Vanilla Latte Cake with Espresso Buttercream

Name: Vanilla Latte Cake with Espresso Buttercream
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup milk; 3 large eggs; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup brewed coffee, cooled; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; 1/4 cup brewed espresso, cooled; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Cozy Desserts

Indulge in the delightful combination of rich coffee flavors and sweet vanilla in this Vanilla Latte Cake topped with a creamy espresso buttercream.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-16T17:38:19.468Z

This Vanilla Latte Cake combines the comforting flavors of vanilla and coffee, making it perfect for any occasion. The espresso buttercream adds a luxurious touch that will impress your guests.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich coffee flavor enhanced by creamy vanilla cake
Decadent espresso buttercream that melts in your mouth
Perfect for coffee lovers and special celebrations

      

The Perfect Balance of Flavors

The Vanilla Latte Cake is a celebration of flavors that perfectly balances the rich, bold taste of coffee with the sweet, comforting notes of vanilla. Each bite offers a delicious contrast, making it an ideal dessert for coffee enthusiasts. The incorporation of brewed coffee into the cake not only intensifies the flavor but also keeps the cake moist and tender. This thoughtful blend creates a cake that is both indulgent and satisfying, perfect for any occasion.

This cake is especially delightful when served alongside your favorite cup of coffee. The combination of the cake’s rich vanilla and coffee notes with a warm beverage creates a harmonious experience that is sure to please both casual dessert lovers and coffee connoisseurs alike.

A Showstopper for Any Celebration

Whether you're celebrating a birthday, anniversary, or just a cozy get-together, the Vanilla Latte Cake is sure to impress your guests. Its elegant appearance, topped with a luscious espresso buttercream, makes it a stunning centerpiece for any dessert table. The cake’s layers and frosting can be decorated with coffee beans or chocolate shavings for an added touch of sophistication, elevating it from a simple treat to a gourmet experience.

Moreover, the rich flavors of the cake lend themselves well to various themes, making it a versatile choice for any occasion. Pair it with themed decorations or specific coffee blends to create a cohesive and delightful experience that your guests will remember long after the last slice is gone.

Baking Tips for Success

To achieve the best results with your Vanilla Latte Cake, ensure all your ingredients are at room temperature before you begin mixing. This small step helps create a smoother batter and contributes to a lighter, fluffier cake. Additionally, when measuring flour, use the spoon-and-level method to avoid packing it down, which can result in a dense cake.

Another crucial tip is to allow the cakes to cool completely before frosting. This prevents the buttercream from melting and sliding off, ensuring you have a beautifully presented cake. If you're short on time, you can refrigerate the cakes to speed up the cooling process, but be sure to wrap them in plastic wrap to keep them moist.

Ingredients

For the Cake

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup milk
3 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup brewed coffee, cooled

For the Espresso Buttercream

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
1/4 cup brewed espresso, cooled
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt

Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans.

Mix the Cake Batter

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk and brewed coffee.

Bake the Cakes

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool the Cakes

Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn them out onto wire racks to cool completely.

Prepare the Espresso Buttercream

In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until well combined. Add the cooled espresso, vanilla extract, and salt, and beat until fluffy.

Assemble the Cake

Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a layer of espresso buttercream on top. Add the second cake layer and frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining buttercream.

Serve and Enjoy

Slice the cake and serve it with a cup of coffee for the ultimate treat!

Enjoy your delicious Vanilla Latte Cake with a side of your favorite coffee!

Storing and Serving

This Vanilla Latte Cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you need to keep it longer, consider refrigerating it, where it can last for up to a week. Just make sure to bring it to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

For serving, slice the cake with a sharp knife and wipe the blade between cuts to ensure clean slices. This will enhance the presentation and make each piece look as delicious as it tastes. Pair each slice with a fresh cup of coffee or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special treat.

Variations to Try

If you're looking to experiment, consider adding a layer of chocolate ganache between the cake layers for a mocha twist. Alternatively, you can infuse the cake with different flavors by adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, which complement the coffee beautifully. Another option is to substitute the vanilla extract with almond extract for a nutty flavor profile.

For a more decadent experience, try adding a layer of caramel sauce between the cake and the buttercream. This added sweetness pairs wonderfully with the coffee and vanilla, making each bite even more indulgent. Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your tastes and preferences.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this cake in advance?

Yes, you can bake the cake layers a day ahead. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them at room temperature.

→ Can I use decaf coffee for this recipe?

Absolutely! Decaf coffee can be used in both the cake and buttercream without any issues.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, you can freeze the cake layers. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil before placing them in the freezer. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.