Mary Berry’s Cappuccino Cake is a delightful treat that captures the essence of one of the most beloved coffee flavors in a rich, moist cake form. Ideal for coffee lovers and dessert enthusiasts alike, this cake combines the aromatic allure of espresso with the sweetness and softness of a perfectly baked sponge cake, layered and topped with a light, creamy frosting that’s reminiscent of your favorite cappuccino froth.
In this article, I will share a step-by-step guide, complete with tips to ensure your cake is as delicious to taste as it is beautiful to look at
What is Mary Berry Cappuccino Cake Recipe?
Mary Berry’s Cappuccino Cake is an exquisite dessert that layers the rich flavors of coffee and chocolate within a beautifully moist sponge cake, complemented by a silky coffee-infused buttercream. It’s a tribute to classic Italian cappuccinos, transformed into a cake form that’s both visually impressive and delightfully delicious.
Designed for 8-10 servings, Mary Berry’s Cappuccino Cake is an ideal choice for various occasions or a special weekend treat. It combines ease of preparation with the potential to impress, perfect for any baker’s skill level.
Other Popular Cake Recipes
- Nigella Victoria Sponge
- Mary Berry All-In-One Victoria Sponge Cake
- Mary Berry Chocolate Ganache Cake
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavorful Fusion: The combination of coffee and chocolate offers a rich and robust flavor that’s irresistible to coffee enthusiasts.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual gathering or a formal celebration, this cake fits seamlessly into any setting.
- Simple Elegance: Despite its sophisticated appearance, this cake is straightforward to make, thanks to clear, step-by-step instructions.
- Customizable: With numerous variation options, it’s easy to tweak the recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.
Ingredients Needed to Make Mary Berry Cappuccino Cake
For the Cake:
- 225g (8 oz) unsalted butter, softened
- 225g (8 oz) caster sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 225g (8 oz) self-raising flour
- 2 tbsp instant coffee powder (dissolved in 1 tbsp hot water)
- 30g (1 oz) cocoa powder
For the Coffee Buttercream:
- 100g (3.5 oz) unsalted butter, softened
- 200g (7 oz) icing sugar, sifted
- 2 tbsp instant coffee powder (dissolved in 1 tbsp boiling water and cooled)
Decoration:
- Cocoa powder for dusting
- Chocolate shavings or coffee beans (optional)
Instructions to Make Mary Berry Cappuccino Cake
Step 1: Preparing the Cake Batter
- Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F, gas mark 4). This ensures your cake cooks evenly.
- Prepare the Cake Tins: Line two 20cm (8in) round cake tins with baking parchment. This helps in easy removal of the cake once baked.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: Sift the self-raising flour and cocoa powder into a bowl to ensure there are no lumps and to incorporate air for a lighter cake texture.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter and caster sugar until pale and fluffy. This process incorporates air, contributing to the cake’s rise.
- Add Eggs: Gradually add the eggs to the butter and sugar mixture, beating well after each addition. If the mixture starts to curdle, add a little flour to stabilize it.
- Incorporate Coffee: Stir in the dissolved coffee mixture, ensuring it’s evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Fold in Flour: Gently fold in the sifted flour and cocoa powder, being careful not to overmix as this can deflate the batter.
- Divide and Bake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared tins. Smooth the tops and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool the Cakes: Once baked, allow the cakes to cool in their tins for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 2: Making the Coffee Buttercream
- Cream Butter: Beat the softened butter until smooth and creamy. This is the base for your buttercream.
- Sift Icing Sugar: Gradually add the sifted icing sugar to the butter, beating continuously until fully incorporated and smooth.
- Add Coffee: Finally, add the cooled, dissolved coffee to the buttercream, mixing thoroughly until the coffee is evenly distributed and the buttercream is smooth.
Step 3: Assembling the Cake
- Layer the Cake: Once the cakes have cooled, choose one cake as the base and spread a generous layer of coffee buttercream over the top.
- Add Second Layer: Place the second cake on top of the first, pressing down gently to secure it.
- Cover with Buttercream: Use the remaining buttercream to cover the top (and sides, if desired) of the cake.
- Decorate: Dust the top of the cake with cocoa powder and decorate with chocolate shavings or coffee beans, if using.
What Do I Serve With Mary Berry Cappuccino Cake?
Choosing the right accompaniments can turn the experience of enjoying Mary Berry’s Cappuccino Cake into a delightful taste adventure. The rich coffee flavors of the cake offer a versatile base that pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, enhancing every bite.
- Fresh Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream on the side of each slice beautifully complements the deep coffee flavors, adding a light and airy texture.
- Ice Cream: Vanilla ice cream is a classic pairing, offering a cool, creamy contrast that enhances the cake’s richness.
