Few things in life pair as naturally as coffee and cake – but what if the coffee is in the cake? From the humble coffee and walnut sponge to rich espresso-infused brownies, coffee has long held its place as a beloved baking ingredient. In this post, we’ll explore the role of coffee in cakes, why it’s such a magical addition to sweet treats, and how you can incorporate it into your own bakes.
A Perfect Match: Coffee and Cake
Coffee-flavoured cakes have an enduring appeal. For many, they evoke nostalgic memories of teatime classics like coffee and walnut cake – a staple of British home baking and high street cafés. The deep, slightly bitter notes of coffee pair beautifully with sugar and dairy, balancing out sweetness and adding sophistication to desserts.
But coffee’s role in baking goes far beyond flavour alone. It can elevate texture, intensify chocolate, and bring an aromatic depth that other ingredients simply can’t replicate.
Why Bake with Coffee?
Here are just a few reasons bakers love using coffee in their recipes:
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Flavour Enhancement
Coffee naturally enhances other flavours – particularly chocolate. Adding a shot of espresso or a spoonful of instant coffee to a chocolate cake or brownie batter intensifies the cocoa and adds a complexity that takes your bake to the next level. -
Bitterness to Balance Sweetness
Coffee offers a bitter contrast to sugary ingredients, preventing cakes from becoming cloying. It’s especially useful in frostings, where sweetness can easily overwhelm the palate. -
Aromatic Depth
Whether using brewed coffee, espresso powder or coffee extract, the aroma adds an inviting richness that appeals before the first bite is even taken.
Classic Coffee Bakes
If you’re new to baking with coffee, here are a few tried-and-true favourites to start with:
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Coffee and Walnut Cake
A British classic. This light sponge is filled with chopped walnuts and usually layered with coffee buttercream, sometimes the sponge itself also contains coffee. It’s perfect for afternoon tea or a sophisticated birthday cake. Have a look at our take on this traditional cake here. -
Espresso Brownies or Coffee Cookies
A touch of espresso powder in a brownie mix doesn’t make them taste like coffee – it just makes the chocolate flavour bolder and more indulgent. Coffee also works well as an ingredient in cookies, just try our Tiramisu Cookies and you'll see! -
Mocha / Coffee & Chocolate Cake
A mocha cake combines coffee and chocolate in both sponge and frosting – ideal for those who want the best of both worlds. Our Coffee & Chocolate Cake is a great example of this. -
Tiramisu Layer Cake
Inspired by the Italian dessert, this cake uses sponge soaked in strong coffee (often with a splash of liqueur) layered with mascarpone cream. Decadent and perfect for special occasions. Our version of this beautiful cake is one of our bestsellers.
Tips for Baking with Coffee
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Use good-quality instant coffee or espresso powder – it’s easy to dissolve and delivers consistent flavour.
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Brewed coffee should be strong but not overpowering – avoid weak filter coffee which can water down your batter.
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Pair it wisely – coffee works beautifully with nuts, chocolate, caramel, and certain spices like cinnamon or cardamom.
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Experiment in small doses – start with a teaspoon or two in your favourite cake recipe and adjust to taste.
Coffee Flavoured Cakes to Order
If you're strapped for time or not an experienced home baker yet, you can also source a coffee-flavoured cake from a bakery. At Jack & Beyond we offer a variety of cakes for coffee enthusiasts, which are always made with freshly brewed espresso and high-quality British eggs and dairy. Click here to explore the range.
Final Thoughts
Coffee isn’t just for sipping alongside your slice of cake – it deserves a starring role in the mixing bowl as it can beautifully enrichen and balance the sweet flavours in your favourite bakes. Whether you get brewing and baking yourself, or source a high-quality cake from a bakery, you can't go wrong with coffee flavoured cakes and treats!
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