Introduction:
A Practical Latte Cake is a delightful fusion of two beloved treats—coffee and cake! This moist, rich, and aromatic cake combines the robust flavor of coffee with the soft, light texture of a traditional sponge cake.
Perfect for coffee lovers, this cake is ideal for any occasion—whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply want a sweet treat to accompany your afternoon coffee.
The recipe is simple yet yields an elegant result that will impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1 tsp baking powder
½ tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
2 large eggs
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup strong brewed coffee (cooled)
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 cup milk
1 tbsp instant coffee granules (optional for a stronger coffee flavor)
For the Coffee Glaze:
1 cup powdered sugar
2 tbsp brewed coffee
1 tsp vanilla extract
For Garnish:
Whipped cream (optional)
Cocoa powder or cinnamon (optional)
Instructions:
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. This will help incorporate air into the batter, making the cake light and tender.
Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Combine Coffee and Milk: In a separate bowl, mix the brewed coffee and milk. If you’d like a stronger coffee flavor, dissolve the instant coffee granules in the coffee before adding it to the milk.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture in three parts, alternating with the coffee-milk mixture. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined—do not overmix.
Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
Cool the Cake: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Make the Coffee Glaze: While the cake is cooling, mix the powdered sugar, brewed coffee, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake.
Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with whipped cream and a dusting of cocoa powder or cinnamon, if desired. Slice, serve, and enjoy your delicious Practical Latte Cake!
Description: This Practical Latte Cake combines the aromatic richness of coffee with the fluffy texture of a classic cake. The cake itself is subtly flavored with coffee, while the sweet coffee glaze adds an extra burst of flavor. This cake is perfect for coffee aficionados who want to enjoy a sweet treat that pairs beautifully with a cup of their favorite brew. The simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions make it a great choice for both beginner and experienced bakers alike.
Tips:
Strong Coffee: Use freshly brewed strong coffee to enhance the coffee flavor of the cake. If you’re looking for an even bolder taste, opt for espresso.
Flour Alternatives: You can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour if you’re making this cake gluten-free.
Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also refrigerate it for up to a week.
Make Ahead: You can prepare the cake a day in advance. It often tastes even better after sitting for a while, as the flavors meld together.
Frosting: If you’d prefer a richer frosting, consider making a coffee-flavored buttercream instead of a glaze.
Variations:
Nutty Latte Cake: Add a cup of finely chopped walnuts or almonds to the batter for a crunchy texture.
Chocolate Latte Cake: Fold in some chocolate chips or drizzle melted chocolate on top for a chocolate-coffee combination.
Vegan Latte Cake: Replace the eggs with flaxseed eggs, use a dairy-free butter substitute, and opt for non-dairy milk and coffee for a vegan version.
Corrections:
If the cake appears too dry, you may need to add a little more milk or coffee, as coffee absorption can vary depending on the type of flour used.
If your cake is too dense, it could be over-mixed. Make sure to mix the wet and dry ingredients until just combined for a lighter texture.
If the glaze doesn’t set as you’d like, add a little more powdered sugar to thicken it up.
Enjoy: Enjoy this delicious and easy-to-make Practical Latte Cake as a perfect treat for any coffee lover. Whether served as a dessert or a delightful afternoon snack, it’s sure to be a hit with anyone who enjoys the bold, comforting taste of coffee combined with a soft, spongy cake!