The moment I took my first bite of Salted Caramel Cake, it felt like a sweet revelation. Imagine layers of moist vanilla sponge cake, lovingly enveloped in rich, homemade salted caramel and dreamy buttercream frosting. Each forkful brings forth a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate, leaving a lingering hint of sweetness and a sophisticated touch of saltiness. This cake isn’t just a dessert; it’s an experience—perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or when you simply want to treat yourself.
After a particularly long week, creating this delightful cake felt like a well-deserved reward. Whether you’ll savor it at a festive gathering or as a personal indulgence, this stunning showstopper will undoubtedly impress friends and family alike. Let’s dive into the simple yet rewarding steps to craft this masterpiece together.
Why is Salted Caramel Cake a Must-Try?
Decadent layers: This cake features a beautiful blend of moist vanilla sponge and luscious homemade salted caramel that will captivate your taste buds.
Irresistible frosting: The creamy buttercream brings a smooth texture that pairs perfectly with the rich caramel, making every slice pure bliss.
Epic celebrations: It’s the ultimate centerpiece for birthdays and special occasions, sure to impress guests and family alike.
Easily customizable: Adjust flavors by experimenting with different extracts or frosting options, ensuring you’re always tantalizing your palate.
Quick prep: The recipe is straightforward, making it accessible for both novice and seasoned bakers to create their own culinary magic.
Salted Caramel Cake Ingredients
For the Cake
• Granulated Sugar – Primary sweetener for a deliciously sweet cake; consider coconut sugar for a deeper, caramel-like flavor.
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides the cake’s structure; can be replaced with a gluten-free flour blend for a delightful variant.
• Cornstarch – Ensures tenderness in the cake; use it in combination with cake flour for optimal results.
• Baking Powder & Baking Soda – These leavening agents are key to achieving a perfectly risen cake.
• Sour Cream – Adds moisture and a hint of tang; Greek yogurt makes a great substitute if needed.
• Butter – Essential for richness in the cake; choose unsalted butter for a balanced flavor.
• Vegetable Oil – Keeps the cake super moist; any neutral oil like canola will do just fine.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall taste; opt for pure vanilla for the best flavor profile.
• Eggs – Help bind ingredients together and add richness; ensure they are fresh and at room temperature.
For the Salted Caramel
• Sugar – This is the star ingredient for the caramel; be cautious as it can burn if left unattended.
• Water – Assists in melting the sugar smoothly, creating that perfect caramel consistency.
• Butter – Incorporated into the caramel for a rich flavor; using unsalted will help control the saltiness.
• Heavy Cream – Adds a creamy texture to the caramel; you can use half-and-half for a lighter version.
• Salt – The secret ingredient that brings the caramel to life; a must for that delightful balance in the salted caramel cake.
For the Buttercream Frosting
• Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and thickens the frosting; no substitutions are recommended for the best consistency.
• Butter – Whipped to perfection, the base of your buttercream; unsalted is best to control sweetness.
• Vanilla Extract – A touch of this will elevate your frosting’s flavor; pure extract is highly recommended.
• Salted Caramel – Stir in your homemade salted caramel for a decadent, rich buttercream frosting that harmonizes beautifully with the cake layers.
Embark on the journey of crafting your irresistible Salted Caramel Cake—a treat that’s sure to impress and indulge your senses!
How to Make Salted Caramel Cake
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Prepare the Salted Caramel: In a medium saucepan, combine sugar and water over medium-high heat. Stir gently until the mixture turns golden brown—this should take about 8-10 minutes. Gradually mix in butter and heavy cream until smooth. Add salt, stirring well, then set it aside to cool in the fridge.
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Make the Cake Batter: Preheat your oven to 340ºF (170ºC). In a bowl, sift the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and baking soda together. In a separate mixing bowl, cream the unsalted butter and granulated sugar, then add eggs one at a time. Alternate adding the dry mixture with sour cream, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until fully combined.
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Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into greased cake pans and bake for 19-23 minutes. Use a toothpick or cake tester to check for doneness; it should come out clean when inserted into the center. Allow the cakes to cool on wire racks completely.
