Mocha Layer Cake with Chocolate-Rum Cream Filling

Here’s a decadent recipe for Mocha Layer Cake with Chocolate-Rum Cream Filling that is sure to impress!

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1 tablespoon instant coffee granules (or espresso powder)

For the Chocolate-Rum Cream Filling:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 tablespoons dark rum (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Frosting (optional):

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cake:

   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk until well combined.
   • In another bowl, mix the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Add this mixture to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
   • Dissolve the instant coffee granules in the boiling water and carefully add it to the batter. Mix until smooth (the batter will be thin).
   • Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
   • Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.

2. Prepare the Chocolate-Rum Cream Filling:

   • In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form.
   • Gradually add the powdered sugar and cocoa powder, continuing to whip until well combined.
   • Add the dark rum and vanilla extract, and whip until stiff peaks form.

3. Assemble the Cake:

   • Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of the chocolate-rum cream filling on top.
   • Place the second cake layer on top and spread more filling on top. If desired, you can also fill the sides.

4. Prepare the Frosting (optional):

   • In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and cocoa powder, mixing until combined.
   • Add the heavy cream and vanilla extract, and beat until the frosting is light and fluffy.
   • Frost the top and sides of the cake with the chocolate frosting.

5. Serve:

   • Slice the cake and serve. Enjoy the rich flavors of mocha and chocolate with a hint of rum!

Enjoy!

This Mocha Layer Cake with Chocolate-Rum Cream Filling is a delightful dessert that combines rich chocolate flavors with a creamy filling, perfect for any celebration or special occasion!