Salted Caramel Cake

The Salted Caramel Cake is the ultimate dessert that combines layers of moist vanilla cake with rich homemade salted caramel and velvety salted caramel buttercream. Perfect for celebrations or a sweet treat at home, this cake is a stunning showstopper that will impress friends and family alike. Its delightful balance of sweetness and saltiness makes it a favorite among dessert lovers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of vanilla, rich caramel, and a hint of salt creates an unforgettable taste experience.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps, you can whip up this impressive cake without any complicated techniques.
• Versatile Occasion Fit: Ideal for birthdays, anniversaries, or just because; this cake suits any celebration.
• Customizable Options: Feel free to add nuts or chocolate for extra texture and flavor!
• Stunning Presentation: Layers of cake topped with silky buttercream make for a beautiful centerpiece.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect Salted Caramel Cake, you need some essential tools. Having the right equipment can make your baking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Cake pans
• Saucepan
• Rubber spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Ensures smooth batter and fluffy buttercream, saving you time and effort.
• Cake pans: Properly shaped pans help achieve even baking and lovely cake layers.
• Saucepan: Essential for making the homemade salted caramel sauce to achieve that perfect consistency.

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 Vanilla 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 Salted Caramel 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, combine granulated sugar and water over medium heat.
2. Allow it to melt without stirring until it turns golden brown.
3. Remove from heat, then carefully add butter and heavy cream while stirring continuously.
4. Add a big pinch of salt, then let cool before using.

Step 2: Make the Vanilla Cake Batter

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In another bowl, beat room-temperature butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
5. Mix in sour cream, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until combined.
6. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients until just mixed.

Step 3: Bake the Cake Layers

1. Divide the batter evenly between prepared cake pans.
2. Bake in preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
3. Allow cakes to cool in pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.

Step 4: Prepare the Salted Caramel Buttercream

1. Beat room-temperature butter until creamy.
2. Gradually add powdered sugar while mixing on low speed until combined.
3. Mix in vanilla extract and enough cooled salted caramel to reach your desired consistency.

Step 5: Assemble the Cake

1. Once cooled, level off any domes on the cake layers using a serrated knife if necessary.
2. Place one layer on a serving plate; spread a layer of salted caramel filling on top.
3. Add the second layer; repeat with more caramel filling if desired.
4. Frost the top and sides with salted caramel buttercream.

Now you have an exquisite Salted Caramel Cake ready to impress everyone at your next gathering! Enjoy every slice!

How to Serve Salted Caramel Cake

Serving Salted Caramel Cake is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with the right accompaniments. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dessert presentation.

Pair with Fresh Fruits

• Berries: Strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries add a fresh acidity that complements the sweetness of the cake.
• Sliced Apples: Tart apple slices offer a crunchy contrast and can be drizzled with additional caramel for extra sweetness.

Add Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic choice that balances the rich flavors of the cake.
• Salted Caramel Ice Cream: For a decadent twist, match the flavors of the cake with this indulgent ice cream.

Serve with Whipped Cream

• Lightly Sweetened Whipped Cream: A dollop on top adds creaminess without overpowering the cake.
• Caramel Drizzle: Top the whipped cream with a drizzle of homemade salted caramel for an extra touch of luxury.

How to Perfect Salted Caramel Cake

Perfecting your Salted Caramel Cake can make all the difference in achieving that bakery-quality taste. Here are some essential tips for success.

• Bold Flavors: Use high-quality vanilla extract to enhance the flavor of your cake and frosting.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that butter, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature for a smoother batter.
• Measure Accurately: Use a kitchen scale to measure ingredients precisely, ensuring consistency in your cake’s texture.
• Cool Completely: Allow each cake layer to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting and sliding.
• Layer Evenly: When stacking layers, use a leveler or knife to ensure each layer is even for proper stacking.

Best Side Dishes for Salted Caramel Cake

Pairing side dishes with Salted Caramel Cake can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some ideal options that complement its rich flavors.

1. Chilled Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the cake.
2. Chocolate Mousse: This rich, creamy dessert creates a luxurious pairing with the salted caramel notes.
3. Coffee or Espresso: The bitterness of coffee enhances the sweetness of the cake and makes for a perfect after-dinner treat.
4. Pecan Pie Bars: These nutty treats provide a crunchy texture contrast while harmonizing with caramel flavors.
5. Lemon Sorbet: The tartness offers a refreshing cleanse after each bite of sweet cake.
6. Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses can provide savory bites that balance out the sweetness effectively.
7. Coconut Macaroons: Chewy and slightly sweet, these cookies pair well without overwhelming your palate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Salted Caramel Cake, it’s essential to be cautious of certain common pitfalls that can affect the final result.

• Incorrect Temperature: Using butter or eggs straight from the refrigerator can lead to a dense cake. Always ensure these ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing.
• Overmixing Batter: Mixing the batter too much can make your cake tough. Mix only until ingredients are combined to maintain a light texture.
• Skipping the Salt: Forgetting to add salt can dull the flavor of your salted caramel. Always include that big pinch of salt for a balanced taste experience.
• Inaccurate Measurements: Not measuring ingredients precisely can throw off the recipe. Invest in a kitchen scale for accuracy, especially with flour and sugar.
• Not Allowing Cake to Cool: Cutting into a warm cake can cause it to crumble. Let your layers cool completely before frosting to achieve a clean finish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Salted Caramel Cake in an airtight container.
• It will keep well for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Salted Caramel Cake

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Salted Caramel Cake

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the slice on an oven-safe dish and heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until warm.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 10-15 seconds at a time until warmed through. Be careful not to overheat as it may dry out.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat, cover with a lid, and warm for about 5 minutes until heated evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Salted Caramel Cake.

Can I use different flavors in my Salted Caramel Cake?

Yes! You can experiment with different extracts like almond or coconut instead of vanilla for unique flavor profiles.

How do I ensure my salted caramel is perfect?

To achieve smooth salted caramel, avoid stirring while cooking and watch closely as it changes color. Remove from heat once it turns amber.

Can I make Salted Caramel Cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the layers and prepare the frosting up to two days in advance. Assemble just before serving for freshness.

What if my buttercream is too thick?

If your salted caramel buttercream is too thick, add a tablespoon of heavy cream at a time until you reach your desired consistency.

How should I serve Salted Caramel Cake?

This cake is delightful on its own but pairs beautifully with fresh fruit or whipped cream for added flair!

Final Thoughts

Salted Caramel Cake is not just delicious; it’s also versatile. With its rich layers and creamy frosting, it’s perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize it by adding nuts or other flavors to make it uniquely yours!