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Prepare the Buttercream Frosting: In a large bowl, whip the unsalted butter until fluffy and light. Gradually incorporate powdered sugar and remaining vanilla extract. Fold in your prepared salted caramel until you achieve a rich, smooth consistency.
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Assemble the Cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous layer of buttercream on top. Drizzle some salted caramel over it. Repeat with the second layer and top it with a crumb coat of buttercream, refrigerate to set briefly, then frost the entire cake. Decorate with extra salted caramel and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt if desired.
Optional: Drizzle additional caramel on top for extra flair!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Salted Caramel Cake Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity and customize this cake to suit your taste buds with these delightful variations!
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Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend to keep the cake delicious and suitable for those with dietary restrictions. You won’t sacrifice taste or texture!
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Nutty Addition: Fold in chopped pecans or walnuts into the batter for a delightful crunch. These nuts will add both flavor and texture contrasts to each bite.
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Chocolate Twist: Incorporate cocoa powder to the cake batter for a rich chocolate flavor paired with salted caramel. This indulgent twist creates a dreamy chocolate-caramel delight.
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Fruit Infusion: Layer in fresh, sliced apples or pears in between cake layers for a burst of fruity freshness. The fruitiness complements the rich caramel perfectly while adding moisture.
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Spiced Variations: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm, spiced flavor. This simple change invites a whole new layer of complexity to your classic salted caramel cake.
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Vegan Option: Replace eggs with flaxseed meal and use coconut oil plus a non-dairy milk for a scrumptious vegan version. The caramel remains the same, ensuring zero compromise on flavor!
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Flavor Enhancements: Experiment with different extracts like almond or orange to create a personalized flavor profile. A little extract can go a long way in transforming the cake!
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Frosting Fusion: Try a flavored buttercream, such as mocha or cream cheese, for a unique take that pairs beautifully with the salted caramel. The contrasting flavors create an indulgent celebration of taste.
What to Serve with Salted Caramel Cake?
Indulge in a delightful dining experience by complementing your stunning cake with the perfect side dishes and beverages.
- Fresh Berries: Their natural sweetness balances the richness of the cake, adding a refreshing burst of flavor. Consider serving strawberries or blueberries for a vibrant touch.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream harmonizes beautifully with the salted caramel, cooling each decadent bite while enhancing the cake’s flavors.
- Espresso or Coffee: The boldness of coffee enhances the caramel’s richness, making each bite a heavenly treat paired with a warm beverage.
- Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of freshly whipped cream can offset the cake’s sweetness, creating a delightful contrast for your palate.
- Chocolate Ganache: Adding a layer of chocolate ganache brings depth to the experience, as the bitterness of dark chocolate plays beautifully against the sweet caramel.
- Nutty Snack Mix: For a crunchy twist, serve a small bowl of roasted nuts or a nut mixture. The saltiness pairs wonderfully with the cake’s sweetness, creating a perfect balance.
- Sparkling Water with Lime: This fizzy refresher cleanses your palate between bites and adds a zesty note that elevates the tasting experience.
- Champagne or Prosecco: For a celebratory touch, a glass of bubbly complements the cake perfectly, enhancing the festive atmosphere of any occasion.
- Caramel Sauce Drizzle: Take it to the next level by offering extra homemade caramel sauce for guests to drizzle on their slices—pure indulgence!
- Cheese Platter: An assortment of mild cheeses can create a delightful contrast, making the savory elements a perfect companion to the sweet cake.
Expert Tips for Salted Caramel Cake
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for better emulsification, resulting in a lighter cake texture.
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Caramel Caution: When making salted caramel, watch closely to prevent burning. It can cause severe burns; use long-handled utensils.
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Balancing Sweetness: If your buttercream is too sweet, add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor, bringing out the salted caramel cake’s depth.
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Crumb Coat Importance: Apply a crumb coat to seal in crumbs and achieve a smooth final appearance. Refrigerate before applying the final frosting layer.
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Testing for Doneness: Use a cake tester to check if your cake is fully baked; it should come out clean to prevent over-baking and dryness.
