Brown Butter Caramel Cake

If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert that’s sure to impress, then you’ve found it with this Brown Butter Caramel Cake! This cake is not only incredibly moist but also bursting with rich brown butter flavor. The layers are filled with gooey caramel sauce and topped with a fluffy brown butter cream cheese frosting that will have your taste buds dancing. It’s perfect for family gatherings, birthday celebrations, or even just a cozy night in with your loved ones. Every slice brings a little joy and sweetness that makes any occasion feel special.

I can’t help but smile every time I bake this cake. It’s one of those recipes that has become a staple in my kitchen—perfect for when I want to whip up something delightful without too much fuss. Trust me, whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this Brown Butter Caramel Cake is worth every minute spent in the kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple to make: With straightforward steps, you’ll find this cake easy to prepare, even on busy days.
• Decadent flavor: The combination of brown butter and caramel creates a rich taste that will wow your friends and family.
• Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a birthday party or just a family dinner, this cake fits right in!
• Make-ahead friendly: You can prepare the components ahead of time, making it convenient for gatherings.
• Family-approved: Even the pickiest eaters will love the moist texture and sweet flavors of this delightful cake.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You don’t need fancy ingredients to make this amazing Brown Butter Caramel Cake! Just grab some simple and wholesome items from your pantry and refrigerator. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Cake

• 2 cups (448 g) unsalted butter
• 2 1/4 cups (282 g) all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
• 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 cup (200 g) granulated white sugar
• 1/2 cup (110 g) brown sugar
• 3 eggs, at room temperature
• 1 tbsp vanilla
• 1 cup (240 ml) buttermilk, at room temperature

For the Caramel Sauce

• 9 tbsp (126 g) unsalted butter
• 3/4 cup (165 g) brown sugar
• 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
• 1 1/2 tsp vanilla
• 1/4 tsp salt

For the Frosting

• 8 oz (226 g) cream cheese, cold
• 2 cups (260 g) powdered sugar

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with different flavors or ingredients to make it your own.

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch.
• Switch up the frosting: Try using whipped cream instead of cream cheese frosting for a lighter touch.
• Incorporate fruit: Layer fresh sliced bananas or apples between the cake layers for an extra fruity burst.
• Experiment with extracts: Use almond or maple extract in place of vanilla for a unique twist on flavor.

How to Make Brown Butter Caramel Cake

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Greasing your cake pans is essential; this ensures that our beautiful cake comes out easily after baking!

Step 2: Make the Brown Butter

Melt the unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Continue cooking until it turns golden brown and develops a nutty aroma—this step is so important as it adds depth of flavor to our cake. Let it cool slightly before mixing it into other wet ingredients.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This step helps distribute the leavening agents evenly throughout the flour so we can achieve that perfect rise.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, combine granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, buttermilk, and cooled brown butter. Whisk until smooth. This blend will create an incredibly moist batter!

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake—I always like to stop mixing as soon as there are no dry streaks left!

Step 6: Bake Your Cake

Divide the batter evenly between prepared pans and bake for about 30-36 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Your kitchen will smell heavenly during this time!

Step 7: Make the Caramel Sauce

While your cakes are cooling, prepare your caramel sauce by melting unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat again. Add brown sugar and stir until melted before pouring in heavy cream—and watch how it transforms into luscious caramel!

Step 8: Prepare Frosting

Beat cold cream cheese until smooth in another bowl. Gradually add powdered sugar while mixing until fluffy and well-combined. If you want extra flavor here too, mix in some of that delicious homemade caramel sauce.

Step 9: Assemble Your Cake

Once cooled completely, layer your cakes on a serving plate. Spread caramel sauce between layers before topping with cream cheese frosting. Drizzle additional caramel on top for that stunning finish!

Now you’re ready to slice into this scrumptious Brown Butter Caramel Cake! Enjoy each bite; you deserve it!

Pro Tips for Making Brown Butter Caramel Cake

Creating the perfect brown butter caramel cake is an adventure filled with delicious possibilities! Here are some tips to ensure your baking experience is a delightful success.

• Use room-temperature ingredients: This helps your batter come together smoothly, leading to a light and fluffy cake. Cold eggs and buttermilk can cause the mixture to seize up, making it difficult to achieve that desired texture.

• Don’t skip browning the butter: The nutty aroma and rich flavor of browned butter is what makes this cake truly special. Keep a close eye on it while melting to prevent burning, stirring regularly until it turns golden brown.

• Let the cake cool completely: Allowing your cake to cool fully before frosting ensures that the frosting doesn’t melt off into a gooey mess. It also helps the flavors meld together beautifully.

• Use quality vanilla extract: A good vanilla extract can elevate your cake’s flavor profile significantly. Opt for pure vanilla extract over imitation for that extra touch of richness.

• Make it ahead of time: This cake actually tastes better the next day as the flavors develop even more! If you’re planning for an event, consider baking it a day in advance and storing it properly.

How to Serve Brown Butter Caramel Cake

When it comes to serving your brown butter caramel cake, presentation can make all the difference! With a few simple touches, you can elevate this delectable dessert into a showstopper.

Garnishes

• Sea salt flakes: A sprinkle of sea salt on top adds a sophisticated touch and complements the sweetness of the caramel beautifully.
• Chopped nuts: Toasted pecans or walnuts provide a delightful crunch and enhance the overall flavor experience with their nutty undertones.

Side Dishes

• Fresh berries: Serve alongside some mixed fresh berries like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries. Their tartness balances out the sweetness of the cake perfectly.
• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds a luscious contrast to warm slices of cake, creating an indulgent treat.
• Whipped cream: Light and airy whipped cream on the side offers a wonderful texture contrast and can be flavored with vanilla or cinnamon for extra flair.
• Coffee or tea: A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea pairs wonderfully with this dessert, enhancing its rich flavors while providing a perfect end to any meal.

Enjoy crafting this delightful brown butter caramel cake—it’s sure to become a cherished favorite in your home!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Brown Butter Caramel Cake is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to indulge in its rich flavors throughout the week. You can easily store leftovers or even bake it in advance for special occasions!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cake to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap slices in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container.
• Store at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week for optimal freshness.

Freezing

• To freeze the cake, ensure it’s fully cooled and wrapped tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place the wrapped cake in a freezer-safe container or a resealable freezer bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating

• For best results, let the cake come to room temperature after being refrigerated or thawed.
• If desired, warm individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.
• Enjoy with additional caramel sauce drizzled on top if you like!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making and enjoying this delicious cake.

What makes Brown Butter Caramel Cake so special?

Brown Butter Caramel Cake stands out due to its rich flavor profile that combines nutty brown butter with sweet caramel. This unique pairing creates a decadent treat that is both moist and incredibly satisfying.

Can I make Brown Butter Caramel Cake without buttermilk?

Yes! If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can substitute it with a mixture of regular milk and vinegar or lemon juice. Just use 1 cup of milk and add 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice; let it sit for 5 minutes before using.

How do I ensure my Brown Butter Caramel Cake stays moist?

To keep your cake moist, make sure not to overbake it. Additionally, wrapping it well after cooling and storing it properly will help maintain its moisture levels.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Brown Butter Caramel Cake brings joy to your kitchen and home! Its rich flavors and delightful textures make it a truly special dessert that everyone will adore. Don’t hesitate to try your hand at baking this cake; it’s easier than it seems! Enjoy every slice, and happy baking!