There is something truly magical about this Luxurious Salted Caramel Cake Recipe that captivates every dessert lover’s heart. Imagine tender, moist layers of cake infused with the rich, buttery essence of salted caramel, all wrapped in a smooth, creamy salted caramel frosting that melts in your mouth. This cake isn’t just any dessert – it’s a celebration on a plate, perfect for special occasions or whenever you crave a slice of pure indulgence. The harmonious balance of sweet and salty flavors makes this cake unforgettable and irresistibly delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Luxurious Salted Caramel Cake Recipe lies in using simple, high-quality ingredients that come together to create an extraordinary flavor and texture. Each item plays an essential role, from the fluffy cake layers to the luscious frosting that crowns the dessert.
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the perfect structure and tenderness to your cake layers.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cake rise gently for a light texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Adds lift and helps balance the acidity in the batter.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances flavor and balances the sweetness throughout the cake.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Gives the cake its rich, buttery foundation and crumb.
- 1 1/4 cups brown sugar, packed: Adds moisture and deep caramel notes.
- 3 large eggs: Bind the ingredients and provide richness and structure.
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract: Brings warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
- 1 cup whole milk: Keeps the cake moist and tender.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Adds tanginess and helps keep the crumb soft and rich.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Used in the frosting to create a silky, luscious texture.
- 1/2 cup salted caramel sauce: Infuses the batter with that signature sweet and salty magic.
- For the salted caramel frosting: 1 cup unsalted butter (softened), 2 1/2 cups powdered sugar, 1/4 cup salted caramel sauce, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1/4 teaspoon salt.
How to Make Luxurious Salted Caramel Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pans and Dry Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing two 9-inch round cake pans. Lightly flour them to ensure your cake layers come out clean and perfectly shaped. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This dry mix is the backbone of your cake’s structure and flavor, so take a moment to ensure it’s combined well.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter and brown sugar with a hand or stand mixer on medium speed. This step is crucial as the air you whip into the butter and sugar creates a light and fluffy texture in your cake. Beat for about 3 to 4 minutes until you see the mixture lighten in color and become airy.
Step 3: Incorporate Eggs and Flavor
Add the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully mixed in before adding the next. This slows the process and avoids curdling, helping maintain that smooth batter. Then, stir in the vanilla extract for that unmistakably sweet aroma that will fill your kitchen.
Step 4: Alternate Dry Ingredients and Wet Mixtures
Now, mix together the milk and sour cream in a separate bowl. Add the dry ingredients to your butter mixture in three parts, alternating with the milk and sour cream. Start and end with the dry mix, stirring gently each time until just combined to avoid overmixing, which can make the cake dense.
Step 5: Fold in the Star Ingredient
Gently fold in the 1/2 cup of salted caramel sauce until it is evenly distributed throughout the batter. This step infuses the cake with a wave of salty-sweet flavor that is the heart of this luxurious recipe.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Divide the batter evenly between your prepared pans and smooth the tops. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The smell coming from the oven will already have you eager for the next step.
Step 7: Cool and Prepare Frosting
Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then transfer them onto wire racks to cool completely. While waiting, make your salted caramel frosting by beating the softened butter until creamy, gradually adding powdered sugar, then mixing in salted caramel sauce, vanilla extract, and salt for the perfect balance of flavors and a luscious fluffy texture.
Step 8: Assemble Your Luxurious Salted Caramel Cake Recipe
Place the first cake layer on your favorite serving plate. Spread a generous layer of frosting on top, then add the second cake layer. Continue frosting the top and sides of the cake elegantly. Finally, drizzle extra salted caramel sauce over the cake for that wow factor, making your cake look as spectacular as it tastes. Let it stand for around 30 minutes to let the frosting set before slicing.
How to Serve Luxurious Salted Caramel Cake Recipe
Garnishes
A few simple garnishes can elevate your cake presentation. Try sprinkling flaky sea salt over the caramel drizzle for a refined touch or adding caramelized nuts like pecans for crunch and sophistication. Fresh edible flowers or a dusting of cocoa powder can also add visual appeal and texture contrast.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs wonderfully with light and refreshing accompaniments. Serve alongside vanilla bean ice cream or a scoop of tangy lemon sorbet to balance the rich caramel flavors. A small bowl of fresh berries can also add an inviting pop of color and acidity to brighten the palate.
