1. Make the Mocha Cake
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large bowl, whisk flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Add eggs, buttermilk, oil, and vanilla. Mix until smooth.
- Slowly stir in hot coffee (batter will be thin—this makes the cake moist).
- Divide batter into pans and bake for 30–35 minutes, until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely.
2. Make the Chocolate-Rum Cream Filling
- Heat heavy cream in a saucepan until just simmering.
- Pour over chopped chocolate and butter. Let sit 2 minutes, then whisk until smooth.
- Stir in rum. Chill for 30 minutes, then whip with a mixer until fluffy and spreadable.
3. Assemble the Cake
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of chocolate-rum cream filling.
- Top with the second cake layer.
- Frost the cake with mocha buttercream or leave semi-naked with filling exposed for a rustic look.
4. Garnish & Serve
Dust with cocoa powder, add chocolate curls, or drizzle with extra ganache. Slice and serve.
Tips for Success
- Don’t skip the coffee – It enhances the chocolate flavor (you won’t taste coffee directly).
- Use quality chocolate – The filling is the star, so go for a good brand.
- Adjust rum to taste – Use 1 tablespoon for a subtle flavor or up to 3 for boldness.
- Make ahead – Bake cake layers a day ahead and store tightly wrapped; assemble before serving.
Fun Variations
- Non-Alcoholic – Replace rum with 1 teaspoon rum extract or extra vanilla.
- White Chocolate-Rum Filling – Use white chocolate instead of dark for a sweeter filling.
- Espresso Kick – Add 1 teaspoon espresso powder to the filling for stronger coffee notes.
- Layer Cake – Split each cake round into two for a dramatic four-layer presentation.
What to Serve With This Cake
This rich cake pairs beautifully with:
- A shot of espresso or cappuccino
- A glass of dessert wine or dark rum cocktail
- Fresh berries to cut the richness
Why This Cake Will Be a Showstopper
The Mocha Cake with Chocolate-Rum Cream Filling is everything a special occasion dessert should be: elegant, indulgent, and unforgettable. The balance of bitter cocoa, aromatic coffee, and warm rum creates a depth of flavor that lingers with every bite.
It’s a cake that feels grown-up, sophisticated, and utterly satisfying.
Final Thought: If you’re looking for a dessert that wows, this Mocha Cake with Chocolate-Rum Cream Filling is the perfect choice. Decadent, boozy, and beautifully balanced—it’s a chocolate lover’s dream with a spirited twist.