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White Chocolate Mocha Cake

Decadent White Chocolate Mocha Cake for Coffee Lovers

This White Chocolate Mocha Cake combines indulgent flavors of coffee and chocolate, perfect for any celebration.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Cooling Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 12 slices
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

For the Cake
  • 140 g White Chocolate Adds sweetness and a creamy flavor; substitute with white chocolate chips if desired.
  • 1.5 cups Milk Provides moisture for the cake layers; use whole or 2% milk for best results.
  • 1 Tbsp Instant Espresso Powder Enhances the coffee flavor; use decaf if reducing caffeine is desired.
  • 2.5 cups All-Purpose Flour Gives structure to the cake; for gluten-free, substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour.
  • 2.5 tsp Baking Powder Helps the cake rise; ensure it's fresh for optimum effectiveness.
  • 0.5 tsp Salt Balances sweetness.
  • 0.75 cups Unsalted Butter Contributes to texture and flavor; allow to soften to room temperature.
  • 1.5 cups Granulated Sugar Sweetens the cake; can be replaced with coconut sugar for a lower glycemic option.
  • 3 large Eggs Binds ingredients and adds moisture; use room temperature eggs for better incorporation.
  • 1 tsp Vanilla Extract Enhances flavor.
For the Buttercream
  • 3 large Egg Whites Create the Swiss meringue for the buttercream; use fresh eggs for best results.
  • 1.5 cups Granulated Sugar Sweetens and stabilizes the buttercream.
  • 1.5 cups Unsalted Butter Adds creaminess to the buttercream; make sure it's at room temperature.
  • 0.5 Tbsp Instant Espresso Powder Intensifies the coffee flavor in the buttercream.
For the Ganache
  • 150 g Heavy Cream Adds richness to the ganache; can substitute with coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
  • 200 g White Chocolate Used in the ganache to create a luxurious texture; chop finely for easier melting.
For Decoration
  • Coffee Beans Decorative element that enhances the coffee theme.
  • White Nonpareils Add a charming touch to the cake's presentation.
  • Dark Chocolate Crispearls Provide a delightful crunch and elevate the cake's look.

Equipment

  • Microwave
  • Stand mixer
  • Oven
  • Cake Pans
  • Whisk
  • Mixing bowls

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for White Chocolate Mocha Cake
  1. Melt Chocolate and Prepare Espresso: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine 140 g of white chocolate and 1 1/2 cups of milk. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth and fully melted. Mix in 1 tablespoon of instant espresso powder until dissolved, then let it cool to room temperature while you prep the other ingredients.
  2. Preheat Oven and Prepare Pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 6-inch round cake pans, making sure to create a non-stick surface for easy cake removal.
  3. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
  4. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a stand mixer, beat 3/4 cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 1/2 cups of granulated sugar together on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. Next, add in 3 large eggs one at a time, followed by 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
  5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually incorporate the flour mixture into the creamed butter mixture, alternating with the cooled milk and chocolate blend.
  6. Bake the Cake Layers: Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops. Bake for approximately 40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  7. Prepare Buttercream: For the espresso buttercream, fill a saucepan with water and bring it to a simmer. In a heatproof bowl, whisk together 3 large egg whites and 1 1/2 cups of sugar. Place the bowl over the saucepan and whisk until the mixture is hot and the sugar dissolves. Transfer to a stand mixer and beat until stiff peaks form.
  8. Make the Ganache: Combine 200 g of chopped white chocolate and 150 g of heavy cream in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat for about 30 seconds, then stir until fully melted and smooth.
  9. Assemble the Cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of whipped ganache on top, followed by a layer of espresso buttercream. Repeat with the second layer, and place the third layer on top.
  10. Decorate the Cake: Drizzle reserved ganache over the top of the cake and decorate with coffee beans, white nonpareils, and dark chocolate crispearls.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 6gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 120mgFiber: 1gSugar: 35gVitamin A: 500IUCalcium: 100mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Allow eggs and butter to reach room temperature before mixing for better results. Check the freshness of baking powder and avoid overmixing the batter for a tender cake.

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