Brown Butter Caramel Cake

If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert that will impress everyone at your next gathering, look no further than this Brown Butter Caramel Cake! This cake is not just any ordinary dessert; it’s a celebration of flavor and texture that caramel lovers will adore. The rich, nutty notes of brown butter combined with the sweet, gooey caramel create a perfect harmony that makes every bite a delight. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or simply treating yourself on a busy weeknight, this cake is sure to steal the spotlight.

What makes this recipe even more special is how easy it is to prepare! You don’t need to be a baking expert to whip up this delicious treat. The moist layers, luscious frosting, and decadent caramel sauce come together beautifully, making it perfect for family gatherings or just because you want something sweet. Trust me, once you bake this cake, it will quickly become a favorite in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible flavor: The deep, rich taste of brown butter combined with sweet caramel creates an unforgettable dessert.
• Easy to make: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, anyone can master this cake!
• Perfect for sharing: This recipe yields 16 slices—ideal for parties or family gatherings.
• Make-ahead option: You can prepare the cake in advance and store it, making last-minute entertaining a breeze.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your twist with different flavors or toppings!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create this delightful Brown Butter Caramel Cake! These are staples you might already have in your kitchen.

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 Brown Butter Caramel Cake is wonderfully flexible! Here are some ideas to customize it to your taste:

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture that complements the soft cake.
• Flavor twist: Swap out vanilla extract for almond extract for a unique flavor profile.
• Fruity addition: Layer fresh fruit like sliced bananas or strawberries between the cake layers for a fresh burst of flavor.
• Different frosting: Try using chocolate ganache instead of cream cheese frosting for an indulgent twist!

How to Make Brown Butter Caramel Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Brown Butter

Start by melting your unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir frequently until the butter turns golden brown and gives off a nutty aroma. This step is crucial because browning the butter enhances its flavor and adds depth to the cake.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This helps evenly distribute the leavening agents throughout the flour so your cake rises perfectly.

Step 3: Cream Sugars and Brown Butter

In another bowl, combine granulated sugar, brown sugar, and your prepared brown butter. Beat them together until fluffy. This process incorporates air into the mixture which results in a light and airy cake.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Next, add in the eggs and vanilla extract one at a time while continuing to mix until fully incorporated. This adds richness and flavor to your batter.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Now it’s time to alternate adding your dry mixture with buttermilk into the wet ingredients. Start with dry ingredients, followed by buttermilk, mixing gently after each addition until just combined—don’t overmix!

Step 6: Bake Your Cake Layers

Pour the batter evenly into prepared cake pans and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 36 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Baking times may vary slightly depending on your oven.

Step 7: Make Caramel Sauce

While your cakes cool down, prepare the caramel sauce by melting butter in a saucepan again over medium heat. Stir in brown sugar until dissolved before adding heavy cream. Let it simmer gently until thickened.

Step 8: Frost Your Cake

Once cooled completely, layer your cakes with caramel sauce in between. For frosting, beat cream cheese until smooth then gradually mix in powdered sugar. Frost generously on top of each layer and swirl with remaining caramel sauce.

And there you have it—a stunning Brown Butter Caramel Cake that’s sure to become a beloved part of your baking repertoire! Enjoy every slice as you share this delightful treat with friends and family!

Pro Tips for Making Brown Butter Caramel Cake

Creating the perfect Brown Butter Caramel Cake is all about attention to detail and a few helpful tricks!

• Brown the Butter Just Right: Allow the butter to brown until it has a nutty aroma and a rich, golden color. This step enhances the flavor of your cake, giving it that irresistible brown butter taste.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your eggs and buttermilk are at room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smoother batter that results in a more uniform cake texture.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix your batter just until combined to prevent the cake from becoming dense. Overmixing can lead to too much gluten development, which can make your cake tough rather than light and fluffy.
• Cool Completely Before Frosting: Let your cake layers cool completely on a wire rack before adding frosting. If you frost while warm, the frosting may melt and slide off, ruining that beautiful presentation.
• Swirl the Caramel with Care: When adding the caramel swirl on top, use a toothpick or skewer to create beautiful swirls without overmixing. This will give your cake an eye-catching finish!

How to Serve Brown Butter Caramel Cake

Serving this delightful Brown Butter Caramel Cake can be as fun as baking it! Here are some ideas to make your presentation shine.

Garnishes

• Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle some toasted pecans or walnuts on top for added crunch and flavor contrast.
• Sea Salt Flakes: A light sprinkle of sea salt on top enhances the sweetness of the caramel and adds a gourmet touch.
• Fresh Berries: Add fresh raspberries or strawberries beside each slice for a pop of color and freshness that balances the richness of the cake.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly with this decadent dessert, providing a cool contrast to the warm caramel flavors.
• Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad adds brightness to your dessert table and complements the sweetness of the cake with its natural tartness.
• Coffee or Espresso: Serve alongside a cup of strong coffee or espresso to enhance those deep caramel flavors while providing a comforting end to any meal.
• Whipped Coconut Cream: For a lighter touch, serve each slice with a dollop of whipped coconut cream. It offers a luscious yet non-dairy alternative that complements the cake beautifully.

Enjoy baking and sharing this delightful Brown Butter Caramel Cake—it’s sure to become a favorite among family and friends!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Brown Butter Caramel Cake is not only a showstopper but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time for special occasions or to satisfy your sweet cravings throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, refrigerate the cake for up to a week.
• Make sure to cover any exposed layers with plastic wrap to prevent them from drying out.

Freezing

• To freeze, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• When ready to enjoy, simply thaw the slices in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating

• To reheat a slice, microwave it on medium power in 10-15 second intervals until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.
• Avoid overheating, as this could dry out the cake.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making this delicious cake!

Can I replace buttermilk in the Brown Butter Caramel Cake recipe?

Yes! If you don’t have buttermilk, you can create a substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes before using.

What makes the Brown Butter Caramel Cake so moist?

The combination of brown butter and buttermilk contributes to the cake’s moist texture. Brown butter adds richness and flavor while buttermilk helps keep it tender.

How do I know when the Brown Butter Caramel Cake is done baking?

You can check if your cake is done by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, your cake is ready!

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

While all-purpose flour works best, you can experiment with gluten-free flour blends or whole wheat flour. Just note that texture and flavor may vary slightly.

How should I serve my Brown Butter Caramel Cake?

This cake is delightful on its own or served with fresh fruit or whipped cream. It’s perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or simply as a sweet treat after dinner!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited about this Brown Butter Caramel Cake as I am! Its rich flavors and moist texture make it a true delight that’s sure to impress. Whether it’s for a special occasion or just because you deserve something sweet, I encourage you to give this recipe a try. Enjoy every bite and happy baking!