How to Store and Freeze Salted Caramel Cake
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Room Temperature: Keep the cake at room temperature for up to 2 days, covered with a cake dome or wrapped in plastic to maintain freshness.
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Fridge: Store any leftover pieces in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. This prevents the cake from drying out while keeping the flavors intact.
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Freezer: For longer storage, wrap slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap followed by foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before enjoying.
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Reheating: If desired, gently reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This brings back the cake’s moist texture while the flavors shine through.
Make Ahead Options
These Salted Caramel Cake elements are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the salted caramel up to 3 days in advance; just refrigerate it in an airtight container to keep it fresh and flavorful. The cake layers can also be baked up to 24 hours ahead; once cooled, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap to prevent dryness. On the day of serving, simply assemble the cake by adding the buttercream between layers and frosting the outside. This way, you can enjoy delicious homemade cake without the rush on a busy day, delivering the same delightful flavor just as if it were freshly made!
Salted Caramel Cake Recipe FAQs
What type of sugar is best for making salted caramel?
When making salted caramel, granulated sugar is typically the best choice as it melts evenly and creates a smooth caramel. If you’re looking for a deeper flavor, consider using coconut sugar, which caramelizes beautifully and adds a subtle nuttiness to your caramel.
How should I store leftover salted caramel cake?
For short-term storage, keep your Salted Caramel Cake at room temperature in a covered cake dome or wrapped in plastic for up to 2 days. For extended freshness, transfer leftover pieces to an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 5 days. This will ensure the cake remains moist and delicious!
Can I freeze salted caramel cake, and if so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze your Salted Caramel Cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. This method prevents freezer burn and secures freshness. You can freeze whole cakes or individual slices for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight, and it will be as delightful as the day it was baked.
What should I do if my salted caramel is grainy?
If your salted caramel turns out grainy, it usually means the sugar crystalized during cooking. To fix this, start over by adding a little water to the pan with the burnt caramel and gently heating it while stirring until it dissolves. Monitor closely this time, and avoid stirring once the sugar dissolves to prevent crystallization. Remember, patience is key with caramel!
Is there a dairy-free version of this salted caramel cake?
Yes! To make a dairy-free Salted Caramel Cake, substitute butter with a plant-based butter alternative, use almond or coconut milk instead of sour cream, and opt for full-fat coconut cream for the buttercream frosting. Coconut milk also works beautifully for the caramel, providing a nice flavor twist while keeping the richness intact.
Can pets eat salted caramel cake?
It’s best to keep salted caramel cake away from pets. Ingredients like chocolate or excessive sugar can be harmful, and the high-fat content of cream and butter isn’t suitable for them. Always stick to pet-safe treats if you’re looking to reward your furry friends!
These questions and answers should help you navigate your Salted Caramel Cake journey with ease!
Irresistible Salted Caramel Cake for Unforgettable Celebrations
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Salted Caramel: In a medium saucepan, combine sugar and water over medium-high heat. Stir gently until the mixture turns golden brown—this should take about 8-10 minutes. Gradually mix in butter and heavy cream until smooth. Add salt, stirring well, then set it aside to cool in the fridge.
- Make the Cake Batter: Preheat your oven to 340ºF (170ºC). In a bowl, sift the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and baking soda together. In a separate mixing bowl, cream the unsalted butter and granulated sugar, then add eggs one at a time. Alternate adding the dry mixture with sour cream, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until fully combined.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into greased cake pans and bake for 19-23 minutes. Use a toothpick or cake tester to check for doneness; it should come out clean when inserted into the center. Allow the cakes to cool on wire racks completely.
- Prepare the Buttercream Frosting: In a large bowl, whip the unsalted butter until fluffy and light. Gradually incorporate powdered sugar and remaining vanilla extract. Fold in your prepared salted caramel until you achieve a rich, smooth consistency.
- Assemble the Cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous layer of buttercream on top. Drizzle some salted caramel over it. Repeat with the second layer and top it with a crumb coat of buttercream, refrigerate to set briefly, then frost the entire cake. Decorate with extra salted caramel and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt if desired.