Vanilla Latte Cake with Espresso Buttercream

Name: Vanilla Latte Cake with Espresso Buttercream
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 ½ cups granulated sugar; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup buttermilk; 4 large eggs; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon baking soda; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ cup brewed espresso, cooled; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; ½ cup brewed espresso, cooled; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; A pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Bakery-Style Treat Recipes

Indulge in the delightful fusion of coffee and vanilla with this Vanilla Latte Cake topped with a rich espresso buttercream. Perfect for coffee lovers!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-16T17:46:18.767Z

This Vanilla Latte Cake brings the comforting flavors of your favorite coffee drink into a moist and fluffy cake. Each bite is a delightful combination of vanilla and espresso, making it the perfect treat for any occasion.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich coffee flavor blended with sweet vanilla undertones
Light and fluffy texture that pairs perfectly with creamy buttercream
Ideal for brunches, celebrations, or a cozy afternoon treat

      

The Perfect Balance of Flavors

This Vanilla Latte Cake offers an exquisite balance of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. The rich coffee notes from the espresso blend seamlessly with the sweet aroma of vanilla, creating a cake that's both comforting and indulgent. Each bite is a delightful experience, making it a favorite among coffee enthusiasts and dessert lovers alike.

The cake’s light and fluffy texture is enhanced by the creamy espresso buttercream, which adds a luxurious finish. This combination not only satisfies your sweet cravings but also provides a caffeine boost, making it a perfect treat for brunches or afternoon gatherings. Your guests will be thrilled with this sophisticated dessert that feels both decadent and approachable.

Baking Tips for Success

To achieve the ideal texture for your Vanilla Latte Cake, it’s essential to measure your ingredients accurately. Use the spoon-and-level method for flour to avoid a dense cake. Additionally, ensure your butter is softened to room temperature before creaming it with sugar; this step is crucial for incorporating air into the batter, resulting in a light cake.

Another tip is to allow your espresso to cool completely before adding it to the batter. Hot espresso can affect the temperature of the batter and may alter the final texture of your cake. Lastly, be mindful not to overmix when combining the dry ingredients with the wet; mixing just until combined will help maintain the cake’s fluffiness.

Serving and Storing Your Cake

Once frosted, your Vanilla Latte Cake is best served at room temperature. For an elegant presentation, consider garnishing with chocolate shavings or a sprinkle of cocoa powder. This not only enhances the cake's visual appeal but also complements the coffee and vanilla flavors beautifully.

If you have leftovers, store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. To maintain the cake's moisture, you can place a piece of bread in the container, as it absorbs excess moisture and keeps the cake fresh. For longer storage, consider freezing individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil for up to three months.

Ingredients

For the Cake

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup buttermilk
4 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
½ cup brewed espresso, cooled

For the Espresso Buttercream

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
½ cup brewed espresso, cooled
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
A pinch of salt

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

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.

Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Cream Butter and Sugar

In another bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.

Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Combine with Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with buttermilk and espresso, mixing until just combined.

Bake the Cakes

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool the Cakes

Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then remove from pans and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Make the Buttercream

In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, followed by the espresso and vanilla. Beat until smooth and fluffy.

Frost the Cake

Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate, spread a layer of buttercream on top, then place the second layer on top and frost the entire cake.

Decorate with coffee beans or chocolate shavings for an elegant touch.

Why Espresso Buttercream?

Espresso buttercream is a game-changer in the world of cake frostings. Its rich coffee flavor elevates any dessert, making it a perfect companion for the Vanilla Latte Cake. This frosting is not overly sweet, allowing the natural flavors of the cake to shine through. The creaminess of the buttercream adds a luxurious mouthfeel that contrasts beautifully with the light texture of the cake.

Using brewed espresso in the buttercream not only enhances its flavor but also provides a beautiful, glossy finish. This makes it a visually appealing addition to your cake, enticing guests before they even take a bite. Plus, this frosting is versatile enough to be used on other desserts, making it a worthy addition to your baking repertoire.

Pairing Suggestions

To complement your Vanilla Latte Cake, consider pairing it with a rich cup of coffee or a creamy latte. The combination of flavors will enhance the coffee experience and make for a delightful afternoon treat. Alternatively, a scoop of vanilla ice cream can add a refreshing contrast, especially on warm days.

For a festive twist, serve the cake alongside a glass of dessert wine or a sweet liqueur. This not only elevates the dining experience but also introduces new flavor dimensions to enjoy with each bite of the cake. Whether for a special occasion or a simple gathering, these pairings will surely impress your guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cake layers a day in advance and store them wrapped in plastic in the refrigerator.

→ Can I freeze the cake?

Absolutely! You can freeze the unfrosted cake layers for up to 2 months. Just ensure they are wrapped well.

→ What can I use instead of buttermilk?

You can make a substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice and letting it sit for 5 minutes.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.