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 tablespoons instant coffee granules; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; 1/4 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons espresso or strong brewed coffee, cooled; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Indulge in the delightful flavors of coffee and vanilla with this Vanilla Latte Cake topped with a rich Espresso Buttercream. Perfect for coffee lovers and dessert enthusiasts alike!

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2025-12-16T17:51:19.276Z

This Vanilla Latte Cake is a perfect blend of rich vanilla and aromatic espresso flavors, creating a delightful dessert that pairs beautifully with your favorite cup of coffee. The moist cake layers are enveloped in a creamy espresso buttercream, making it an irresistible treat for any occasion.

        Why You'll Love This Cake
        Moist and fluffy cake infused with real coffee flavor
Decadent espresso buttercream that adds the perfect finishing touch
Beautifully layered presentation for impressive serving

      

A Perfect Blend of Flavors

The Vanilla Latte Cake is a delightful fusion of rich coffee and sweet vanilla, making it a dream come true for dessert lovers. Each bite offers a soft, moist texture that captivates the palate. The addition of instant coffee granules enhances the cake's flavor profile, ensuring that the taste of coffee shines through without being overpowering.

Topped with a creamy Espresso Buttercream, this cake takes indulgence to another level. The buttercream is not only smooth and velvety but also packed with a rich espresso flavor that complements the vanilla cake beautifully. This combination is sure to impress at any gathering, elevating your dessert game.

A Showstopper for Any Occasion

Whether you're celebrating a birthday, hosting a brunch, or simply treating yourself, the Vanilla Latte Cake is an ideal choice. Its stunning layered presentation makes it a showstopper that will capture attention and admiration from your guests. The contrasting colors of the golden cake and dark espresso frosting create a visually appealing dessert that invites everyone to dig in.

Additionally, this cake is versatile enough to be enjoyed year-round. Pair it with a cup of coffee in the morning, or serve it as a delightful dessert after dinner. No matter the occasion, this cake is sure to leave lasting impressions.

Tips for Baking Success

To ensure your Vanilla Latte Cake turns out perfectly, be sure to measure your ingredients accurately. Using the correct amounts of flour and sugar is crucial for achieving that ideal fluffy texture. Also, don't skip the step of creaming the butter and sugar together until light and airy; this helps to incorporate air into the batter and leads to a lighter cake.

Another key tip is to allow your cakes to cool completely before frosting. This prevents the buttercream from melting and sliding off, ensuring that you achieve a beautifully frosted cake. If you want to add an extra touch, consider garnishing with chocolate shavings or a sprinkle of cocoa powder for an elegant finish.

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 tablespoons instant coffee granules
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Espresso Buttercream

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
1/4 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons espresso or strong brewed coffee, cooled
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Make sure to gather all your ingredients before starting for a smooth baking experience!

Instructions

Prepare the Cake Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and milk.

In another bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, salt, and instant coffee granules. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.

Bake the Cake

Divide the batter evenly between two greased and floured 9-inch round cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.

Make the Espresso Buttercream

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, heavy cream, espresso, and vanilla extract. Beat on high speed until the mixture is smooth and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.

Assemble the Cake

Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate and spread a generous amount of espresso buttercream on top. Place the second layer on top and frost the entire cake with the remaining buttercream. Decorate as desired.

Slice and serve your delicious Vanilla Latte Cake with Espresso Buttercream for a delightful treat!

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Once you've baked your Vanilla Latte Cake, it's important to store it properly to maintain its freshness. Keep the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you’d like to store it longer, consider refrigerating it, which can extend its life for up to a week. Just be sure to bring it back to room temperature before serving for the best taste.

For serving, pair slices of the cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to enhance the coffee and vanilla flavors. This cake also pairs perfectly with a cup of your favorite brewed coffee, making it an ideal choice for a cozy afternoon treat.

Variations to Try

While the classic Vanilla Latte Cake is delicious as is, you can experiment with different flavors to suit your palate. Try adding a hint of almond extract for a nutty undertone or incorporating chocolate for a mocha twist. You can also fold in chocolate chips or nuts for added texture and flavor.

For a seasonal variation, consider adding pumpkin spice in the autumn or peppermint extract during the winter holidays. These simple modifications can make the cake feel fresh and exciting, allowing you to enjoy this recipe all year round.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use decaf coffee for this recipe?

Yes, feel free to use decaf coffee if you prefer a caffeine-free option.

→ How should I store the cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

→ Can I freeze the cake?

Yes, you can freeze the cake layers wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 3 months. Thaw before frosting.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream in the frosting?

You can use milk or a non-dairy milk alternative, but the texture may vary.