- Coffee or Tea: Naturally, a hot cup of coffee or tea makes an excellent companion, echoing the cake’s warm flavors and making for a comforting treat.
- Fruit Compote: A tangy berry compote can add a lovely sharpness that cuts through the sweetness, balancing each mouthful.
- Dessert Wine: For an adult twist, a sweet dessert wine or a shot of espresso liqueur alongside the cake can elevate your dessert course to a new level of sophistication.
Pro Tips to Make Perfect Mary Berry Cappuccino Cake
Achieving that perfect Mary Berry Cappuccino Cake is all about the details.
Here are some tried and tested tips to help you nail the recipe every time.
- Ensure Ingredients Are at Room Temperature: This makes it easier to mix your batter and results in a smoother, more even cake.
- Do Not Overmix the Batter: Mix just until the ingredients are combined. Overmixing can make the cake tough.
- Test for Doneness: A skewer or toothpick should come out clean when inserted into the center of the cake. It’s the best test to ensure your cake is perfectly baked.
- Cool Completely Before Icing: Icing a warm cake can lead to melted buttercream. Patience here pays off with a beautifully finished cake.
- Sift Dry Ingredients: This removes any lumps and aerates your flour, making for a lighter cake.
- Use Quality Coffee: The coffee flavor is key in this cake, so use a good quality instant coffee for the best taste.
Variations of Mary Berry Cappuccino Cake
Customizing your Cappuccino Cake can add a personal touch that makes the dessert even more special.
Here are some simple tweaks to try:
- Mocha Twist: Introduce chocolate chips into the batter or drizzle the finished cake with melted chocolate for a deeper flavor.
- Nutty Flavor: Adding chopped walnuts or hazelnuts gives a delightful crunch and a nutty undertone that complements the coffee.
- Dairy-Free Version: Swap the butter for a plant-based alternative and use a dairy-free milk to make the coffee infusion, making this cake accessible to everyone.
- Caramel Infusion: Drizzle caramel over the buttercream layers for a sweet, gooey element that pairs wonderfully with the coffee flavor.
- Orange Zest: Adding orange zest to the batter introduces a subtle citrus note that brightens the overall flavor profile.
How do I Store Mary Berry Cappuccino Cake Leftovers?
- Room Temperature: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerate: For longer storage, keep it refrigerated for up to 1 week. Ensure it’s well covered to avoid absorbing other flavors from the fridge.
How do I Reheat Mary Berry Cappuccino Cake Leftovers?
- Microwave: A quick zap in the microwave for 10-15 seconds can revive the cake, making the buttercream soft and creamy again.
- Oven: Warm it in a preheated oven at 150°C (300°F) for about 5-10 minutes if you prefer a slightly crisp exterior.
Nutrition Values per Serving:
- Calories: 400-450 kcal
- Fat: 25g (Saturated Fat: 15g)
- Carbohydrates: 45g (Sugar: 30g)
- Protein: 5g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 300mg
FAQs
Can I Make Mary Berry Cappuccino Cake Without a Mixer?
Yes, you can make Mary Berry Cappuccino Cake without an electric mixer. Instead, use a whisk or a wooden spoon to cream the butter and sugar together until pale and fluffy. For the eggs, beat them in one at a time, ensuring each is well incorporated before adding the next. This method might require a bit more elbow grease, but it’s entirely possible to achieve a smooth, well-mixed batter by hand.
How Do I Ensure My Cappuccino Cake Is Moist?
To ensure your Cappuccino Cake remains moist, avoid overbaking it. Keep a close eye on the cake in the last few minutes of baking and perform the skewer test to check for doneness. Additionally, adding a tablespoon of vegetable oil to the batter can help keep the cake moist. Store the baked and cooled cake in an airtight container to lock in moisture until you’re ready to serve.
Can I Freeze Mary Berry Cappuccino Cake?
Yes, Mary Berry Cappuccino Cake freezes beautifully. To freeze, wrap the cake layers individually in cling film and then a layer of foil to protect them from freezer burn. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before assembling and icing as per the recipe. It’s best to add the coffee buttercream after the cake has thawed, to enjoy the freshest taste and texture.
What Can I Use Instead of Instant Coffee in the Recipe?
If you don’t have instant coffee, you can substitute it with equal amounts of strongly brewed coffee or espresso. Allow the coffee to cool completely before adding it to the batter or buttercream. Keep in mind that liquid coffee might slightly alter the consistency, so you may need to adjust the amount of liquid elsewhere in the recipe to compensate.
Final Words
Mary Berry’s Cappuccino Cake is a sophisticated yet surprisingly simple dessert that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or new to the kitchen, this recipe is designed to guide you through creating a stunning, flavorful cake that celebrates the beloved blend of coffee and cake. With the tips and variations provided, you can make this recipe your own and enjoy the perfect slice of cappuccino cake every time. Happy baking!