Buttercream Coffee Soaked Holiday Cake Recipe

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 10

Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ cups sugar
  • 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 cup strong brewed coffee (cooled)
  • 1 tablespoon instant espresso powder
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup whole milk

For the Buttercream Frosting

  • 1 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
  • 4 cups powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons brewed coffee
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 8-inch round cake pans. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, espresso powder, and salt. Alternate adding the dry ingredients and milk into the creamed mixture, stirring gently until smooth. Add the cooled coffee last and mix until the batter is fully combined. Pour the batter evenly into the pans and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool on a wire rack before frosting.

For the buttercream frosting, beat the butter until creamy and pale. Gradually add powdered sugar, brewed coffee, vanilla, and salt, continuing to whip until the texture becomes smooth and fluffy. Once the cakes have cooled, spread a layer of buttercream between them and then cover the top and sides with the remaining frosting. Optionally, drizzle warm espresso or coffee syrup over each layer before frosting to intensify the flavor and moisture.

History of Coffee Cake and Buttercream

The tradition of coffee-flavored cakes dates back centuries, originating in Europe where coffeehouses became popular social hubs. In the 17th century, coffee was introduced to England, France, and Austria, and bakers quickly began incorporating its robust flavor into pastries and desserts. The “coffee cake” as we know it evolved in Germany, often made with sweet dough and topped with crumbles, becoming a staple treat served alongside afternoon coffee or “Kaffee und Kuchen.”

Buttercream frosting, on the other hand, traces its roots to French pâtisserie in the early 20th century. French chefs developed the original meringue-based buttercream as an elegant topping for layered cakes. Over time, American bakers simplified the recipe, creating the creamy, sweet butter-and-sugar version most people love today. The combination of buttercream and coffee became a holiday favorite across Europe, particularly in Italy and France, where desserts like tiramisu and mocha layer cakes inspired the modern Buttercream Coffee Soaked Holiday Cake.

Today, this cake has become a beloved centerpiece at festive gatherings. It represents warmth, comfort, and a touch of indulgence—perfectly embodying the holiday spirit.

Nutritional Profile and Calories

A single slice of Buttercream Coffee Soaked Holiday Cake (1/10 of the recipe) provides approximately:

  • Calories: 460
  • Protein: 6g
  • Fat: 23g
  • Carbohydrates: 57g
  • Sugar: 40g
  • Fiber: 1g

Although it’s a treat, the nutritional makeup of this dessert isn’t all indulgence. The coffee used in both the batter and frosting adds a surprising nutritional advantage. Coffee is rich in antioxidants, including polyphenols, which help neutralize free radicals and reduce inflammation in the body. Using real butter instead of margarine also offers small amounts of vitamins A and D, as well as butyrate, a beneficial fatty acid that supports gut health.

To make the cake lighter, health-conscious bakers can substitute half the butter with Greek yogurt, use almond or oat milk instead of whole milk, and reduce sugar by one-third. The result is still a moist, flavorful cake with fewer calories and fat, perfect for those who want to enjoy the holiday season guilt-free.

Health Benefits of Coffee

Coffee is one of the most studied beverages in the world, and numerous studies highlight its potential health benefits when consumed in moderation. According to research from Harvard Health Publishing (2023), coffee contains antioxidants that may reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, and certain cancers. The caffeine in coffee also enhances mental alertness, reaction time, and endurance performance—making this dessert particularly appealing to active individuals like athletes and bodybuilders during the holidays.

For those who enjoy fitness, the caffeine in coffee may increase metabolism and help with fat oxidation during workouts. Combined with the protein and carbohydrates from this cake, it can serve as an enjoyable post-workout treat to replenish glycogen stores while satisfying a sweet craving. While this isn’t a meal replacement, a moderate portion offers both pleasure and a mild energy boost.

Cultural Significance and Serving Suggestions

The Buttercream Coffee Soaked Holiday Cake perfectly symbolizes the joy of celebration. In many cultures, serving coffee-flavored desserts during festive gatherings is seen as a gesture of hospitality and warmth. The deep, rich aroma of coffee mixed with the sweet creaminess of buttercream evokes nostalgia and comfort—making it ideal for Christmas dinners, New Year’s Eve parties, and family brunches.

To serve, pair this cake with freshly brewed coffee, cappuccino, or espresso for an intensified flavor experience. For a festive touch, decorate the top with shaved chocolate, crushed peppermint, or roasted hazelnuts. A sprinkle of cocoa powder or cinnamon also enhances both aroma and presentation. The cake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days and tastes even better after the flavors have melded overnight.

Perfect Dessert for Coffee Lovers, Athletes, and Bakers Alike

This recipe is not only for those with a sweet tooth but also for coffee enthusiasts and bakers who appreciate the harmony of texture and taste. Its coffee-infused layers keep the cake moist and flavorful, while the smooth buttercream frosting adds richness without overpowering the deep espresso notes. For athletes, it provides a source of energy and antioxidants. For families, it’s a beautiful homemade dessert that captures the essence of celebration.

The Buttercream Coffee Soaked Holiday Cake represents the best of both worlds—decadence and warmth, tradition and innovation. Whether served as the grand finale to a holiday feast or enjoyed with a quiet morning coffee, it delivers a comforting sense of satisfaction that lingers long after the last bite.