Espresso Infused Mocha Poke Cake Recipe

Do you love the bold flavors of coffee and chocolate? If so, then this Espresso Infused Mocha Poke Cake recipe is just for you! This moist, rich cake combines the deep flavors of espresso and chocolate in every bite, making it the ultimate dessert for coffee lovers. Imagine a soft chocolate cake soaked with espresso, topped with a luscious mocha frosting, and finished with chocolate shavings or cocoa powder. It's perfect for gatherings, celebrations, or simply indulging in a café-inspired treat at home. Read on to discover how to make this delectable dessert step-by-step!

What is an Espresso Infused Mocha Poke Cake?

A poke cake is a simple yet indulgent dessert made by baking a cake, poking holes in it, and pouring a liquid mixture over the top to soak into the cake. In this case, we’re combining espresso with chocolate to create a mocha flavor that seeps into every bite of this fluffy, moist cake. The espresso infusion not only enhances the chocolate flavor but also adds a sophisticated coffee note that’s sure to impress. A mocha poke cake is a great way to enjoy a classic pairing of flavors in a unique and delicious way.

---

Ingredients List for Espresso Infused Mocha Poke Cake

For the Chocolate Cake:

• 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup boiling water

For the Espresso Soak:

• 1 cup brewed espresso (or very strong coffee)
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons coffee liqueur (optional, for added flavor)

For the Mocha Frosting:

• 1 ½ cups heavy whipping cream
• ¼ cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon espresso powder
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Topping:

• Chocolate shavings or cocoa powder for garnish
• Chocolate syrup drizzle (optional)

---

Ingredient List for Espresso Infused Mocha Poke Cake

1. Chocolate Cake Ingredients: This combination of flour, cocoa powder, sugar, eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract creates a soft and moist chocolate cake base. The boiling water in the recipe helps to bloom the cocoa powder, enhancing the chocolate flavor.
2. Espresso Soak Ingredients: Strongly brewed espresso or coffee combined with sugar and coffee liqueur (if desired) gives the cake its signature mocha flavor. The soak infuses every layer with a deep, rich coffee taste.
3. Mocha Frosting Ingredients: A whipped cream-based mocha frosting, enhanced with cocoa powder, espresso powder, and a hint of vanilla, provides a creamy, airy topping that complements the rich cake.
4. Toppings: Finish off your cake with a sprinkle of chocolate shavings, cocoa powder, or a drizzle of chocolate syrup for a visually appealing and delicious final touch.

---

Substitutions and Variations

• Cake Mix Shortcut: If you’re short on time, you can use a boxed chocolate cake mix instead of making the cake from scratch. Just follow the instructions on the box, then proceed with the poke cake instructions.
• Decaf Espresso: For a caffeine-free option, use decaf espresso instead of regular espresso to create a delicious, coffee-flavored dessert without the buzz.
• Different Liqueurs: Instead of coffee liqueur, try hazelnut or chocolate liqueur to add a new twist to the espresso soak.
• Non-Dairy Frosting: Substitute coconut cream or a non-dairy whipping cream for the heavy cream in the frosting if you're looking for a dairy-free alternative.

---

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the Cake Batter: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking pan. In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract, and beat on medium speed until smooth. Slowly add the boiling water and mix until the batter is well combined.
2. Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely in the pan.
3. Make the Espresso Soak: While the cake is cooling, brew a cup of strong espresso or coffee. Add the sugar and stir until dissolved. If using coffee liqueur, stir it in at this stage.
4. Poke Holes in the Cake: Using the end of a wooden spoon or a straw, poke holes all over the cooled cake, about 1 inch apart.
5. Add the Espresso Soak: Pour the espresso mixture evenly over the cake, allowing it to seep into the holes. Let the cake rest for 10-15 minutes to absorb the soak fully.
6. Prepare the Mocha Frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, cocoa powder, espresso powder, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to over-whip.
7. Frost the Cake: Spread the mocha frosting evenly over the top of the cake.
8. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chocolate shavings or cocoa powder on top of the frosting, and drizzle with chocolate syrup if desired.

