Mary Berry Mocha Cake Recipe [Tips & Tricks]

If you’re looking to indulge in a rich, comforting treat that combines the perfect balance of coffee and chocolate, then Mary Berry’s mocha cake recipe is a must-try!

With her signature simple yet delicious approach to baking, this cake brings together a moist, flavorful sponge with a smooth, decadent coffee-flavored frosting that will have you coming back for more. Whether you’re a coffee lover or a chocolate enthusiast, this cake hits all the right notes, making it an absolute crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

Mary Berry Mocha Cake Recipe

Ingredients Needed

Creating a delicious Mary Berry Mocha Cake involves carefully selecting the best ingredients that work in harmony to create a light, rich, and coffee-infused masterpiece. Here’s a breakdown of the essential components you’ll need to get started:

For The Cake

1. Plain Flour (Self-Raising Option) – The base of any cake, flour gives structure and body to the sponge. Mary Berry’s recipe often calls for plain flour, although if you’re pressed for time, self-raising flour can work as an easy alternative. However, be mindful that using self-raising flour might slightly alter the texture.

2. Cocoa Powder – For the chocolate element of the mocha flavor, good-quality cocoa powder is key. It adds both richness and a slight bitterness, balancing beautifully with the sweetness of the cake and the coffee.

3. Baking Powder – A key ingredient to help the cake rise. Though this is generally used in combination with plain flour, it ensures that the cake will rise evenly and have a soft, fluffy texture.

4. Butter – Unsalted butter is always recommended for baking to have more control over the salt content. The butter helps create a moist, tender crumb, while adding flavor that complements the other ingredients.

5. Caster Sugar – This is a fine sugar that dissolves easily into the butter and flour mix, ensuring a smooth, tender batter without any gritty texture.

6. Eggs – Eggs act as the binding agent in cakes, helping the ingredients come together. They also contribute to the cake’s lightness, moisture, and flavor.

7. Milk – Adding moisture and a hint of creaminess to the batter, milk is crucial to ensure the cake achieves the right consistency and doesn’t become too dry during baking.

8. Instant Coffee – The essential ingredient for the ‘mocha’ flavor. Instant coffee granules or powder, dissolved in hot water, infuse the cake with a deep coffee flavor. It’s the perfect way to bring out the best of the chocolate and create a balanced flavor profile.

9. Boiling Water – Used to dissolve the instant coffee, boiling water brings the coffee to life and ensures its rich, aromatic essence is fully extracted into the batter.

For The Frosting

1. Butter (again, unsalted) – To create a smooth, creamy frosting, butter is your base. It ensures a rich, luxurious finish.

2. Icing Sugar – Powdered sugar gives the frosting its smooth, silky texture and the sweetness needed to balance the bitterness of the coffee and chocolate.

3. Cocoa Powder – As in the cake, cocoa powder plays a crucial role in the frosting, adding the chocolate flavor that pairs beautifully with the coffee.

4. Instant Coffee – For the frosting, the coffee is dissolved in a small amount of boiling water, ensuring the coffee flavor shines through without being overpowering.

5. Double Cream – The addition of double cream (heavy cream) helps create a luscious, velvety frosting that’s rich yet smooth, ideal for spreading or piping over the cake.

Equipment Needed

To make Mary Berry’s Mocha Cake, having the right tools is essential to achieve the perfect texture and presentation. Here’s a list of equipment that will make the process easier and more enjoyable:

1. Two 20cm Round Cake Pans – For an evenly baked cake, you’ll need two round cake pans, preferably 20cm in diameter. This size will help you achieve the desired height for your mocha cake and allow for a perfect layering of frosting in between.

2. Electric Mixer – While it’s possible to make this cake by hand, an electric mixer (handheld or stand) makes it much easier to beat the butter and sugar into a creamy consistency and ensures that your batter is light and fluffy. It also helps in easily incorporating the dry ingredients into the wet ones without over-mixing.

3. Sieve – Sieving the dry ingredients (flour, cocoa powder, and baking powder) ensures there are no lumps in your batter. It also helps aerate the flour, giving your cake a lighter texture.

4. Mixing Bowls – A couple of mixing bowls are needed, one for the wet ingredients and one for the dry. This way, you can combine everything properly without worrying about overworking the batter.

5. Cooling Rack – After baking, the cake will need time to cool completely before you frost it. A cooling rack allows air to circulate around the cakes, preventing them from becoming soggy.

