Decadent Caramel Cake Recipe

If you have a sweet tooth and love the rich, buttery flavors of caramel, you are going to absolutely adore this Decadent Caramel Cake Recipe. This cake is a moist and tender delight, packed with the perfect balance of caramel sweetness, creamy frosting, and tender crumb that melts in your mouth. Imagine slicing into this golden beauty to reveal layers of caramel-infused cake topped with luscious caramel frosting—it’s truly a celebration on every plate and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Decadent Caramel Cake Recipe lies not only in the preparation but in its wonderfully simple yet thoughtful ingredients. Each plays a vital role in creating the cake’s moist texture, rich vanilla and caramel notes, and that irresistible golden color that makes this cake so inviting.

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the sturdy base and structure of the cake while keeping it tender.
• 1 tsp baking powder: Helps the cake rise beautifully for a light texture.
• 1/2 tsp baking soda: Works alongside baking powder to give lift and softness.
• 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances all the sweet flavors without overpowering them.
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Infuses the cake with rich flavor and moistness.
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake while contributing to crumb formation.
• 1 cup light brown sugar, packed: Adds a deep caramel note for that special flavor.
• 3 large eggs: Bind everything together, adding fluffiness and moisture.
• 2 tsp vanilla extract: Brings warmth and depth of flavor to the cake batter.
• 1 cup buttermilk: Keeps the cake tender and adds a slight tanginess that balances sweetness.
• 1/2 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade): The star ingredient that infuses caramel goodness into every bite.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (for frosting): Creates the creamy base of the luscious caramel frosting.
• 1 cup light brown sugar, packed (for frosting): Elevates the frosting with rich, buttery caramel notes.
• 1/4 cup heavy cream: Ensures the frosting is silky smooth and spreadable.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract (for frosting): Adds a sweet, fragrant undertone to the frosting.
• 2 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting and provides a silky texture.

How to Make Decadent Caramel Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prep and Preheat

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans to ensure your cakes come out perfectly without sticking. This setup is crucial to baking evenly and creating those beautiful cake layers.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This dry mixture forms the foundation of your cake’s crumb and rise, so mixing it thoroughly ensures even distribution of your leavening agents.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar until light and fluffy. This step is essential as this creamed mixture traps air, making your cake tender and giving it that lovely rise.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to fully incorporate them. Then mix in the vanilla extract, which contributes that irresistible fragrance and depth of flavor to your cake batter.

Step 5: Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Buttermilk

Gradually add the dry mixture to your creamed butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Start and finish with the flour mixture. This alternating method helps maintain the batter’s moisture while ensuring everything is evenly combined without overmixing.

Step 6: Fold in Caramel Sauce

Gently fold in the caramel sauce until it is just combined with the batter. This is where the Decadent Caramel Cake Recipe gets its signature richness and depth of flavor, making every bite luscious and indulgent.

Step 7: Bake the Cake

Divide the batter evenly between your prepared pans and smooth the tops. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, let the cakes cool completely in the pans before removing them carefully to frost.

Step 8: Make the Caramel Frosting

While the cakes are cooling, melt 1/2 cup butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the brown sugar and heavy cream, bringing the mixture to a boil. Allow this to cool slightly before beating in vanilla extract and powdered sugar until silky smooth. This frosting is the perfect complement with its creamy texture and deep caramel flavor.

Step 9: Assemble and Frost

Once the cakes are completely cooled, generously frost the layers. Finish by drizzling additional caramel sauce on top for an extra touch of indulgence that’s visually stunning and utterly delicious.

How to Serve Decadent Caramel Cake Recipe

Garnishes

For a stunning presentation, consider topping your caramel cake with toasted pecans or flaky sea salt. These little touches add a satisfying crunch and a contrast in flavor that enhances the sweet caramel and creamy frosting beautifully.

Side Dishes

This Decadent Caramel Cake Recipe pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. The cold creaminess balances the cake’s richness and adds a lovely temperature contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

For an extra special occasion, serve individual cake slices with a drizzle of warm caramel sauce and a sprig of fresh mint. You can also layer this cake in a trifle dish with chunks of cake and whipped cream for a fun twist on presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers (which is rare!), store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days to keep the frosting fresh and the cake moist.

Freezing

You can freeze your Decadent Caramel Cake Recipe by wrapping the cake layers tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Frozen cakes last up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before frosting and serving.

Reheating

Because this cake is best enjoyed at room temperature, allow frozen or refrigerated slices to come to room temp before serving. Avoid microwaving as it may melt the frosting and change the texture.

FAQs

Can I use homemade caramel sauce for this recipe?

Absolutely! Homemade caramel sauce adds a personal touch and can elevate the flavors even more, but store-bought caramel sauce works wonderfully for convenience.

What if I don’t have buttermilk?

You can make a buttermilk substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to 1 cup of milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes before using it.

How do I prevent the caramel frosting from becoming grainy?

Make sure to gently boil the brown sugar and cream mixture to fully dissolve the sugar crystals, and allow it to cool slightly before mixing in powdered sugar for a silky finish.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup for cup, but be sure it contains xanthan gum for structure.

How long does this cake stay fresh?

When stored properly, this cake stays fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator and can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing its delicious flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Decadent Caramel Cake Recipe enough if you want a show-stopping dessert that’s elegant yet approachable. Every bite feels like a special treat, and the recipe’s balance of simple ingredients with rich caramel magic makes it one to cherish for years to come. Give it a try and watch it become your new favorite go-to cake without fail!

Decadent Caramel Cake Recipe

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4 from 84 reviews

• Author: admin
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 10 servings 1x

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Description

This Decadent Caramel Cake recipe features moist layers infused with rich caramel flavor, topped with a luscious caramel frosting. Perfect for special occasions or a delightful dessert treat, this cake combines a tender crumb with a smooth, buttery caramel glaze.

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Ingredients

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Cake

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 3 large eggs
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1/2 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)

Frosting

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 cups powdered sugar

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Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare Pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans to ensure easy removal after baking.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until evenly combined.
3. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, creating a smooth base for the batter.
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Incorporate the eggs one at a time into the butter mixture, beating well after each addition to ensure they are fully integrated. Mix in the vanilla extract thoroughly.
5. Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with buttermilk. Begin and end with the flour mixture, stirring gently to maintain a tender batter.
6. Fold in Caramel Sauce: Carefully fold in the caramel sauce until just combined, being careful not to overmix to keep the batter light.
7. Bake the Cakes: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool completely on wire racks.
8. Prepare the Frosting: Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the brown sugar and heavy cream, bringing the mixture to a boil. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before beating in vanilla extract and powdered sugar until the frosting is smooth and spreadable.
9. Assemble and Decorate: Once the cakes are completely cooled, frost them with the prepared caramel frosting. Drizzle additional caramel sauce over the top for a beautiful, glossy garnish.

Notes

• Ensure cake layers are fully cooled before frosting to prevent melting.
• You can use homemade caramel sauce or high-quality store-bought for convenience.
• For an extra caramel kick, add a layer of caramel sauce between the cake layers before frosting.
• Store the cake covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American