Date Night Chocolate Cake Recipe
Introduction
This Date Night Chocolate Cake is a rich, moist treat perfect for sharing with someone special. Made with a blend of cocoa and coffee for depth, it’s topped with a luscious chocolate cream cheese frosting that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup whole buttermilk
- 1/2 cup warm black coffee
- Optional: sprinkles, strawberries, chocolate shavings for garnish
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 4 ounces block-style cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1 cup + 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/8 teaspoon (small pinch) kosher salt
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Generously spray an 8-inch round baking pan with baking spray and line it with fitted parchment paper. Spray the parchment paper again and set the pan aside.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until fully combined.
- Step 3: Add the egg, vanilla extract, vegetable oil, buttermilk, and warm black coffee to the dry ingredients. Whisk gently until just combined, taking care not to overmix. Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
- Step 4: Bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cake rest in the pan for 10 minutes, then invert it onto a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.
- Step 5: To prepare the frosting, beat the softened butter and cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
- Step 6: Reduce the mixer speed to low and gradually add the powdered sugar. Beat for 2-3 minutes until fully combined.
- Step 7: Add the cocoa powder, then mix until fully incorporated. Finally, add vanilla extract and salt, mixing once more to combine.
- Step 8: Frost the cooled cake evenly. Garnish with sprinkles, strawberries, or chocolate shavings if desired. Slice and enjoy!
Tips & Variations
- Use freshly brewed coffee for the best flavor; it enhances the chocolate richness without a strong coffee taste.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute coconut oil for vegetable oil and use non-dairy cream cheese and milk alternatives.
- If you don’t have buttermilk, mix 1/2 cup milk with 1/2 teaspoon vinegar or lemon juice and let sit for 5 minutes.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or chili powder to the batter for a subtle spicy twist.
Storage
Store the frosted cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Bring it to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor. You can also freeze the unfrosted cake wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months; thaw completely before frosting.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use instant coffee instead of brewed coffee?
Yes, dissolve 1/2 cup of hot water with instant coffee powder and use this mixture in place of warm black coffee in the recipe.
What if I don’t have cream cheese for the frosting?
You can substitute with mascarpone cheese or make a simple chocolate buttercream by replacing cream cheese with extra butter and a splash of milk.
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Date Night Chocolate Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
This Date Night Chocolate Cake is a rich, moist chocolate cake perfect for a romantic evening or any special occasion. Made with pantry staples and enhanced with warm black coffee for depth, it’s topped with a luscious chocolate cream cheese frosting that adds creamy sweetness and tang. Garnish with sprinkles, strawberries, or chocolate shavings for an extra touch of elegance.
Ingredients
Cake Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup whole buttermilk
- 1/2 cup warm black coffee
Frosting Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 4 ounces block-style cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1 cup + 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/8 teaspoon (small pinch) kosher salt
Optional Garnishes
- Sprinkles
- Strawberries
- Chocolate shavings
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Generously spray an 8-inch round baking pan with baking spray. Line the pan with fitted parchment paper, then spray the parchment paper as well to ensure easy cake removal.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and kosher salt until fully incorporated.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Add the egg, vanilla extract, vegetable oil, buttermilk, and warm black coffee to the dry mixture. Whisk gently until just combined, being careful not to overmix to keep the cake tender.
- Pour and Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top slightly. Bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to rest in the pan for 10 minutes after baking.
- Cool Cake: Carefully invert the cake onto a wire rack and allow it to cool completely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
- Make the Frosting: Using an electric mixer on medium speed, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes. Reduce speed to low and gradually add the powdered sugar, continuing to beat for 2-3 minutes until smooth.
- Add Cocoa and Flavorings: Beat in the cocoa powder until fully incorporated. Finally, add the vanilla extract and a small pinch of kosher salt, mixing once more to combine evenly.
- Frost and Garnish: Spread the chocolate cream cheese frosting over the cooled cake evenly. Garnish with sprinkles, strawberries, or chocolate shavings as desired. Slice and serve to enjoy!
Notes
- Ensure ingredients like butter and cream cheese are at room temperature for a smooth frosting.
- Do not overmix the batter to maintain a light and moist cake texture.
- Use warm black coffee to intensify the chocolate flavor without adding bitterness.
- Allow cake to cool completely before frosting for best results.
- Substitute whole buttermilk with milk plus 1 teaspoon lemon juice if needed.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: chocolate cake, date night dessert, chocolate cream cheese frosting, easy chocolate cake, moist chocolate cake, homemade chocolate cake