6. Spatula and Palette Knife – These tools are used for spreading the frosting evenly over the cakes. A palette knife can help you achieve a smooth, professional-looking finish, especially if you’re aiming for a smooth, clean layer of frosting.

7. Measuring Cups and Spoons – Accuracy in baking is crucial, so measuring cups and spoons are a must to ensure you get the right balance of ingredients.

How To Make Mary Berry’s Mocha Cake

Now that you have everything you need, here’s a step-by-step guide on how to prepare the perfect Mocha Cake, just like Mary Berry:

Step 1: Prepare The Oven And Cake Pans

Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan) or 350°F. Grease and line the two 20cm round cake pans with baking paper. This ensures that the cakes come out easily after baking and helps prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix The Wet Ingredients

In a small bowl, dissolve the instant coffee granules in the boiling water. Allow it to cool slightly.

Meanwhile, in a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and caster sugar using an electric mixer. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy-this will take about 3-4 minutes.

Step 3: Add The Eggs

Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure they are fully incorporated. This helps prevent the batter from curdling. If the mixture looks a little lumpy, don’t worry-this can be fixed with the dry ingredients.

Step 4: Incorporate The Dry Ingredients

Sift together the flour, cocoa powder, and baking powder into a separate bowl. Gradually add this sifted mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk and dissolved coffee mixture.

Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix gently to avoid overworking the batter, which can make the cake dense.

Step 5: Bake The Cake

Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula, and bake in the preheated oven for around 25-30 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool The Cakes

Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and let them sit in the pans for 10 minutes. Then, turn them out onto a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.

Step 7: Make The Frosting

While the cakes cool, prepare the frosting. Beat the softened butter until it’s light and creamy.

Add the sifted cocoa powder, icing sugar, and instant coffee dissolved in hot water. Gradually beat in the double cream to achieve a smooth and glossy frosting.

Step 8: Assemble The Cake

Once the cakes are fully cooled, spread a generous amount of frosting on top of one of the cakes. Place the second cake on top and cover the entire cake with the remaining frosting. You can use a spatula or palette knife to smooth the sides and top for a clean, professional look.

Expert Tips

• Coffee Choice: The type of coffee you use will directly impact the flavor of your cake. Opt for high-quality instant coffee with a rich, deep flavor. If you prefer a more intense coffee flavor, feel free to add an extra teaspoon of coffee to the batter.

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that the butter, eggs, and cream are at room temperature before you start baking. This ensures better incorporation and a smoother batter.

• Cake Cooling: Let the cakes cool completely before frosting. If the cake is still warm, the frosting could melt and slide off, resulting in a less-than-perfect presentation.

• Frosting Consistency: If your frosting is too thick, add a little more cream to loosen it up. If it’s too thin, add more icing sugar to thicken it.

Mary Berry’s Mocha Cake is a delicious, indulgent dessert that combines the rich flavors of coffee and chocolate into one perfect bite. With its soft, light sponge and creamy, coffee-infused frosting, this cake is perfect for coffee lovers and anyone who enjoys a decadent treat.

Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just because you love a good cake, it’s sure to impress. By following these detailed steps and expert tips, you’ll end up with a showstopper cake that’s as delightful to look at as it is to eat. Happy baking!.

Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Mocha Cake

Mary Berry’s Mocha Cake, with its rich coffee and chocolate flavors, is a beloved dessert in many households.

Its simplicity and elegance make it perfect for various occasions, but why not make it your own?

Here are some creative, easy variations you can try that will give a twist to the traditional recipe without straying too far from its comforting essence.

1. Add a Nutty Crunch: For a textured contrast, incorporate chopped hazelnuts or walnuts into the batter. Hazelnuts, in particular, complement the mocha flavor beautifully, bringing out the depth of the coffee while adding a satisfying crunch. You can also toast the nuts lightly to bring out their natural oils, which will enhance the flavor.

2. Spices for Warmth: If you’re looking to introduce a bit more warmth to the cake, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter. These spices will add an aromatic richness that pairs well with the mocha. Just a small amount can subtly elevate the flavors without overpowering the coffee and chocolate balance.

3. Mocha Cake with a Twist of Caramel: Drizzle homemade or store-bought caramel sauce over the top of the cake or mix it into the frosting for an added layer of sweetness. The slight bitterness of coffee and chocolate combined with the richness of caramel creates a delightful contrast that can make your mocha cake stand out. If you’re feeling adventurous, a little sea salt sprinkled over the caramel topping can turn it into a salted caramel mocha cake.

