect for special occasions or any time you need a decadent treat!