If you’ve ever dreamed of a dessert that perfectly balances rich decadence with a velvety texture, this Creamy Caramel Layer Cake Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. Each bite reveals moist, tender cake layers infused with luscious caramel, topped and filled with a dreamy caramel whipped cream that simply melts in your mouth. This cake is not just a treat; it’s a showstopper that brings warmth and joy to any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or a special celebration. It’s a sweet embrace of caramel goodness that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Creating this indulgent cake is surprisingly straightforward thanks to a few simple, yet essential ingredients. Each one plays a special role in building the rich flavor, moist texture, and creamy finish that makes this dessert unforgettable.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The backbone of our cake, providing structure and a tender crumb.
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar: Adds the perfect sweetness and helps create a light texture.
- ½ cup packed light brown sugar: Brings a subtle molasses flavor that deepens the caramel notes.
- 1 tsp baking powder: Helps the cake rise beautifully for soft and fluffy layers.
- ½ tsp baking soda: Works with the acidic buttermilk to create lift and tenderness.
- ½ tsp salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the rich flavors.
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened): Adds luxury and moisture for an incredibly tender cake.
- 4 large eggs: Bind everything together and contribute to the cake’s light texture.
- 1 cup buttermilk (room temperature): Adds a subtle tang and keeps the cake moist and soft.
- 2 tsp vanilla extract: Infuses classic warmth and enhances the caramel’s natural sweetness.
- 1 cup caramel sauce (divided): The star ingredient, used in both the batter and frosting for a double dose of caramel bliss.
- ½ cup heavy cream: Whipped to create a light, creamy frosting that’s not overwhelming.
- ¼ cup powdered sugar: Sweetens and stabilizes the whipped cream for a perfect finish.
How to Make Creamy Caramel Layer Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pans and Preheat
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans to ensure your cakes come out clean and smooth. This simple step sets the stage for baking the perfect layers.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Combining these ingredients well ensures even distribution of leavening agents and sugar, which is crucial for uniform rising and flavor.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Incorporate Eggs
Add the softened butter to the dry mix and beat until you achieve a crumbly texture. Then, add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. This process traps air and gives your cake a wonderful lightness, making the layers fluffy and tender.
Step 4: Add Buttermilk, Vanilla, and Caramel
Pour in the buttermilk and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth. Next, gently stir in half of the caramel sauce; this infusion gives the batter that unmistakable caramel richness and deep flavor.
Step 5: Bake the Cake Layers
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and slide them into your preheated oven. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. This baking time ensures a moist crumb with an inviting golden color.
Step 6: Cool and Prepare the Frosting
After baking, allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Meanwhile, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. Gently fold in the remaining caramel sauce to create a luscious, creamy frosting that complements the cake beautifully.
Step 7: Assemble Your Cake
Once your cakes are fully cooled, spread the caramel whipped cream generously between the layers, then coat the top and sides with the remaining frosting. For best results, chill the cake to let the flavors meld and the frosting set perfectly before slicing and serving.
How to Serve Creamy Caramel Layer Cake Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate the presentation, sprinkle flaky sea salt on top for a sophisticated salted caramel twist or add a few caramel drizzle lines. Toasted pecans or chopped walnuts add a delightful crunch that contrasts the cake’s softness.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs wonderfully with fresh berries or a simple scoop of vanilla bean ice cream to balance the richness. For coffee lovers, a dark roast or a creamy latte is the perfect beverage to accompany each indulgent slice.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this cake on a beautiful cake stand adorned with edible gold leaf or caramel shards for a special occasion. For a casual gathering, slice into generous wedges and arrange on rustic wooden platters to invite sharing and conversation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap any leftover cake tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and moist for up to 3 days, making it an ideal make-ahead dessert for busy schedules.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy the Creamy Caramel Layer Cake Recipe later, freeze individual slices or the whole cake. Wrap it securely in freezer-safe foil and place in a sealed container to prevent freezer burn. Defrost overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Reheating
For the best experience, enjoy this cake chilled or at room temperature. While the cake is not ideal for reheating, bringing it to room temperature from the fridge will revive its creamy texture and flavor perfectly.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought caramel sauce for this recipe?
Absolutely! Store-bought caramel sauce works wonderfully and saves time. Just choose a high-quality caramel for the most authentic flavor.
Is it okay to substitute regular milk for buttermilk?
You can substitute regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to mimic buttermilk’s acidity, which keeps the cake tender and helps it rise properly.
How long can I keep this cake before serving?
For the freshest taste and texture, it’s best to serve the cake within 2 to 3 days of baking. The flavors actually develop nicely overnight if refrigerated properly.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, you can try a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, but be mindful that texture and crumb might vary slightly. Adding a binding agent like xanthan gum can help maintain structure.
What’s the best way to get clean slices of this creamy cake?
Use a sharp, thin-bladed knife and wipe it clean between slices. Chilling the cake before cutting also helps the frosting hold its shape for perfectly neat pieces.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Caramel Layer Cake Recipe is more than just a dessert—it’s a heartwarming experience that brings a little sweetness and joy to any day. Whether you’re baking for family or impressing guests, this cake’s luscious layers and velvety frosting promise plenty of smiles and satisfied cravings. So go ahead, treat yourself and your loved ones to this incredible caramel delight—you won’t regret it!
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Creamy Caramel Layer Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Creamy Caramel Cake features moist buttermilk layers infused with rich caramel sauce and topped with a luscious caramel whipped cream frosting. Perfect for any celebration, this American-style dessert combines classic flavors and creamy textures for an indulgent treat.
Ingredients
Cake
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ½ cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk, room temperature
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup caramel sauce, divided
Frosting
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- ½ cup caramel sauce
Instructions
- Prepare Pans and Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until evenly combined.
- Combine Butter and Dry Mix: Add the softened butter to the dry ingredients and beat with a mixer until the mixture becomes crumbly and well incorporated.
- Add Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to ensure the batter is smooth and cohesive.
- Incorporate Wet Ingredients: Pour in the room temperature buttermilk and vanilla extract, then beat the mixture until the batter is smooth and well blended.
- Add Caramel Sauce: Stir in ½ cup of the caramel sauce until fully incorporated into the batter.
- Bake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool Cakes: Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to wire racks to cool completely before frosting.
- Make Frosting: Beat the heavy cream and powdered sugar together until stiff peaks form, then gently fold in the remaining ½ cup of caramel sauce to create the caramel whipped cream.
- Assemble Cake: Spread the caramel whipped cream between the cake layers and over the top and sides of the cake evenly.
- Chill and Serve: Chill the assembled cake before serving for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- You can use store-bought or homemade caramel sauce depending on your preference.
- Add a pinch of sea salt to the caramel sauce for a delicious salted caramel variation.
- The cake layers can be baked a day ahead and stored wrapped at room temperature.
