Mocha Cheesecake Cake

2️⃣ Mocha Cake Layers

1. Prepare pans: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch (23 cm) cake pans.
2. Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar to evenly blend and break up clumps.
3. Add wet ingredients: Pour in the buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla. Beat until fully combined and smooth.
4. Add hot coffee: Slowly mix in the hot coffee. The batter will become thin—this is normal and helps create a very moist cake crumb.
5. Bake: Divide the batter evenly between the pans and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Cool: Cool the cakes in their pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before assembling.

3️⃣ Mocha Frosting

1. Cream the butter: Beat the softened butter until creamy and slightly pale. This helps create a fluffy, light frosting base.
2. Add dry ingredients and liquids: Alternately add the powdered sugar, cocoa powder, dissolved instant coffee, and cream. Mix on low initially to avoid powder splatter.
3. Whip: Increase the speed to medium-high and beat for 2–3 minutes until smooth, fluffy, and spreadable.

4️⃣ Assembling the Cake

1. Start with a mocha layer: Place the first cooled mocha cake layer on your serving plate. Spread a thin, even layer of mocha frosting on top to help the cheesecake adhere.
2. Add the cheesecake: Carefully remove the chilled cheesecake from its springform pan and peel off the parchment. Place the cheesecake directly over the frosted cake layer.
3. Add more frosting: Spread another thin layer of frosting over the cheesecake to create a smooth surface.
4. Top with the second cake layer: Place the final mocha cake layer over the cheesecake, ensuring it sits evenly.
5. Frost the cake: Cover the entire cake with the mocha frosting, smoothing or swirling the surface as desired.
6. Decorate: Add chocolate curls, shavings, and coffee beans on top for a café-style finish.
7. Chill: Refrigerate the assembled cake for at least 1 hour before slicing to help it set and create clean, defined layers.

Notes

• The cheesecake layer must be completely chilled before assembly to avoid cracking or shifting.
• Coffee intensifies chocolate flavor—hot water may be used instead for a milder mocha.
• For a stronger coffee flavor, add an extra teaspoon of instant coffee to either the cheesecake or frosting.