Salted Caramel Cake

The Salted Caramel Cake is a dessert that will elevate any occasion. With its layers of moist vanilla cake paired with luscious homemade salted caramel and a rich buttercream, this cake is perfect for celebrations, gatherings, or simply treating yourself. Its stunning appearance and delightful flavors make it an impressive showstopper that everyone will adore.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of salted caramel and vanilla creates a deliciously balanced taste that appeals to all palates.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday party or a cozy family dinner, this cake fits right in.
• Showstopping Presentation: Layers of cake and caramel come together to create an eye-catching centerpiece.
• Easy to Make: With clear instructions, even novice bakers can achieve great results.
• Versatile Options: Customize by adding different fillings or toppings to suit your preferences.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into baking, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Electric mixer (or whisk)
• Spatula
• 9-inch round cake pans
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: This tool saves time and ensures that your batter is mixed thoroughly for a light, fluffy texture.
• 9-inch round cake pans: These pans are perfect for achieving even layers that stack beautifully.

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Ingredients

To create a scrumptious Salted Caramel Cake, you will need the following 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 Salted Caramel

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the granulated sugar and water.
2. Stir until the sugar dissolves. Allow it to boil without stirring until it turns a golden amber color.
3. Remove from heat and carefully add butter and heavy cream while stirring continuously.
4. Add a big pinch of salt and mix well. Set aside to cool.

Step 2: Make the Cake Batter

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour your 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In another bowl, beat room temperature butter with granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then mix in sour cream, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

1. Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet ingredients while mixing on low speed until just combined.

Step 4: Bake the Cakes

1. Divide the batter evenly between prepared pans.
2. Bake for about 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
3. Let cakes cool in pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.

Step 5: Make the Buttercream

1. Beat room temperature butter until creamy; gradually add powdered sugar until fully combined.
2. Mix in vanilla extract and enough caramel to achieve your desired flavor.

Step 6: Assemble Your Cake

1. Once cakes are completely cooled, level them if necessary.
2. Place one layer on a serving plate; spread salted caramel on top followed by some buttercream.
3. Repeat with remaining layers; frost the entire cake with remaining buttercream.

Enjoy every slice of this delightful Salted Caramel Cake!

How to Serve Salted Caramel Cake

Serving Salted Caramel Cake can turn any occasion into a celebration. This rich and decadent dessert pairs beautifully with various accompaniments that enhance its sweet and salty flavors.

Classic Pairings

• Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a light texture to the cake.
• Fresh Berries: Raspberries or strawberries provide a tart contrast that balances the sweetness of the cake.
• Ice Cream: Vanilla or caramel ice cream complements the flavors and adds creaminess.

Creative Additions

• Toasted Nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts bring a crunchy element that pairs well with the soft cake.
• Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling warm chocolate sauce over each slice adds an indulgent touch.
• Caramel Drizzle: Enhance the salted caramel flavor by drizzling extra homemade caramel over the top before serving.

How to Perfect Salted Caramel Cake

To achieve the best results with your Salted Caramel Cake, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure your cake is moist, flavorful, and visually appealing.

• Bold Baking Powder Check: Always check that your baking powder is fresh for optimal rise.
• Bold Room Temperature Ingredients: Using eggs, butter, and sour cream at room temperature helps create a smoother batter.
• Bold Follow Timing: Keep an eye on baking times since slight variations can affect texture; use a toothpick to check doneness.
• Bold Layer Evenness: Level each layer of cake before stacking to ensure stability and an even appearance.

Best Side Dishes for Salted Caramel Cake

Pairing side dishes with your Salted Caramel Cake can elevate your dessert experience and provide delightful contrasts in flavor. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic choice that offers a creamy complement to the cake’s richness.
2. Berry Compote: A warm fruit sauce made from mixed berries adds brightness and acidity.
3. Chocolate Mousse: Light and airy, this dessert brings a luxurious touch alongside the cake.
4. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides freshness and balance to the sweetness of the cake.
5. Coffee or Espresso: The bitterness of coffee enhances the flavors of salted caramel beautifully.
6. Milkshakes: Thick vanilla or chocolate milkshakes make for a fun and nostalgic pairing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Salted Caramel Cake can be a delightful experience, but it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your cake turns out perfectly.

• Boldly measuring ingredients: Always use a kitchen scale for precision. Incorrect measurements can lead to an unbalanced cake.
• Ignoring room temperature: Ensure butter, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature. Cold ingredients can cause the batter to curdle or not mix well.
• Rushing the caramel: When making the salted caramel, take your time. If you cook it too quickly, it may burn or not achieve the right consistency.
• Overmixing the batter: Mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a tough cake instead of a fluffy one.
• Not letting layers cool: Make sure each layer cools completely before frosting. Warm layers can cause the frosting to melt and slide off.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Salted Caramel Cake in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Salted Caramel Cake

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container.
• 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 heat for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat for 15-20 seconds per slice on a microwave-safe plate for quick warming.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat, covering it with a lid for about 5 minutes until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Salted Caramel Cake that may help clarify any uncertainties.

Can I use different flavors for the cake?

Yes! You can experiment with different extracts like almond or lemon zest for unique flavor variations.

How do I make homemade salted caramel?

To make homemade salted caramel, cook sugar and water until it melts and turns amber, then add butter and cream off the heat, stirring in salt.

How long does Salted Caramel Cake last?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, your Salted Caramel Cake will last up to 5 days before it starts losing freshness.

Can I freeze my Salted Caramel Cake?

Absolutely! Just wrap it well in plastic wrap and store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

Final Thoughts

This Salted Caramel Cake is not just a treat; it’s an experience! With its moist vanilla layers and rich salted caramel flavor, it’s perfect for celebrations or simply indulging yourself. Feel free to customize it with different fillings or frostings to suit your taste!