Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with our decadent Caramel Cake recipe! This moist and indulgent cake is layered with rich caramel flavor and topped with a luscious caramel frosting. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving something sweet, this cake is sure to delight. Let’s dive into the kitchen and create this sweet symphony of flavor together!
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 and 1/2 cups granulated sugar
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 4 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Caramel Sauce:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
For the Caramel Frosting:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 4 cups powdered sugar
– 1/4 cup caramel sauce (reserved from above)
– 1-2 tablespoons heavy cream, if needed
For Garnishing:
– Additional caramel sauce for drizzling
– Chopped nuts or edible flowers for decoration (optional)
Cooking Process:
Step 1: Making the Cake
- 1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- 2. In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- 3. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- 4. In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- 5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, and mix until well combined.
- 6. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops with a spatula.
- 7. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
- 8. Remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
Step 2: Making the Caramel Sauce
- 1. In a saucepan, combine the granulated sugar and water over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
- 2. Allow the mixture to come to a boil without stirring. Cook until it reaches a deep amber color, swirling the pan occasionally.
- 3. Remove the saucepan from the heat and carefully whisk in the heavy cream. Be cautious as the mixture will bubble up.
- 4. Stir in the unsalted butter, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until smooth. Set aside to cool.
Step 3: Making the Caramel Frosting
- 1. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
- 2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition.
- 3. Mix in 1/4 cup of the cooled caramel sauce until smooth. If the frosting is too thick, add heavy cream, one tablespoon at a time, until desired consistency is reached.
Step 4: Assembling the Cake
- 1. Place one cooled cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a layer of caramel frosting on top.
- 2. Drizzle some of the reserved caramel sauce over the frosting.
- 3. Top with the second cake layer and frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining caramel frosting.
- 4. Drizzle additional caramel sauce over the top of the cake for decoration.
Garnishing:
1. Sprinkle chopped nuts or decorate with edible flowers, if desired, for an elegant finishing touch.
2. Slice and serve the cake, and enjoy the irresistible combination of caramel goodness!
Notes and Helpful Tips:
1. Room temperature ingredients: Ensure that your eggs, butter, and milk are at room temperature before starting to ensure a smooth batter and proper mixing.
2. Caramel sauce consistency: The caramel sauce should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon but still pourable. If it thickens too much as it cools, gently reheat it until it reaches the desired consistency.
3. Cooling the cakes: Make sure the cake layers are completely cooled before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting and sliding off the cake.
4. Storage: Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Bring to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.
With these detailed instructions and helpful tips, you’ll be able to create a stunning Caramel Cake that’s sure to impress your friends and family. Enjoy the delightful combination of moist cake layers and rich caramel flavor!