The Salted Caramel Cake is a delightful dessert that combines layers of moist vanilla cake with rich homemade salted caramel and creamy buttercream. This cake is perfect for celebrations, gatherings, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth. The unique blend of flavors and textures makes it a standout treat that will impress everyone at the table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Decadent Flavor: The combination of salted caramel and vanilla creates a rich taste that is both sweet and savory.
- Versatile for Occasions: Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or just an afternoon treat, this cake suits any event.
- Impressive Layering: The stunning layers not only look beautiful but offer a delightful contrast in texture with every slice.
- Homemade Goodness: Making your own caramel adds a personal touch that enhances the flavor profile.
- Easy to Customize: You can modify the cake with different filling options or decorations to fit your preferences.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
- Cake pans
Importance of Each Tool
- Electric mixer: This tool ensures that your batter is mixed thoroughly and achieves the perfect consistency for the best Salted Caramel Cake.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial in baking, helping you achieve consistent results every time.
Ingredients
For the Salted Caramel
- 140 g granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 tbsp water
- 40 g butter
- 150 g heavy cream
- big pinch of salt
For the Cake
- 340 g all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 3/4 tsp baking powder
- 3/4 tsp baking soda
- 3/4 tsp salt
- 180 g butter (room temperature)
- 300 g granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs (room temperature)
- 240 g sour cream 14-18% (room temperature)
- 60 g vegetable oil (e.g., canola oil)
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
For the Buttercream
- 400 g butter (room temperature)
- 660 g powdered sugar
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2-3 tbsp caramel
How to Make Salted Caramel Cake
Step 1: Prepare the Caramel
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine 140 g granulated sugar and 1 1/2 tbsp water.
- Stir gently until the sugar dissolves. Allow it to simmer without stirring until it turns a golden amber color.
- Remove from heat and carefully add 40 g butter and 150 g heavy cream while stirring constantly.
- Mix in a big pinch of salt.
- Let it cool before using.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
- In a large bowl, whisk together 340 g all-purpose flour, 2 tbsp cornstarch, 3/4 tsp baking powder, 3/4 tsp baking soda, and 3/4 tsp salt until well combined.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
- In another bowl, beat together 180 g room temperature butter and 300 g granulated sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy.
- Add in four large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Blend in 240 g sour cream, 60 g vegetable oil, and 2 tsp vanilla extract until smooth.
Step 4: Combine Mixtures
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined.
Step 5: Bake the Cakes
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Divide the batter evenly among greased cake pans.
- Bake for about 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let them cool completely in pans before transferring to wire racks.
Step 6: Make the Buttercream
- Beat together the remaining 400 g room temperature butter until creamy.
- Gradually add in 660 g powdered sugar while mixing on low speed.
- Pour in two teaspoons of vanilla extract and mix until well combined.
Step 7: Assemble Your Cake
- Place one layer of cake on a serving platter.
- Spread some salted caramel over it followed by a layer of buttercream.
- Repeat with remaining layers.
- Top with additional caramel drizzles if desired.
Your delicious Salted Caramel Cake is now ready to be served! Enjoy every bite of this scrumptious dessert that brings joy to any occasion!
How to Serve Salted Caramel Cake
Serving Salted Caramel Cake can elevate any gathering, making it a delightful centerpiece. Whether it’s a birthday celebration or a casual family dinner, here are some creative ways to present this delicious cake.
Classic Presentation
- Serve each slice on a decorative plate for an elegant touch.
- Drizzle extra salted caramel sauce over the top for added flavor.
With Fresh Fruits
- Pair with seasonal fruits like berries or sliced apples to balance the sweetness.
- A side of whipped cream can complement the cake nicely.
Ice Cream Delight
- Serve with a scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience.
- Warm the cake slightly before serving with ice cream for a melty treat.
Coffee or Tea Pairing
- Offer slices alongside a cup of coffee or tea to enhance the flavors.
- A lightly brewed herbal tea can be refreshing against the rich cake.
How to Perfect Salted Caramel Cake
To achieve the perfect Salted Caramel Cake, attention to detail is key. Here are some tips that will help you create a stunning dessert.
- Use room temperature ingredients: Ensure butter, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
- Measure accurately: Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements, especially for flour and sugar, to avoid inconsistencies in your cake.
- Cool layers completely: Allow cake layers to cool completely before frosting. This prevents melting your salted caramel buttercream.