Creative Ways to Present
For celebrations, consider turning this Luxurious Salted Caramel Cake Recipe into a mini tiered cake or decorating it with caramel rosettes piped from the frosting for an elegant look. You could also serve slices on decadent dessert plates drizzled with extra caramel and a sprinkle of sea salt to wow your guests visually and taste-wise.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your feast, wrap any leftover cake tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. The cake will keep fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, maintaining its moistness and wonderful caramel flavor.
Freezing
If you want to make this cake ahead of time or save some for later, it freezes beautifully. Freeze unfrosted cake layers wrapped well in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months. Thaw completely before frosting to ensure the best texture and taste.
Reheating
For the best experience, bring refrigerated or thawed slices to room temperature before serving. If you prefer a slightly warm slice, gently microwave a piece for 10 to 15 seconds — this will melt the frosting just enough for a luscious bite without altering the cake’s texture.
FAQs
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?
Yes, you can use salted butter, but you may want to reduce or omit the additional salt in the recipe to avoid an overly salty flavor. Adjusting the salt lets the caramel’s sweet-salty balance shine through perfectly.
Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Make sure it contains xanthan gum or add a teaspoon yourself to help maintain the cake’s structure.
Can I make salted caramel sauce from scratch?
Definitely! Homemade salted caramel sauce is easy to make using sugar, butter, cream, and salt. Using fresh sauce will give your Luxurious Salted Caramel Cake Recipe an even richer and more vibrant flavor.
How long does it take to frost the cake?
Frosting the cake takes about 15 to 20 minutes once the layers have cooled. Taking your time to spread the frosting evenly will ensure a beautiful finish that impresses everyone.
Can I substitute sour cream with yogurt?
Yes, plain Greek yogurt is a great substitute for sour cream and will provide a similar tang and moisture level to the cake layers. Just use the same amount to keep the texture balanced.
Final Thoughts
There is nothing quite like sinking your fork into this Luxurious Salted Caramel Cake Recipe — it’s a true delight, filled with luscious layers and that perfect hint of salt to balance the sweetness. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply to treat yourself, this cake will become a cherished favorite. I encourage you to dive in and discover the joy of creating and sharing this truly spectacular dessert with those you love.
Print
Luxurious Salted Caramel Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 20m
- Cook Time: 0h 30m
- Total Time: 0h 50m
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Indulge in a decadent Luxurious Salted Caramel Cake featuring moist layers of rich vanilla cake infused with salted caramel sauce. Topped with a creamy salted caramel frosting and finished with a drizzle of extra caramel, this cake offers a perfect balance of buttery sweetness and a hint of saltiness for an unforgettable dessert experience.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/4 cups brown sugar, packed
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup salted caramel sauce
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
For the Salted Caramel Frosting
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup salted caramel sauce
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Prepare Pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until combined. Set aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat softened butter and brown sugar with a mixer on medium speed for 3-4 minutes until light and fluffy.
- Add Eggs: Add eggs one at a time to the butter mixture, beating well after each addition and scraping the sides of the bowl to incorporate all ingredients.
- Incorporate Vanilla: Stir in the vanilla extract to enhance flavor.
- Combine Milk and Sour Cream: In a separate bowl, mix whole milk and sour cream together.
- Add Dry and Wet Ingredients Alternately: Add the dry ingredient mixture in three parts to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk-sour cream blend, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix each addition until just combined to maintain cake tenderness.
- Fold in Salted Caramel: Gently fold in the salted caramel sauce until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Divide Batter: Pour batter evenly into the prepared cake pans.
- Bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. This ensures the cake is fully cooked but moist.
- Cool Cakes: Let the cakes cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Make Frosting: While cakes cool, beat softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar one cup at a time, beating until smooth. Add salted caramel sauce, vanilla, and salt, and beat until frosting is fluffy and light.
- Assemble Cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate, spread a generous amount of frosting on top.
- Add Second Layer and Frost: Place the second cake layer on top and cover the entire cake (top and sides) with the salted caramel frosting.
- Decorate: Drizzle extra salted caramel sauce over the cake for an elegant finish.
- Set and Serve: Allow the cake to set for about 30 minutes so the frosting firms slightly, then slice and serve for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Ensure butter is softened to room temperature for smooth mixing.
- Do not overmix the batter once dry ingredients are added to keep the cake tender.
- Using salted caramel sauce inside the batter and in the frosting enhances the flavor complexity.
- For cleaner cake slices, refrigerate the cake for 15-20 minutes before cutting.
- Leftover cake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