4. Mocha Cake with Coffee Liqueur: For an adult twist, consider adding a splash of coffee liqueur, such as Kahlúa or Tia Maria, to both the batter and the frosting. This not only enhances the flavor of the coffee but also gives the cake a subtle boozy kick that is perfect for special occasions. Be sure to balance the alcohol with the right amount of sweetness in the frosting to ensure it doesn’t overpower the flavor.

5. Gluten-Free Mocha Cake: For a gluten-free version, swap the regular flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Be sure to check that your baking powder is gluten-free as well. Adding a little almond flour can also help to maintain the moisture and texture of the cake, giving it a slightly denser but equally delicious consistency.

6. Mocha Cake with Whipped Cream or Mascarpone Frosting: While Mary Berry’s original mocha cake often uses a buttercream or chocolate ganache frosting, you can lighten it up by swapping for whipped cream or mascarpone frosting. Whipped mascarpone, especially with a hint of vanilla or additional coffee, gives a luxurious, creamy finish that complements the richness of the mocha perfectly.

By experimenting with these variations, you can take the classic mocha cake to new heights, tailoring it to your personal taste or even the season, whether it’s a warm winter treat or a light summer dessert.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

Mocha cake is often so delicious that it’s hard to leave any behind, but if you do find yourself with some leftover slices, knowing how to store them properly is key to maintaining their freshness and flavor. Here’s how to keep your cake at its best.

1. Store in an Airtight Container: To preserve moisture and prevent your mocha cake from drying out, store it in an airtight container. This will keep the cake fresh for up to 3-4 days. If the cake is frosted, make sure the container is tall enough to avoid crushing the icing. If you don’t have an airtight container, wrapping the cake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil will work as a suitable alternative.

2. Refrigerate the Cake if It Contains Dairy or Buttercream Frosting: If your mocha cake has a buttercream or mascarpone frosting, it’s best to store it in the fridge, especially if it’s warm or humid outside. The frosting can soften and spoil without refrigeration, so wrap the cake in cling film and place it in a sealed container. If you prefer, you can also place a piece of parchment paper between layers of cake to avoid them sticking together.

3. Avoid Freezing Fully Frosted Cakes: While freezing leftover cakes is possible, fully frosted cakes, especially those with buttercream, don’t always freeze well. The frosting can sometimes separate or become grainy when thawed. If you’re looking to freeze portions, it’s best to wrap individual slices without frosting or to freeze the cake layers separately. When ready to eat, defrost at room temperature and add fresh frosting if desired.

4. Slice Only What You Need: If you’re storing leftover slices, it’s better to cut only the portion you’re going to eat rather than cutting the entire cake. This helps preserve the moisture in the uncut parts of the cake, preventing them from drying out too quickly. If the cake is uncut, it will stay fresher for a longer time.

5. Avoid Storing Near Strong Odors: Cakes tend to absorb odors from their surroundings, especially when stored in the refrigerator. To avoid this, ensure that the cake is tightly wrapped or stored in a container with a lid. Additionally, placing the cake away from any pungent items like onions or garlic will help preserve its original flavor.

With these storage tips, you’ll be able to enjoy your mocha cake for days, keeping it as fresh and delicious as when it was first baked.

What Goes Well With Mocha Cake

A mocha cake is rich, decadent, and layered with complex flavors of chocolate and coffee, which means pairing it with complementary sides or beverages can enhance the experience. Here are some ideas to elevate your mocha cake:

1. Coffee or Espresso: For those who love the coffee flavor in mocha cake, pairing it with a freshly brewed cup of coffee or espresso can amplify the experience. A dark roast with a touch of cream or a cappuccino with a foamy top balances the richness of the cake. For a more indulgent touch, opt for an affogato – a scoop of vanilla ice cream ‘drowned’ in a shot of hot espresso.

2. Whipped Cream or Mascarpone Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream or mascarpone cream on the side provides a creamy contrast to the dense, chocolaty layers of the cake. The smooth, velvety texture of the cream cuts through the richness of the mocha, creating a perfect balance.

3. Ice Cream: For a classic pairing, vanilla, hazelnut, or even coffee-flavored ice cream works beautifully with mocha cake. The cold, creamy ice cream contrasts against the warm, dense texture of the cake, creating a pleasing texture contrast and a variety of flavors.

4. Berries: The natural sweetness and acidity of fresh berries-such as raspberries, strawberries, or blackberries-bring a burst of freshness that cuts through the richness of the mocha cake. Their tartness is the perfect counterpoint to the deep, intense flavors of chocolate and coffee.

