Luxurious Latte Cake with Creamy Coffee Frosting

The Luxurious Latte Cake is the perfect dessert for coffee lovers who crave a rich, moist cake infused with deep espresso flavor and silky creaminess. Inspired by the comforting flavors of a morning latte, this cake layers notes of robust coffee, vanilla, and warm milk into every decadent bite.

It’s a sophisticated yet cozy treat, perfect for brunches, afternoon tea, or elegant gatherings. With a texture that’s light yet indulgent, and a creamy espresso frosting that melts across your tongue, this cake feels like your favorite café beverage — in dessert form.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to indulge in something beautiful and bold, this latte cake delivers the aroma, flavor, and satisfaction of a true coffeehouse dessert.

Ingredients Overview

Dry Ingredients

• All-purpose flour: The base of the batter, creating structure while keeping the cake soft and tender.

• Baking powder + baking soda: A combination that lifts the cake while maintaining a light crumb.

• Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances the coffee notes.

Wet Ingredients

• Eggs: Provide structure and richness — use room temperature eggs for better mixing.

• Granulated sugar & brown sugar: A blend for balanced sweetness with subtle caramel undertones.

• Neutral oil (like canola or vegetable): Keeps the cake ultra-moist and tender.

• Whole milk: Adds richness and helps dissolve the coffee for a smooth flavor.

• Sour cream: Adds moisture and a slight tang, enhancing the latte profile.

• Vanilla extract: Complements the coffee and deepens the dessert’s warmth.

Coffee Component

• Instant espresso powder: Intensifies the flavor without adding extra moisture. Dissolve in hot milk before adding to the batter.

• Optional: brewed espresso or strong coffee: Use in place of some milk for added authenticity and aroma.

Frosting Ingredients

• Unsalted butter: The base of a creamy frosting — room temperature is key.

• Cream cheese or mascarpone: Adds silky texture and mild tang to balance the coffee.

• Powdered sugar: For sweetness and structure.

• Espresso or coffee concentrate: Infuses the frosting with deep latte flavor.

• Vanilla extract + pinch of salt: For rounding out and balancing the taste.

Optional Garnishes

• Cocoa powder dusting

• Chocolate-covered espresso beans

• Caramel drizzle

• Whipped cream swirls

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Coffee Milk

Heat 1 cup of whole milk until steaming. Stir in 1–2 tablespoons of instant espresso powder (adjust based on strength preference) until fully dissolved. Let cool to room temperature before using.

Step 2: Make the Cake Batter

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.

In a large mixing bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

In a separate bowl, beat eggs, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy — about 2 minutes. Slowly stream in the oil while continuing to mix. Add the vanilla extract and sour cream, mixing until smooth.

Alternate adding the flour mixture and coffee milk to the wet ingredients, beginning and ending with flour. Mix just until combined to avoid overworking the batter.

Step 3: Bake the Cakes

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula.

Bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The cakes should have a light golden-brown hue and a soft spring when touched.

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

Step 4: Make the Espresso Frosting

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese (or mascarpone) until fluffy and pale — about 3–4 minutes.

Add the powdered sugar 1 cup at a time, mixing on low speed. Add 1–2 tablespoons of strong brewed espresso or coffee concentrate and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust for strength or sweetness.

Refrigerate frosting for 15 minutes if it feels too soft for spreading.

Step 5: Assemble the Cake

Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a generous layer of espresso frosting over the top.

Add the second layer and frost the top and sides. For a rustic latte look, leave the sides semi-naked or fully frost for a polished finish.

Dust the top with cocoa powder, add piped whipped cream, or drizzle with caramel if desired.

Tips, Variations & Substitutions

Expert Tips

• Use quality espresso powder: It makes a noticeable difference in flavor. Brands like Medaglia D’Oro or King Arthur’s espresso powder are excellent.

• Cool coffee milk fully: Adding hot liquid to the batter can change texture and curdle the eggs.

• Chill the cake before slicing: This helps the frosting firm up and slices stay neat.

Flavor Variations

• Mocha Latte Cake: Add cocoa powder to the batter and chocolate ganache drizzle on top.

• Chai Latte Cake: Swap espresso for steeped chai tea and adjust spices with cinnamon and cardamom.

• Caramel Latte Cake: Fold caramel sauce into the frosting and drizzle extra over the finished cake.

Dietary Adjustments

• Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend with xanthan gum.

• Dairy-Free: Use plant-based milk and dairy-free cream cheese and butter. Ensure your espresso powder is also dairy-free.

• Egg-Free: Replace each egg with a commercial egg replacer or flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg).

Serving Ideas & Occasions

This Luxurious Latte Cake fits beautifully into:

• Brunch celebrations: Pair it with a coffee bar for bridal showers or birthdays.

• Holiday tables: Serve after Christmas dinner or alongside a dessert spread.

• Book clubs or afternoon teas: It’s rich enough to be memorable but not overly heavy.

• Wedding or baby showers: Elegant and versatile, especially with a delicate garnish.

Pair with:

• Espresso, cappuccino, or cold brew.

• Amaretto or coffee liqueur for evening servings.

• Vanilla bean ice cream or cinnamon whipped cream on the side.

Nutritional & Health Notes

While Latte Cake is an indulgent treat, there are ways to make it slightly more balanced:

• Use olive oil or avocado oil for a healthier fat.

• Reduce sugar slightly in both batter and frosting.

• Opt for light cream cheese or Greek yogurt for the frosting base.

The espresso content adds a light caffeine kick — keep in mind for sensitive eaters or kids. One slice offers a good balance of carbohydrates and fats, making it satisfying as a special-occasion dessert.

If you’re looking for a way to satisfy coffee cravings in cake form — this recipe checks all the boxes.

FAQs

Q1: Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes! The cake layers can be made and refrigerated (wrapped) up to 2 days ahead or frozen for up to 1 month. Assemble and frost the day of serving for best freshness.

Q2: How do I keep the cake moist?

Don’t overbake. Also, sour cream and oil help lock in moisture. Storing it in an airtight container or cake dome helps retain softness.

Q3: Can I use brewed coffee instead of espresso powder?

Yes, but reduce the amount of milk slightly to balance the added liquid. Espresso powder gives a more concentrated flavor.

Q4: What if I don’t have cream cheese?

Mascarpone or whipped buttercream also works well. For a more authentic latte flavor, add a spoonful of instant espresso to your frosting base.

Q5: Can this be made into cupcakes?

Absolutely. Fill cupcake liners 2/3 full and bake at 350°F for 18–20 minutes. Top with a swirl of espresso frosting and cocoa powder dust.

Q6: How strong is the coffee flavor?

You control it! Add more or less espresso powder to the batter and frosting depending on your preference. For a lighter taste, cut the amount in half.

Q7: How should leftovers be stored?

Keep the cake in the fridge, tightly covered, for up to 4 days. Bring to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

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