Title: Decadent Caramel Cake with Luxurious Layers
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Bake Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 10-12 slices
Introduction
Treat yourself and your loved ones with this indulgent, rich, and meltingly soft caramel cake. Perfect for celebrations, holidays, or any day when you crave something sweet and satisfying.
Why Make This Recipe
An irresistibly luscious cake is always a delightful treat. Packed with the classic, heavenly flavors of caramel and vanilla, this cake fills your mouth with bliss in every bite. Plus, it’s much easier to make than you might imagine!
How to Make Decadent Caramel Cake
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
– 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 1/2 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 1/4 cups whole milk
For the Caramel Sauce:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 4 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Frosting:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 4 cups powdered sugar
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup caramel sauce (from above)
Directions:
Following these directions, you too can create a sweet masterpiece that everyone will enjoy!
1. Start by baking the cake layers. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans.
2. Mix flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl. Cream butter and sugar in a separate bowl till they’re light and fluffy.
3. Beat in each egg one at a time, followed by the vanilla. Gradually add the dry ingredients alternately with milk, mixing until a smooth batter is formed.
4. Divide your batter evenly among the prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when a toothpick comes out clean. Let the layers cool completely before adding the frosting.
5. Prepare the caramel sauce. In a saucepan, combine the sugar and water. Stir until the sugar has dissolved then let it boil till it turns a deep amber color.
6. Remove the saucepan from the heat. Carefully, whisk in the butter and cream until the mixture is smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract. Allow the caramel sauce to cool fully before using.
7. For the frosting, beat the butter till it becomes creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, heavy cream, and the caramel sauce. Beat the mixture until it’s smooth and spreadable.
How to Serve Decadent Caramel Cake
1. Place the first cake layer on a serving plate, spreading a layer of the caramel frosting over it.
2. Continue with the remaining layers, frosting after each.
3. Frost the top and sides of the cake completely.
4. For an extra touch of lusciousness, drizzle additional caramel over the top of the cake.
How to Store Decadent Caramel Cake
This cake keeps well at room temperature for about 2-3 days if covered properly. For longer storage, refrigerate it and allow slices to come to room temperature before serving.
Tips to Make Decadent Caramel Cake
To ensure your cake turns out perfect, remember to allow your cake layers to cool fully before frosting. Also, be careful when preparing the caramel sauce, boiling sugar can be dangerously hot. Always whisk carefully to avoid splatters.
Variation (if any)
You can use this cake base and frosting with different variations like adding chocolate chips or nuts to the cake or topping the cake with different flavored drizzles.
FAQs
Q1: Can I use salted butter in this recipe?
Ans: You can, but it may alter the flavor slightly.
Q2: How can I tell if my cake is baked enough?
Ans: Insert a toothpick or skewer into the center, if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the cake is ready.
Q3: How should I adjust the baking time for smaller or larger cake pans?
Ans: As a rule, smaller pans would require less time to bake, while larger pans would need more time. Watch the cake closely to avoid over or under baking.