Grandma's Birthday Cake, aka "The Cake."

October 9, 2012



When I talked with my cousin recently about making "The Cake," for my daughter's 12th birthday, she seemed perplexed.  She wasn't sure what I was talking about.  Apparently, on her side of the family its called "Mocha Cake."  Whatever it is called, its delicious!  No birthday was complete without it.  I don't know how my kids have survived to this age and they do not remember this cake.  Both have had it numerous times when my grandmother was still living, but I guess they were just too young.   This is one of the few recipes of my grandmother that is not totally from scratch (gasp!)  It starts with a boxed angel food cake (we used Duncan Hines) and is combined with the yummy goodness of a light mocha flavored whipped cream with chocolate mocha icing.  It is not a particularly beautiful cake, but oh it is so tasty!! 

Here are the ingredients you will need: 

One boxed Angel Food Cake
Folgers instant powdered coffee singles (these come in sticks - get the powdered ones, not the crystals)
1/2 stick butter, softened
4-5 Tablespoons brewed coffee, cold
2 Tablespoons Cocoa
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 box powdered sugar, plus 3 tablespoons powdered sugar

 

 

 

 

 

 

Step 1:  Make an angel food cake according to the directions on the box.  When cooled, gently slice through the cake to give two equal halves for the cream filling.  It is best to use a bread knife.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Step 2:  Whip one cup heavy whipping cream.  Fold in 3 tablespoons powdered sugar.  Mix in one teaspoon powdered instant coffee.  Place in refrigerator to chill.  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Step 3:   Beat softened butter with two tablespoons cocoa.  Add two teaspoons vanilla and gradually add one box of powdered sugar to make the frosting. 

 

 

 

 

 

 Step 4: Take filling out of the refrigerator and spread evenly over both halves of the cake.  Place top half of cake on the bottom half of cake.

 

 

 

 

Step 5: Now spread the frosting evenly over the cake using a spatula.

 

 

 

Step 6:  Decorate for your favorite birthday girl (or boy, spouse, etc.) and enjoy!!

 

 

 

 

 

Note:  This is a great family cake, but may not be enjoyed by all kids, so better to make for your immediate family to enjoy and get the old traditional cake for the kids' party.  It does have a coffee-ish flavor to it, although not strong.