- Homemade salted caramel: Make your own salted caramel for fresher flavor and control over sweetness and saltiness.
- Chill before serving: Refrigerate the frosted cake for at least 30 minutes before slicing. This helps the layers set and makes cutting easier.
Best Side Dishes for Salted Caramel Cake
Pairing side dishes with Salted Caramel Cake can enhance its flavors and create a well-rounded dessert experience. Here are some great options to consider.
- Fresh Berries: A mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries adds brightness and tartness that complements the sweet cake.
- Whipped Cream: Lightly sweetened whipped cream offers a creamy contrast that pairs beautifully with salted caramel flavors.
- Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle rich chocolate sauce over each slice for an indulgent chocolatey twist alongside the salted caramel.
- Caramel Popcorn: Sweet and crunchy caramel popcorn makes a fun snack that echoes the flavors of the cake.
- Cheesecake Bites: Small cheesecake squares provide a creamy texture that pairs well with the moistness of the cake.
- Tea Cookies: Simple butter cookies or shortbread complement the richness of the cake without overwhelming it.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making a Salted Caramel Cake can be easy, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Incorrect measurements: Always measure your ingredients accurately. Using too much flour or sugar can affect the cake’s texture.
- Overmixing the batter: Mixing too long can lead to a dense cake. Mix until just combined for a light and fluffy result.
- Using cold ingredients: Ensure that your eggs, butter, and sour cream are at room temperature. Cold ingredients can prevent the cake from rising properly.
- Skipping the cooling time: Allow the cake layers to cool completely before frosting. Frosting a warm cake can cause the buttercream to melt and slide off.
- Not testing for doneness: Use a toothpick to check if your cake is done. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, it’s ready; overbaking can dry it out.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store the Salted Caramel Cake in an airtight container.
- It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freezing Salted Caramel Cake
- Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag.
- The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Salted Caramel Cake
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place slices on a baking sheet and warm for about 10–15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 15–20 seconds until warm.
- Stovetop: Use a non-stick skillet over low heat. Cover with a lid and warm for about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Salted Caramel Cake.
Can I use other flavors in my Salted Caramel Cake?
Yes! You can add different extracts like almond or lemon to change the flavor profile of your cake base.
How do I make my salted caramel sauce thicker?
To thicken your salted caramel sauce, simmer it longer after adding cream until you achieve your desired consistency.
Can I substitute sour cream in this recipe?
You may use Greek yogurt as an alternative to sour cream without changing the flavor significantly.
What is the best way to serve Salted Caramel Cake?
Serve chilled or at room temperature, optionally garnished with extra salted caramel drizzles or chocolate shavings for added flair.
Final Thoughts
This Salted Caramel Cake is not just delicious but also versatile. It offers endless customization options, from adding nuts to swapping flavors. Try it out and impress your guests with this stunning dessert!
Salted Caramel Cake
Indulge in the delightful experience of our Salted Caramel Cake, a perfect blend of moist vanilla layers and rich homemade salted caramel. This dessert stands out not just for its decadent flavor but also for its beautiful presentation, making it an ideal centerpiece for any occasion—from birthdays to casual gatherings. The combination of sweet and salty notes in this cake will satisfy your cravings and impress your guests. With its creamy buttercream frosting and customizable options, this Salted Caramel Cake is sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: About 12 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 140 g granulated sugar (for caramel)
- 1 1/2 tbsp water
- 40 g butter
- 150 g heavy cream
- big pinch of salt
- 340 g all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 3/4 tsp baking powder
- 3/4 tsp baking soda
- 3/4 tsp salt
- 180 g butter (room temperature)
- 300 g granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs (room temperature)
- 240 g sour cream (room temperature)
- 60 g vegetable oil (e.g., canola oil)
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 400 g butter (for frosting)
- 660 g powdered sugar
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2–3 tbsp caramel
Instructions
- Prepare the salted caramel by heating sugar and water until golden amber, then blend in butter, cream, and salt. Let cool.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Beat room-temperature butter with granulated sugar until fluffy; add eggs one at a time.
- Mix in sour cream, oil, and vanilla until smooth; combine with dry ingredients.
- Bake in preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes.
- For buttercream, beat room-temperature butter; gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla.
- Assemble the cake with layers of salted caramel and buttercream.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 490
- Sugar: 55g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 62g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: Use room temperature ingredients for better mixing. Allow cake layers to cool completely before frosting to maintain structure. Customize by adding nuts or using different extracts.