Brown Butter Caramel Cake

If you’re looking for a dessert that truly wows, then this Brown Butter Caramel Cake is your answer! This cake is not just a treat; it’s an experience. The magic of brown butter adds so much depth and nuttiness to the cake, while the gooey caramel filling makes each bite heavenly. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to indulge on a cozy evening, this cake will make your heart sing.

What makes this recipe even more special is how easy it is to put together. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll find that baking this cake can be a delightful way to spend an afternoon, especially when you share it with family or friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Decadent Flavor: The rich taste of brown butter combined with sweet caramel creates an unforgettable dessert experience.
• Moist Texture: Thanks to the buttermilk and brown butter, every slice is incredibly moist and tender.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday party or a casual weeknight treat, this cake fits right in!
• Easily Make-Ahead: You can bake and frost this cake in advance, making it perfect for busy schedules.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the sweet layers and creamy frosting!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is part of the fun! This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need to create this beautiful Brown Butter Caramel Cake:

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 Filling

• 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

One of the best things about this Brown Butter Caramel Cake is how flexible it can be! Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add Nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts can add a delightful crunch to your cake.
• Make It Chocolatey: Substitute half of the flour with cocoa powder for a chocolate twist!
• Use Different Fillings: Try using chocolate ganache or fruit preserves instead of caramel for a different flavor profile.
• Experiment with Frosting: Swap out cream cheese frosting for whipped coconut cream for a lighter finish.

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). Preparing ahead helps everything go smoothly!

Step 2: Make the Brown Butter

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt your unsalted butter until it turns golden brown. Stir frequently until you see brown bits forming at the bottom. This step brings out that nutty flavor that makes your cake special.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures your dry ingredients are well combined before adding them to the wet mixture.

Step 4: Cream Sugars and Eggs

In a large mixing bowl, combine both sugars with the browned butter until smooth. Add in the eggs one at a time along with vanilla extract. Mixing well here adds air into your batter for fluffiness!

Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients

Gradually add the dry mix into your wet mixture along with buttermilk. Stir until just combined; overmixing can lead to dense cake—nobody wants that!

Step 6: Bake Your Cakes

Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and bake in preheated oven for about 36 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean from the center. Let them cool completely before assembling.

Step 7: Make Caramel Filling

In another saucepan over medium heat, melt unsalted butter with brown sugar until bubbly. Slowly pour in heavy cream while stirring constantly. Cook for another few minutes until thickened slightly.

Step 8: Prepare Frosting

Beat cold cream cheese until fluffy. Gradually add powdered sugar until well blended. This frosting will be creamy and rich—perfect for topping off your cake!

Step 9: Assemble Your Cake

Place one layer of cake on a serving plate. Spread caramel filling generously on top before adding the second layer. Finish off by frosting with cream cheese mixture around the sides and top!

There you have it—a stunning Brown Butter Caramel Cake ready to impress anyone who lays eyes on it! Enjoy each slice as you celebrate life’s sweet moments!

Pro Tips for Making Brown Butter Caramel Cake

Creating the perfect Brown Butter Caramel Cake is easier than you think, especially with these handy tips!

• Use room temperature ingredients: This helps your batter mix more evenly, resulting in a light and fluffy cake. Cold ingredients can create a dense texture that isn’t as enjoyable.

• Don’t rush the browning process: When browning the butter, take your time. A slow and steady approach allows the butter to develop a rich, nutty flavor without burning, which is key to enhancing the overall taste of your cake.

• Measure flour correctly: Spoon and level your flour instead of scooping directly from the bag. This prevents adding too much flour, which can lead to a dry cake.

• Let the cake cool completely: Before frosting, allow your cake layers to cool completely. This ensures that the frosting doesn’t melt off and maintains its beautiful structure when serving.

• Experiment with caramel swirls: Feel free to add more caramel sauce on top or in between layers for extra indulgence. It not only enhances taste but also adds a stunning visual appeal.

How to Serve Brown Butter Caramel Cake

This decadent Brown Butter Caramel Cake deserves an equally delightful presentation. Here are some ideas to elevate your serving experience!

Garnishes

• Sea salt flakes: A sprinkle of sea salt adds a delightful contrast to the sweetness, enhancing the flavor profile beautifully.
• Chopped nuts: Toasted pecans or walnuts offer a crunchy texture that complements the moistness of the cake while adding a nutty flavor.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream provides a classic pairing that balances the richness of the cake perfectly.
• Fresh fruit salad: A light and refreshing fruit salad can cut through the sweetness, offering a nice contrast with its vibrant flavors.
• Whipped coconut cream: For a dairy-free option, whipped coconut cream adds a luscious texture and subtle sweetness that pairs wonderfully with caramel.
• Coffee or tea: Serve with a comforting cup of coffee or tea to enhance flavors and create a warm ambiance for dessert time.

Enjoy every bite of this heavenly Brown Butter Caramel Cake! Whether it’s for a special occasion or just because you deserve something sweet today, this recipe will surely impress all who get to enjoy it.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Brown Butter Caramel Cake is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time, store it, and enjoy it at your leisure. Here are some tips on how to keep it fresh and delicious.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cake to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place it in an airtight container to keep moisture in.
• Store at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing

• Slice the cake into individual pieces for easier thawing.
• Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.
• To freeze the frosting separately, spread it on parchment paper, then freeze until firm. Wrap and store.

Reheating

• Thaw slices of cake overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
• For a warm treat, microwave a slice for about 10-15 seconds.
• If reheating the whole cake, cover with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10-15 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delightful recipe!

Can I use other types of flour for Brown Butter Caramel Cake?

Yes! While all-purpose flour gives the best results, you can experiment with gluten-free flour blends. Just ensure that it’s designed for baking to achieve a similar texture.

How do I make my Brown Butter Caramel Cake even more flavorful?

To enhance the flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or espresso powder to the batter. This will complement the brown butter beautifully!

What can I substitute for buttermilk in this recipe?

If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can easily make your own by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5 minutes before using!

Can I make this Brown Butter Caramel Cake without cream cheese frosting?

Absolutely! You can substitute with whipped coconut cream or a simple vanilla buttercream made without cream cheese if you prefer a different frosting option.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this incredible Brown Butter Caramel Cake! It’s not just a dessert; it’s an experience filled with rich flavors that will surely impress your family and friends. Remember, baking is all about love and creativity—so enjoy every moment! Happy baking!