Name: Catch‑a‑Husband Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups (240 g) all-purpose flour; 1½ cups (300 g) granulated sugar; ¾ cup (75 g) cocoa powder; 1½ tsp baking powder; 1 tsp baking soda; ½ tsp salt; 2 large eggs; 1 cup (240 ml) whole milk; ½ cup (120 ml) strong brewed coffee, cooled; ½ cup (120 ml) vegetable oil; 2 tsp vanilla extract; ½ cup raspberry jam; 1 cup (230 g) unsalted butter, softened; 3–4 cups (360–480 g) powdered sugar; 2 Tbsp heavy cream (or milk); 2 tsp vanilla extract; Pinch of salt; Fresh raspberries; Chocolate shavings

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I adore how rich and moist this chocolate cake turns out, and the layer of raspberry jam adds the perfect tart contrast to the sweetness. The buttercream frosting ties it all together into an indulgent yet charming dessert ideal for celebrations.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 cups (240 g) all‑purpose flour
1 ½ cups (300 g) granulated sugar
¾ cup (75 g) cocoa powder
1 ½ tsp baking powder
1 tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
2 large eggs
1 cup (240 ml) whole milk
½ cup (120 ml) strong brewed coffee, cooled
½ cup (120 ml) vegetable oil
2 tsp vanilla extract
½ cup raspberry jam

Buttercream Frosting:
1 cup (230 g) unsalted butter, softened
3–4 cups (360–480 g) powdered sugar
2 Tbsp heavy cream (or milk)
2 tsp vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

Optional: fresh raspberries and chocolate shavings, for garnish

directions

I preheat the oven to 350 °F (175 °C), grease and line two 9‑inch round cake pans with parchment paper.

In a large bowl, I whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.

In a separate bowl, I beat the eggs, then whisk in the milk, coffee, oil, and vanilla.

I pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and stir just until no streaks remain, being careful not to overmix.

I divide the batter evenly between the pans and bake for 25–30 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the centers comes out with moist crumbs.

I cool the cakes in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn them out onto wire racks to cool completely.

When the cakes are cool, I spread ¼ cup raspberry jam over the top of one layer and place the second layer on top.

For the buttercream, I beat softened butter until creamy. I gradually add the powdered sugar, then beat in the cream, vanilla, and salt until fluffy.

I frost the top and sides of the cake with the buttercream and decorate with fresh raspberries and chocolate shavings if using.

I chill the cake in the fridge for 20 minutes to set before slicing and serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 12 slices.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Calories: approximately 420 kcal per slice

Variations

Sometimes I use strawberry or cherry jam instead of raspberry for a twist, or I flavor the buttercream with a bit of liqueur like Chambord for an extra punch. Chocolate ganache also works wonderfully as a topping.

storage/reheating

I store this cake in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Before serving, I let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes for the best flavor and texture.

FAQs

Can I use a different jam?

Yes, I sometimes use strawberry or cherry jam for a slightly different flavor profile.

Can this cake be made ahead of time?

Absolutely. I bake the cake layers in advance and freeze them wrapped tightly. I assemble the cake on the day I serve it.

Is the coffee flavor strong?

Not at all. I find that it enhances the chocolate flavor without making the cake taste like coffee.

Can I make cupcakes with this recipe?

Yes, I divide the batter into cupcake tins and bake for about 18–20 minutes.

How do I get smooth buttercream?

I beat the butter thoroughly before adding sugar, and add cream gradually until it’s fluffy and smooth.

Conclusion

This Catch‑a‑Husband Cake is a romantic, decadent dessert that balances chocolate, fruit, and cream to perfection. I love making it for special occasions, and it never fails to impress with its rich flavor and beautiful presentation.