Step 1

Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line three 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper and lightly coat with baking spray.

Step 2

Spray with baking soda

Step 3

Whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, spices, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a large mixing bowl.

Step 4

Stir in the vegetable oil until the dry ingredients are well coated, then add the eggs, vanilla extract, and molasses.

Step 5

Stir in the buttermilk until combined, then add the hot coffee.

Step 6

Pour batter evenly into prepared cake pans and bake for 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.

Step 7

Cool the cake layers slightly in the pans before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.