Dark Chocolate Espresso Cake with Brown Butter Frosting

If you’re looking for a dessert that feels like a warm hug, then let me introduce you to my Dark Chocolate Espresso Cake with Brown Butter Frosting. This decadent cake is rich and luxurious, making it perfect for any occasion—from cozy weeknight dinners to festive family gatherings. The combination of dark chocolate and espresso creates a deep, indulgent flavor that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Trust me, once you try this cake, it will quickly become a beloved staple in your home!

This recipe is not just about the cake itself; it’s also about the experience of making it. As you whip up the brown butter frosting, the nutty aroma that fills your kitchen is simply irresistible. It’s a labor of love that’s totally worth it when you take that first bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Rich Flavors: The combination of dark chocolate and espresso elevates this cake beyond your average dessert.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will fall in love with the moist texture and delicious frosting.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Bake the cake in advance and frost it just before serving for easy entertaining.
• Impressive Presentation: Serve it at your next gathering, and watch how it becomes the star of the show!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be pleased to know that this recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful Dark Chocolate Espresso Cake with Brown Butter Frosting:

For the Cake

• 1 1/2 sticks (170g) Unsalted Butter
• 3 double shots (6 oz) Espresso
• 1/2 C (40g) Cocoa Powder
• 1 (3.5 oz) Ghirardelli 72% Cacao Dark Chocolate Bar, roughly chopped
• 1 1/4 C (240g) Light Brown Sugar
• 1/2 Tbsp Bourbon Vanilla Extract
• 1/2 tsp Kosher Salt
• 3 Large Eggs
• 2 Egg Yolks
• 1 C (120g) All Purpose Flour
• 1/2 Tbsp Baking Soda

For the Frosting

• 2 sticks (226g) Unsalted Butter
• 4 C (450g) Powdered Sugar
• 1 tsp Bourbon Vanilla Extract
• 1/2 tsp Kosher Salt
• 3 Tbsp (45ml) Heavy Cream, cold

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with these fun variations:

• Add Nuts: Throw in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and texture.
• Try Different Chocolates: Use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate for a sweeter flavor profile.
• Switch Up the Frosting: A cream cheese frosting would make a tangy twist on this classic dessert.
• Incorporate Spice: Add a pinch of cinnamon or espresso powder to the batter for an extra layer of flavor.

How to Make Dark Chocolate Espresso Cake with Brown Butter Frosting

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350ºF. This step is crucial because starting off with a hot oven ensures that your cake rises beautifully as soon as it goes in.

Step 2: Melt Butter and Espresso

In a small saucepan over low-medium heat, melt your unsalted butter together with espresso. This mixture provides a rich base for our cake. Once melted, remove from heat.

Step 3: Mix in Cocoa and Chocolate

Immediately add cocoa powder and chopped chocolate into the saucepan. The residual heat will melt the chocolate perfectly. Stir until smooth—don’t worry if there are small lumps of cocoa powder; they’ll blend into the batter later.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine dark brown sugar, salt, and vanilla extract. Mixing dry ingredients first helps distribute flavors evenly throughout your batter.

Step 5: Create Your Batter

Pour your warm chocolate mixture into the bowl and whisk until smooth. Next, add eggs and egg yolks one at a time, whisking until shiny—this glossy texture means you’re on the right track!

Step 6: Add Flour and Baking Soda

Gently fold in all-purpose flour and baking soda until fully combined. Avoid overmixing here; we want our cake light and fluffy.

Step 7: Bake Your Cake

Pour your batter into a greased 9×13 baking dish and bake for 22-25 minutes. Keep an eye on it—your toothpick should come out clean when it’s done.

Step 8: Cool Before Frosting

Let your cake cool completely before adding frosting; otherwise, you’ll end up with melted frosting sliding off!

Step 9: Make Brown Butter Frosting

While your cake bakes, prepare the brown butter frosting! Melt unsalted butter in a large saucepan over low-medium heat while stirring constantly. Look for that lovely amber color—this browning process adds amazing flavor.

Step 10: Whip Together Ingredients

Once cooled, mix browned butter with powdered sugar using a stand mixer on low speed initially, then increase speed until smooth. Don’t forget to scrape down those sides!

