Mocha Layer Cake with Chocolate-Rum Cream Filling

 

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 1 ½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• ½ cup (120ml) strong brewed coffee, cooled
• ½ cup (120ml) buttermilk
• ½ cup (120ml) vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs
• ⅓ cup (30g) cocoa powder
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Chocolate-Rum Cream Filling:

• 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
• ½ cup (90g) dark chocolate, chopped
• 2 tbsp rum (or rum extract for a non-alcoholic version)
• 1 tbsp powdered sugar

For Decoration (optional):

• Cocoa powder or chocolate shavings
• Coffee beans

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

1. Preheat your air fryer to 320°F (160°C). Grease and line two 6-inch cake pans (ensure they fit your air fryer).
2. In a large bowl, sift together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together coffee, buttermilk, oil, eggs, vanilla extract, and sugar until smooth.
4. Gradually mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Avoid overmixing.

Step 2: Bake the Cake

1. Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans.
2. Place one pan in the air fryer and bake for 20–25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Repeat for the second layer.
3. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 3: Make the Chocolate-Rum Cream Filling

1. In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream until it just begins to simmer. Remove from heat and pour over the chopped chocolate. Let it sit for 2 minutes, then stir until smooth.
2. Stir in rum and powdered sugar. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator until it thickens slightly (around 30 minutes).
3. Whip the mixture using a hand mixer until light and fluffy.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

1. Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread half of the chocolate-rum cream filling evenly over the top.
2. Place the second cake layer on top and spread the remaining filling.
3. Decorate with cocoa powder, chocolate shavings, or coffee beans if desired.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Slice and serve your Mocha Layer Cake with a cup of coffee or tea. Enjoy the delightful combination of chocolate, coffee, and rum!