---

How to Cook Espresso Infused Mocha Poke Cake: A Step-by-Step Guide

Cooking an espresso-infused mocha poke cake may sound complex, but it's incredibly simple with this guide. Start by preparing the cake batter, bake, and cool it. Then, create the espresso soak and pour it over the cake. Next, make the mocha frosting and spread it over the cake. Add garnishes like chocolate shavings or syrup, and your cake is ready to enjoy!

---

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not Letting the Cake Cool: Pouring the espresso soak over a hot cake can cause it to become too mushy. Let the cake cool completely first.
• Over-Whipping the Frosting: If you beat the frosting too long, it can become grainy. Stop once you reach stiff peaks.
• Uneven Soak Distribution: Pour the espresso soak evenly over the cake to avoid some areas being too wet while others stay dry.
• Using Weak Coffee: Weak coffee won’t provide a strong mocha flavor. Use espresso or strong brewed coffee for the best results.

---

Serving and Presentation Tips

The Espresso Infused Mocha Poke Cake is best served chilled, which allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Slice the cake into neat squares to show off the soaked layers, and add a garnish of chocolate shavings or a light dusting of cocoa powder on each piece before serving. Serve on a white or black plate to make the rich mocha colors pop.

---

How to Serve Espresso Infused Mocha Poke Cake

For a café-style experience, serve each slice of mocha poke cake with a side of whipped cream or a dollop of vanilla ice cream. Pair it with a freshly brewed cup of coffee, espresso, or a latte for a dessert pairing that highlights the cake’s rich flavors. This cake also makes a fantastic dessert for potlucks, family gatherings, or holiday celebrations.

---

Presentation Ideas for Espresso Infused Mocha Poke Cake

• Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle chocolate syrup across the top of the cake or over individual slices for a beautiful and tasty decoration.
• Dust of Cocoa Powder: Lightly dust cocoa powder over the top to give it an elegant finish.
• Coffee Beans: Place a few whole coffee beans on top of each slice for a sophisticated touch that hints at the cake's espresso flavor.
• Chocolate Shavings: Top with chocolate curls or shavings to enhance the cake's rich, chocolatey appearance.

---

Espresso Infused Mocha Poke Cake Recipe Tips

• Use Fresh Espresso: Freshly brewed espresso will provide a much richer flavor compared to instant coffee. If possible, use high-quality espresso for the best results.
• Chill Before Serving: For best flavor, chill the cake in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving. This helps the espresso soak fully penetrate the cake, making it more flavorful.
• Get Creative with Toppings: Experiment with toppings like crushed cookies, mini chocolate chips, or caramel drizzle to add an extra element to the dessert.

---

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use instant coffee instead of espresso? Yes, you can use instant coffee, but make it very strong for a richer flavor. Espresso is preferred for the best taste.

2. Can I make this cake gluten-free? Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. The texture might be slightly different, but it should still taste delicious.

3. How long will this cake stay fresh? This cake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to cover it tightly to prevent it from drying out.

4. Can I make this cake in advance? Absolutely! In fact, poke cakes taste better the next day as the flavors meld together. Make it a day ahead and refrigerate.

5. Can I freeze the cake? Yes, you can freeze the cake without the frosting. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Thaw it in the refrigerator and add the frosting before serving.

---

Conclusion

This Espresso Infused Mocha Poke Cake is the perfect dessert for coffee and chocolate lovers alike. With its moist, chocolatey cake base infused with rich espresso, and topped with a creamy mocha frosting, each bite is a delightful blend of flavors. This recipe is easy to follow, with options for customization, making it perfect for gatherings or as a make-ahead treat. So why not try baking this unique cake and impress your friends and family with a café-quality dessert at home? Happy baking!

Print