Name: Chocolate Espresso Bundt Cake with Coffee-Infused Frosting Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup brewed coffee, hot; 3/4 cup Dutch processed cocoa powder; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 2 cups granulated sugar; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon salt; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 2 cups powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 teaspoons instant espresso powder; Up to 1/2 cup heavy cream

If you’re a fan of rich, bold flavors with a touch of elegance, then you are absolutely going to love this Chocolate Espresso Bundt Cake with Coffee-Infused Frosting Recipe. It’s not just any chocolate cake—it’s a symphony of deep cocoa and robust espresso, tender crumb hugged by a creamy frosting that carries a lovely coffee kick. Every bite feels like a cozy embrace, perfect for a special dessert or a delightful afternoon treat with friends. Prepare to indulge in a moist, luscious cake that strikes the perfect harmony between chocolate and coffee flavors.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl sits on a white marbled surface, containing three layers of ingredients that are not yet mixed. The bottom layer is a dark brown liquid chocolate mixture, smooth and glossy. On top of this, on the left side, there's a bright white layer of granulated sugar, powdery and fine. To the right, a mound of pale white flour with a soft, powdery texture completes the mix. A metal whisk with a white handle rests inside the bowl, touching the layers with its wires. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting the ingredients right is crucial in this recipe, but don’t worry—it’s surprisingly simple! Each component plays a special role, from the moisture and texture provided by the heavy cream and vegetable oil to the rich color and depth contributed by Dutch processed cocoa powder. Even the instant espresso powder in the frosting adds a subtle sparkle that elevates the entire cake.

1 cup brewed coffee, hot: The base for that coffee flavor, bringing warmth and depth.
3/4 cup Dutch processed cocoa powder: Gives the cake its intense, smooth chocolate flavor and rich color.
1 cup heavy cream: Adds moisture and a tender crumb to the cake batter.
1/2 cup vegetable oil: Keeps the cake soft and beautifully moist without overpowering flavors.
2 large eggs: Essential for structure and binding the ingredients together.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a warm, sweet undertone balancing the coffee and chocolate.
2 cups flour: The sturdy base that gives the cake its shape and texture.
2 cups sugar: Sweetens and helps with the tenderness in the crumb.
2 teaspoons baking powder: Helps the cake rise, making it light and fluffy.
1 teaspoon baking soda: Works with the acidic cocoa and coffee for lift and softness.
1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors, especially chocolate.
8 oz cream cheese, softened: For the luscious frosting base, adding tang and creaminess.
2 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting and smooths its texture.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses the frosting with a subtle sweetness and warmth.
2 teaspoons instant espresso powder: Boosts the coffee flavor in the frosting, making it crave-worthy.
Up to 1/2 cup heavy cream: Adjusts frosting consistency, making it perfect for pouring and draping over your bundt cake.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Chocolate Espresso Bundt Cake with Coffee-Infused Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Coffee-Cocoa Mixture

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit, setting the perfect environment for baking. In a small bowl, whisk the hot brewed coffee with the Dutch processed cocoa powder until completely smooth and lump-free. This mixture is the secret to infusing the cake with that lovely espresso-chocolate essence you’re craving. Let it cool slightly while you move to the next step.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

Next, in a larger bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, vegetable oil, and eggs until everything has melded into a smooth, silky blend. Stir in the vanilla extract, then fold in the cooled coffee and cocoa mixture gently but thoroughly. This step ensures every bite of the cake will be rich and evenly flavored, with delightful moisture and tenderness.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients and Batter

Incorporate the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt directly into the wet ingredients. Whisk everything together until you have a smooth, lump-free batter. It should be thick but pourable, hinting at the moist and dense crumb that awaits. Pour the batter carefully into a very well-greased bundt cake pan, smoothing the top so it bakes evenly.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Bake your cake for about 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. This timing is key to achieving a tender and moist interior without overbaking. Once done, allow the cake to cool in the pan for only a few minutes—you want it to loosen a little to prevent sticking, but not cool so long it clings. Then gently invert onto a wire rack to cool completely, preparing for that beautiful frosting.

