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 ½ cups granulated sugar; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup milk; 3 large eggs; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon baking soda; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon instant coffee granules; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; ¼ cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons espresso, brewed and cooled; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Sweet Recipe Collection

Indulge in the delightful flavors of coffee and vanilla with this moist Vanilla Latte Cake, perfectly complemented by a rich Espresso Buttercream frosting.

Created by

Luca

Last updated on 2025-12-16T17:54:19.091Z

This Vanilla Latte Cake is a perfect celebration of flavors, combining the classic taste of vanilla with the rich aroma of espresso. It's an ideal dessert for coffee lovers!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich vanilla flavor with a hint of coffee
Moist and fluffy cake texture
Perfect for coffee lovers and special occasions

      

A Perfectly Balanced Flavor

This Vanilla Latte Cake beautifully captures the essence of your favorite coffee shop beverage. The combination of rich vanilla and subtle coffee notes creates a harmonious blend that is both comforting and indulgent. Each slice of this cake is a perfect treat for coffee enthusiasts, offering a delightful experience that transcends the ordinary dessert.

The addition of instant coffee granules in the cake batter enhances the overall flavor profile without overpowering the vanilla. This thoughtful balance makes the cake suitable for various occasions, from casual gatherings to elegant celebrations, ensuring that it will please a crowd. It's the ideal way to satisfy both cake lovers and coffee aficionados alike.

Textural Delight

One of the standout features of this Vanilla Latte Cake is its moist and fluffy texture. Achieving the perfect cake consistency can be challenging, but this recipe ensures a tender crumb that melts in your mouth. The combination of eggs and milk contributes to the cake's moisture, while the creaming method helps incorporate air, leading to a light and airy result.

The Espresso Buttercream adds a luxurious finish to the cake, with its creamy and smooth texture complementing the cake layers perfectly. This combination not only enhances the visual appeal but also provides a delightful contrast to the cake's softness, making each bite a delightful experience.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you're hosting a birthday party, celebrating an anniversary, or just want to treat yourself, this Vanilla Latte Cake is an excellent choice. Its elegant design and rich flavors make it a showstopper at any event. You can easily customize it with seasonal decorations or toppings, making it versatile for all celebrations.

Furthermore, this cake pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea, making it a lovely addition to afternoon gatherings. Serve it alongside your favorite brew for a complete coffee experience that will have your guests raving about your baking skills. It's not just a cake; it's a delightful treat that brings people together.

Ingredients

For the Cake

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup milk
3 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon instant coffee granules

For the Espresso Buttercream

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
¼ cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons espresso, brewed and cooled
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Make sure to measure ingredients accurately for the best results!

Instructions

Prepare the Cake Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and 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, baking soda, salt, and instant coffee granules. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix 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 into the center comes out clean. Allow cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Make the Espresso Buttercream

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing well. Pour in the heavy cream, brewed espresso, and vanilla extract, and beat until the mixture is light and fluffy.

Assemble the Cake

Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of espresso buttercream on top, then place the second cake layer on top. Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining buttercream.

Let the cake sit for about 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Tips for Success

To ensure your Vanilla Latte Cake turns out perfectly, always use room temperature ingredients. This helps to create a smoother batter and a more evenly baked cake. Additionally, be sure to measure your flour correctly by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off with a knife. This prevents the cake from becoming dense due to excess flour.

Another key tip is to avoid overmixing the batter after adding the dry ingredients. Mixing just until combined helps maintain the cake's light texture. If you notice lumps, that’s okay—those will usually bake out during the cooking process.

Storing and Serving

After baking, store any leftover Vanilla Latte Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you wish to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week. For best results, allow the cake to come to room temperature before serving, as this enhances the flavors and texture.

If you're planning to make the cake ahead of time, you can freeze it before frosting. Wrap the cooled cake layers tightly in plastic wrap and store them in the freezer for up to two months. When you're ready to serve, simply thaw the layers in the refrigerator overnight before frosting and enjoying.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use decaf coffee for this recipe?

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

→ How should I store the cake?

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

→ Can I freeze the cake?

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

→ What can I substitute for the heavy cream?

You can substitute heavy cream with milk, but the texture may be slightly less creamy.