Step 1: Preheat Your Oven - Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). This ensures that your cake bakes evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Pan - Grease and flour your 9x5 inch loaf pan to prevent the cake from sticking. Alternatively, you can use parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Shortening - In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter and shortening. Beat on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
Step 4: Add Sugar and Eggs - Gradually add the granulated sugar, continuing to beat until well combined. Add the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.
Step 5: Mix Dry Ingredients - In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. This step helps to evenly distribute the dry ingredients.
Step 6: Combine Wet Ingredients - In another bowl, mix the buttermilk, dissolved coffee, and vanilla extract. This mixture will add moisture and flavor to the cake.
Step 7: Alternate Mixing - With the mixer on low speed, alternate adding the dry mixture and the wet mixture to the butter mixture. Begin with the dry ingredients, then add half of the buttermilk mixture, followed by the remaining dry ingredients, and finally the last of the buttermilk. Mix until just combined.
Step 8: Bake the Cake - Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake in the preheated oven for about 70-80 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 9: Cool the Cake - Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a cooling rack to cool completely.
Step 10: Make the Caramel Icing - In a saucepan, combine the heavy cream and light brown sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves and the mixture begins to bubble. Allow it to boil for 2-3 minutes, then remove from heat and stir in the butter pieces until melted and smooth.
Step 11: Ice the Cake - Once the cake is completely cooled, drizzle the warm caramel icing over the top, letting it drip down the sides. For an extra touch, you can sprinkle some cocoa powder or chocolate shavings on top.