Step 5: Make the Coffee-Infused Frosting

While your cake cools, it’s time to whip up the luscious frosting that makes this Chocolate Espresso Bundt Cake with Coffee-Infused Frosting Recipe truly special. Beat the softened cream cheese on medium speed in an electric mixer until it’s fluffy and light. Gradually incorporate powdered sugar, one cup at a time, until the frosting is smooth and creamy. Blend in vanilla and instant espresso powder, then fold in small amounts of heavy cream until the consistency is pourable but still thick enough to coat the cake beautifully.

Step 6: Frost and Finish

Pour the frosting generously over the cooled bundt cake, letting it cascade and pool along the sides for a gorgeous presentation. The pairing of the rich chocolate cake with that silky, coffee-infused frosting will have everyone asking for seconds, guaranteed. Now, dive in or save for a special occasion!

How to Serve Chocolate Espresso Bundt Cake with Coffee-Infused Frosting Recipe

The image shows a round bundt cake sliced into nine pieces, placed on a piece of parchment paper on a white marbled surface. The cake has two layers: a dark brown, moist-looking chocolate cake layer at the base and a thick, smooth, light brown frosting layer on top that is slightly wavy and glossy. One slice is pulled slightly away from the circle, displaying the rich dark cake inside and the thick frosting layer on top. Around the cake, there are silver decorative snowflake ornaments and thin warm fairy lights, adding a festive touch. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate the cake’s look and flavor, consider topping it with a few chocolate shavings, a dusting of cocoa powder, or even a sprinkle of finely chopped toasted nuts. A few fresh raspberries or a light dusting of powdered sugar can add a fresh and elegant contrast to the bold flavors.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. For a more decadent experience, a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce on the side complements the coffee and chocolate notes splendidly. If you’re serving it for brunch, a side of fresh fruit or a zesty citrus salad balances the richness.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider serving individual slices with espresso shots or a rich latte for a cafe-style experience right at home. For celebratory occasions, place the cake on a beautiful cake stand and surround it with coffee beans or small cups of coffee for an interactive dessert table. You can also pipe a little extra frosting around the edge for an elegant finish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This bundt cake stays wonderfully moist when stored properly. Keep leftovers covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If your kitchen is warm, refrigeration is better to prevent the frosting from melting, but allow the cake to come to room temperature before serving to enjoy the best texture.

Freezing

You can freeze the baked cake before frosting it by wrapping it well in plastic wrap and then foil, freezing for up to 2 months. To freeze the frosted cake, place it on a tray until the frosting sets firm and then wrap carefully. Thaw overnight in the fridge to preserve the wonderful flavors and moisture.

Reheating

While this cake tastes amazing cold or at room temperature, you can gently warm a slice in the microwave for 15-20 seconds to revive that fresh-baked feel. Just be sure not to overheat it, or the frosting could lose its texture and taste.

FAQs

Can I use instant coffee instead of brewed coffee?

Yes, you can substitute instant coffee dissolved in hot water for brewed coffee. Just be sure to use strong coffee to maintain that bold espresso flavor that’s essential to this recipe.

Is this cake gluten-free?

This Chocolate Espresso Bundt Cake with Coffee-Infused Frosting Recipe calls for regular flour, so it is not gluten-free. However, you can try substituting with a gluten-free flour blend, but results may vary slightly in texture.

Can I make the frosting dairy-free?

For a dairy-free option, you could experiment with vegan cream cheese and a non-dairy heavy cream substitute. Keep in mind that flavor and consistency might change, so adjust as needed.

How do I prevent the bundt cake from sticking to the pan?

Greasing the bundt pan really well with butter or a non-stick spray, and lightly dusting with cocoa powder helps. Also, allowing the cake to cool a few minutes before turning it out ensures it releases cleanly without breaking.

What is the best way to store leftover frosting?

Leftover frosting should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and can last for up to a week. Before reusing, allow it to come to room temperature and give it a quick whisk to restore creaminess.

Final Thoughts

This Chocolate Espresso Bundt Cake with Coffee-Infused Frosting Recipe is one of those rare treats that feels both indulgent and comforting at the same time. It’s perfect for any occasion where you want to impress without stress. The beautiful meld of coffee and chocolate brings a grown-up twist to a classic cake, and the silky frosting adds that extra touch of love. I can’t wait for you to try this at home and experience the magic in every bite!

Chocolate Espresso Bundt Cake with Coffee-Infused Frosting Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need