Description
Decadent Caramel Cake is a rich, moist dessert that combines a buttery cake base with smooth, creamy caramel frosting. This indulgent treat is perfect for special occasions or whenever you’re craving something sweet and luxurious. The layers of tender cake and luscious caramel create a flavor harmony that’s sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 2¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup whole milk
For the Caramel Frosting:
- 1½ cups granulated sugar
- ½ cup water
- 1 cup heavy cream, warmed
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Optional Garnish:
- Caramel drizzle
- Sea salt flakes
- Chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts)
Instructions
Prepare the Cake
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans or line with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 3-5 minutes).
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each. Stir in vanilla extract.
- Alternate adding the flour mixture and milk to the creamed mixture, starting and ending with the flour. Mix until just combined.
- Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool cakes in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
Make the Caramel Frosting
- In a medium saucepan, combine sugar and water over medium heat. Swirl pan occasionally until sugar dissolves and turns deep amber.
- Carefully pour in warmed cream, stirring constantly. Mixture will bubble up. Stir until smooth and let cool slightly.
- In a large bowl, beat butter and powdered sugar until fluffy.
- Gradually add cooled caramel sauce to the butter mixture. Beat in vanilla and salt. Chill 15-20 minutes if frosting is too thin.
Assemble the Cake
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread caramel frosting on top.
- Repeat with remaining layers and frost the sides.
- Garnish with caramel drizzle, sea salt flakes, or chopped nuts as desired.
Notes
- Salted Caramel Version: Add 1 teaspoon sea salt to the frosting.
- Nutty Twist: Fold 1 cup toasted chopped nuts into the batter.
- Chocolate Caramel Variation: Drizzle melted chocolate over frosting or add cocoa to the frosting.
