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: 12 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 vanilla extract; 1 tablespoon instant coffee granules; 2 teaspoons baking powder; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons espresso, cooled; 2 tablespoons milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Flour & Frosting Recipes

Indulge in the delightful harmony of flavors with this Vanilla Latte Cake topped with a rich Espresso Buttercream. Perfect for coffee lovers!

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2025-12-16T17:41:18.349Z

This Vanilla Latte Cake is a delightful blend of classic flavors that will transport you to your favorite coffee shop. The moist vanilla cake is infused with coffee, making it a perfect treat for any coffee enthusiast.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich coffee flavor balanced with sweet vanilla notes
Creamy espresso buttercream that complements the cake perfectly
Ideal for coffee lovers and special occasions

      

The Perfect Balance of Flavors

This Vanilla Latte Cake is a celebration of the beloved coffee and vanilla combination that is sure to please any palate. The cake itself is moist and fluffy, with a rich coffee flavor that is perfectly complemented by the sweetness of the vanilla. Each bite offers a delightful blend of warmth and comfort, reminiscent of your favorite café drink.

The addition of instant coffee granules in the batter infuses the cake with a deep coffee essence, creating a harmonious balance that coffee aficionados will adore. The vanilla extract enhances the cake’s flavor profile, providing an aromatic sweetness that elevates the overall taste experience. Together, these ingredients create a cake that is not only delicious but also incredibly satisfying.

A Buttercream Dream

No cake is complete without the perfect frosting, and this Espresso Buttercream takes it to the next level. Made with high-quality ingredients, this buttercream is rich, creamy, and bursting with espresso flavor. It’s the ideal topping for our Vanilla Latte Cake, ensuring that every slice is indulgently covered.

The buttercream is easy to make, requiring just a handful of ingredients. As you beat together the softened butter and powdered sugar, the texture becomes light and fluffy, making it easy to spread and decorate. The addition of cooled espresso enhances the flavor, providing a delightful kick that pairs beautifully with the cake, making it a true showstopper for any occasion.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This Vanilla Latte Cake with Espresso Buttercream is versatile enough for any celebration. Whether you're hosting a birthday party, a brunch gathering, or a special holiday event, this cake is sure to impress your guests. Its elegant appearance and rich flavors make it a standout dessert that everyone will love.

Moreover, this cake is not just for special occasions. It can easily be enjoyed as a delightful treat with your morning coffee or as a sweet afternoon pick-me-up. So, whether you’re celebrating or simply indulging, this cake is the perfect choice for coffee lovers and dessert enthusiasts alike.

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 vanilla extract
1 tablespoon instant coffee granules
2 teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon salt

For the Espresso Buttercream

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

Make sure to have all your ingredients measured and ready to go for the best results.

Instructions

Prepare the Cake Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add in the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and instant coffee granules, mixing until well combined.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.

Bake the Cake

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

Make the Espresso Buttercream

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing well. Add the cooled espresso, milk, and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until the mixture is light and fluffy.

Assemble the Cake

Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of espresso buttercream on top, then place the second cake layer on top. Frost the entire cake with the remaining buttercream. Decorate as desired.

Enjoy your homemade Vanilla Latte Cake with a cup of coffee!

Tips for Baking Success

To ensure your Vanilla Latte Cake turns out perfectly, make sure to accurately measure your ingredients. Baking is a science, and even slight variations can affect the final product. Use the spoon-and-level method for flour and always check expiration dates on your baking powder and coffee granules to guarantee freshness.

Additionally, when creaming the butter and sugar, take your time. Beat the mixture until it’s light and fluffy, which helps incorporate air and ensures a lighter cake. Also, don’t skip the cooling step; allowing the cakes to cool completely before frosting is crucial for achieving a beautiful and tidy finish.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Once your cake is assembled, it can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you need to keep it longer, consider refrigerating it for up to a week. To serve, allow the cake to come to room temperature for the best flavor and texture.

For an extra special touch, consider garnishing your cake with chocolate shavings or coffee beans. This not only adds a decorative element but also enhances the coffee flavor profile. Pair your cake with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or espresso for the ultimate coffee-themed dessert experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use decaf coffee granules?

Yes, feel free to use decaf coffee granules if you prefer a caffeine-free option.

→ How should I store the cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the cakes a day in advance and frost them just before serving.

→ What can I substitute for milk?

You can use almond milk, oat milk, or any milk of your choice as a substitute.