Ingredients:

  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 cup brewed strong coffee (cooled to room temperature)
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 cups powdered sugar
  • ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • ¼ cup brewed strong coffee (cooled)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder. Set aside.
  3. In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy (about 3-5 minutes).
  4. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk and brewed coffee. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined—do not over-mix.
  6. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
  7. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  8. Remove from the oven and let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
  9. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy using an electric mixer.
  10. Gradually add the powdered sugar and cocoa powder, mixing on low speed until combined.
  11. Add the brewed coffee and vanilla extract, and mix on medium speed until the frosting is smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed.
  12. Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate and spread a generous amount of mocha buttercream frosting over the top.
  13. Place the second cake layer on top and spread frosting over the entire cake. Use a spatula to create smooth or textured finishes as you prefer.
  14. Optionally, decorate the top with chocolate shavings, coffee beans, or a dusting of cocoa powder.