5. Nutty Companions: Nuts like roasted hazelnuts, almonds, or even pistachios can complement mocha cake. These can either be used as a garnish for the cake or served on the side. The nutty crunch pairs well with the smoothness of the cake, enhancing both flavor and texture.

6. Dessert Wine or Liqueur: For a more sophisticated pairing, consider serving mocha cake with a glass of dessert wine, such as a rich port or a sweet sherry. If you prefer a liqueur, something like Amaretto, Baileys, or a coffee liqueur can add an extra layer of flavor that complements both the coffee and chocolate in the cake.

Conclusion

Mary Berry’s Mocha Cake is a timeless dessert that combines the deep richness of chocolate with the aromatic sharpness of coffee, creating a symphony of flavors that are as comforting as they are delicious. The beauty of this cake lies not just in its classic recipe, but in how easily it can be adapted and varied to suit different tastes or occasions. Whether you prefer to add a nutty crunch, a touch of spice, or even a hint of caramel, there are endless ways to make this cake your own.

When storing leftovers, following a few simple steps ensures that the cake remains as fresh and delectable as the day it was baked. And when it comes to serving, the possibilities are endless-from pairing with a cup of coffee to enjoying alongside fresh berries or a scoop of ice cream.

In the end, Mary Berry’s Mocha Cake isn’t just a dessert-it’s a versatile treat that can be enjoyed on any occasion, with whatever accompaniments you enjoy most. With its ability to adapt to different flavor profiles and occasions, it remains a beloved staple in kitchens around the world, perfect for sharing with loved ones or savoring solo.

FAQs

What Ingredients Are Needed For Mary Berry’s Mocha Cake?

Mary Berry’s mocha cake requires basic ingredients such as plain flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, butter, sugar, eggs, milk, and a combination of instant coffee and hot water to create the mocha flavor. For the frosting, you’ll need butter, icing sugar, cocoa powder, instant coffee, and milk.

How Do You Make The Mocha Flavor In Mary Berry’s Mocha Cake?

To create the mocha flavor, instant coffee is dissolved in hot water and incorporated into the batter. This gives the cake a rich coffee flavor that pairs perfectly with the cocoa. The coffee is also used in the frosting to intensify the mocha taste.

Can I Use A Different Type Of Flour For Mary Berry’s Mocha Cake?

Mary Berry’s mocha cake recipe specifically calls for plain flour. If you prefer, you can experiment with self-raising flour, but you’ll need to adjust the baking powder accordingly to maintain the correct texture and rise.

Can I Substitute The Butter With Oil In Mary Berry’s Mocha Cake?

While it’s possible to substitute butter with oil, the texture and flavor may slightly differ. Butter adds richness and a tender crumb to the cake, so oil may result in a slightly different consistency. If you do substitute, use an equal amount of oil.

What Can I Use As A Coffee Substitute In Mary Berry’s Mocha Cake?

If you don’t drink coffee or prefer not to use it, you can substitute the coffee with strong brewed tea, such as Earl Grey, or use hot chocolate to replace the mocha flavor. However, the flavor will be quite different from the original.

How Long Should I Bake Mary Berry’s Mocha Cake?

Mary Berry’s mocha cake should be baked in the center of a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for approximately 20-25 minutes. It’s important to check the cake with a skewer or toothpick; it should come out clean when the cake is done.

How Can I Make Sure Mary Berry’s Mocha Cake Turns Out Moist?

To ensure the cake remains moist, it’s essential not to overbake it. Keep an eye on it near the end of the baking time and test with a skewer. Additionally, the butter and milk in the batter help keep it tender and moist.

Can I Make Mary Berry’s Mocha Cake In Advance?

Yes, Mary Berry’s mocha cake can be made in advance. It will stay fresh for 2-3 days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. For longer storage, you can freeze the cake layers for up to 3 months and thaw them before frosting.

Can I Frost Mary Berry’s Mocha Cake With Something Other Than Mocha Frosting?

If you prefer a different flavor, you can frost the mocha cake with a simple chocolate ganache, vanilla buttercream, or cream cheese frosting. However, the mocha frosting enhances the coffee and chocolate flavor, making it a classic combination.

What Is The Best Way To Serve Mary Berry’s Mocha Cake?

Mary Berry’s mocha cake is best served slightly chilled or at room temperature. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea, making it an ideal dessert for afternoon tea or a special occasion. You can also garnish with chocolate shavings or cocoa powder for an elegant touch.