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: 8 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 baking powder; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; ¼ cup brewed espresso, cooled; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons brewed espresso, cooled; 2 tablespoons milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: FreshGlow Recipes

Indulge in the delightful flavors of coffee and vanilla with this Vanilla Latte Cake topped with a rich espresso buttercream.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-16T17:55:19.156Z

This Vanilla Latte Cake is perfect for coffee lovers. The layers of soft vanilla cake paired with a luscious espresso buttercream create a dessert that’s both elegant and comforting.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Smooth vanilla flavor meets rich coffee undertones.
Moist cake texture with a fluffy buttercream finish.
Ideal for coffee dates or special occasions.

      

The Perfect Blend of Flavors

This Vanilla Latte Cake is a true celebration of the beloved coffeehouse favorite. The cake offers a smooth vanilla flavor intermingled with rich coffee undertones, creating a delightful balance that will please both coffee lovers and dessert enthusiasts. Each bite combines the comforting sweetness of vanilla with the boldness of espresso, making it an irresistible treat for any occasion.

Whether you're enjoying a cozy afternoon at home or hosting a gathering, this cake is sure to impress. The layers of moist cake paired with the creamy espresso buttercream create a stunning visual and flavor experience that will leave your guests asking for seconds. It's the dessert that truly captures the essence of a perfect latte in cake form.

A Moist and Fluffy Delight

One of the standout qualities of this Vanilla Latte Cake is its moist texture. The combination of eggs, milk, and brewed espresso contributes to a cake that is tender and airy. This moisture is crucial, ensuring that each slice remains soft and delectable, even a few days after baking. The fluffy buttercream frosting enhances this experience, adding a luxurious finish that complements the cake beautifully.

The method of alternating wet and dry ingredients during mixing is essential in achieving the ideal texture. By following this technique, you ensure that all elements are evenly incorporated without overmixing, which can lead to a denser cake. The result is a light, fluffy cake that practically melts in your mouth.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This Vanilla Latte Cake is versatile enough for any occasion. Whether it’s a birthday celebration, a coffee date, or a holiday gathering, this cake fits the bill splendidly. Its elegant appearance and delightful flavor profile make it a showstopper on dessert tables, leaving a lasting impression on all who taste it.

Pair it with a cup of coffee or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat. Whether you're serving it at a formal event or a casual get-together, this cake is sure to elevate the experience and make your gathering even more memorable.

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 baking powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
¼ cup brewed espresso, cooled

For the Espresso Buttercream

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
2 tablespoons brewed espresso, cooled
2 tablespoons milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.

Instructions

Prepare the Cake Batter

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

In another bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk and brewed espresso. Mix until just combined.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter evenly into 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. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Make the Espresso Buttercream

In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until smooth. Then, add the brewed espresso, milk, and vanilla extract, and beat until fluffy and well combined.

Assemble the Cake

Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. 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.

Allow the cake to set for at least 30 minutes before slicing to enhance the flavors.

Tips for Success

To ensure your Vanilla Latte Cake turns out perfectly, it's important to measure your ingredients accurately. Using a kitchen scale can help you achieve precise measurements, particularly for flour and sugar. Additionally, room temperature ingredients, such as eggs and butter, mix more easily and contribute to a better texture in the final cake.

Don't rush the cooling process! Allowing the cakes to cool completely before frosting them is crucial to prevent the buttercream from melting and sliding off. You can even chill the cakes in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before frosting to achieve a flawless finish.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Once baked and frosted, the Vanilla Latte Cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider refrigerating it, where it can last for up to a week. Just be sure to let it come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

For an extra touch, consider garnishing the cake with coffee beans, chocolate shavings, or a dusting of cocoa powder. These simple additions can enhance its visual appeal and flavor, making it not just a dessert but a centerpiece for any table.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use instant coffee instead of brewed espresso?

Yes, you can dissolve instant coffee in a small amount of hot water to create a coffee concentrate.

→ 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 make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ Is there a way to make the cake less sweet?

You can reduce the amount of sugar in the cake and buttercream by about 25% for a less sweet flavor.