Step 11: Final Touches

Add vanilla extract, kosher salt, and heavy cream to your frosting mix until combined seamlessly.

Step 12: Frost Your Cake

Spread that luscious brown butter frosting evenly across your cooled cake. Now all that’s left is to slice it up and enjoy every decadent bite!

Baking can bring so much joy—it’s time to share some sweetness with those you love!

Pro Tips for Making Dark Chocolate Espresso Cake with Brown Butter Frosting

Baking is all about precision and love, so here are some tips to ensure your cake turns out absolutely divine!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh eggs and quality chocolate can significantly enhance the flavor of your cake. Always check expiration dates to ensure you’re using the best possible ingredients.
• Measure accurately: Baking is a science! Use a kitchen scale for dry ingredients like flour and sugar for the most precise measurements. This helps achieve the perfect texture in your cake.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Once you add the flour, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake instead of a light, fluffy one.
• Cool completely before frosting: Letting your cake cool entirely prevents the frosting from melting into a gooey mess. This way, you’ll have a beautifully frosted cake that looks as good as it tastes.
• Experiment with flavors: While brown butter frosting is delicious, feel free to add other flavors like espresso powder or citrus zest for an extra twist. Just remember to balance flavors so they complement rather than overpower each other.

How to Serve Dark Chocolate Espresso Cake with Brown Butter Frosting

Presentation is key when it comes to desserts! Here are some delightful ways to serve your Dark Chocolate Espresso Cake with Brown Butter Frosting that will wow your guests.

Garnishes

• Fresh berries: A handful of raspberries or strawberries adds a pop of color and a refreshing tartness that contrasts beautifully with the rich chocolate.
• Chocolate shavings: Use a vegetable peeler on a bar of dark chocolate to create delicate curls that can be sprinkled on top for an elegant touch.
• Mint leaves: A few fresh mint leaves not only add color but also offer a bright flavor that complements the deep chocolate notes.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream provides a luscious contrast to the rich espresso cake and enhances its decadent nature.
• Coffee or Espresso: Serving your cake alongside freshly brewed coffee or espresso amplifies the coffee flavor in the dessert and makes for an indulgent experience.
• Whipped Coconut Cream: For a lighter, dairy-free option, whipped coconut cream adds sweetness and creaminess without overpowering the flavors of the cake.
• Fruit Salad: A simple fruit salad made with seasonal fruits can brighten up your plate and provide a refreshing balance to the richness of the cake.

Enjoy this Dark Chocolate Espresso Cake with Brown Butter Frosting as the star of your dessert table! Whether it’s for a special occasion or just because, this cake is sure to impress.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Dark Chocolate Espresso Cake with Brown Butter Frosting is perfect for meal prep! It can be made ahead of time and will keep well, allowing you to enjoy a slice whenever the craving strikes.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cake to cool completely before storing.
• Cover the cake with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container.
• Keep the cake at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing

• Slice the cake into individual portions for easy thawing.
• Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat, remove a slice from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
• For a quick warm-up, microwave on low power for about 15-20 seconds until just warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious dessert:

Can I use different types of chocolate in the Dark Chocolate Espresso Cake with Brown Butter Frosting?

Absolutely! While dark chocolate gives this cake its rich flavor, you can experiment with semi-sweet or even milk chocolate if you prefer a sweeter taste. Just be mindful that it may alter the overall flavor profile.

What is the best way to store Dark Chocolate Espresso Cake with Brown Butter Frosting?

The best way to store this cake is by covering it with plastic wrap or placing it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for up to a week!

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes! To make a gluten-free version of this Dark Chocolate Espresso Cake with Brown Butter Frosting, simply substitute all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that the blend includes xantham gum for proper texture.

How can I enhance the espresso flavor in my cake?

To enhance the espresso flavor, consider using freshly brewed espresso instead of instant coffee. You can also add an extra shot or two of espresso to your batter if you’re looking for a bolder taste!

Final Thoughts

This Dark Chocolate Espresso Cake with Brown Butter Frosting truly is a special treat that combines rich flavors and comforting textures. I hope you enjoy making this indulgent dessert as much as I do! Share it with friends and family, or savor it all on your own—either way, it’s sure to delight every palate. Happy baking!