Brown Butter Caramel Cake

If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert that’s perfect for any occasion, then you’ve come to the right place! This Brown Butter Caramel Cake is a true gem in my recipe collection. It’s moist, rich, and filled with all the warm flavors of brown butter and caramel. Whether it’s a cozy family gathering or a special celebration, this cake will surely impress your loved ones.

What makes this cake special is its delightful layers of flavor and texture. From the nutty aroma of brown butter to the ooey-gooey caramel sauce, every bite is pure bliss. Trust me—once you set out to make this cake, it will quickly become your go-to dessert!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, baking this cake is a breeze!
• Decadent Flavor: The combination of brown butter and caramel creates an unforgettable taste that will have everyone asking for seconds.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday party or a casual weeknight treat, this cake fits right in.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare parts of the cake in advance, making it easier to serve when you’re short on time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that the ingredients for this Brown Butter Caramel Cake are simple yet wholesome. They come together beautifully to create a dessert that’s truly remarkable.

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

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily switch things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Add Nuts: Stir in some chopped pecans or walnuts into the batter for added crunch.
• Use Different Flavors: Swap out vanilla for almond extract in the frosting for an exciting twist.
• Layer It Up: Make this into a layered cake by adding more frosting between layers or using different fillings like fruit preserves.
• Make Cupcakes: Turn this recipe into cupcakes for easy serving at parties!

How to Make Brown Butter Caramel Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Brown Butter

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

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures even distribution of leavening agents throughout your batter.

Step 3: Cream Butters and Sugars

In another bowl, combine your browned butter with granulated sugar and brown sugar. Beat until light and fluffy; this process incorporates air into your batter which helps give your cake that perfect rise!

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in eggs one at a time along with vanilla extract until well combined. The eggs add moisture and help bind everything together.

Step 5: Combine Wet Ingredients

Now mix in buttermilk gradually until fully incorporated. The buttermilk adds tenderness to your cake—don’t skip it!

Step 6: Bake

Pour your batter into prepared pans and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 36 minutes. Keep an eye on it! A toothpick inserted should come out clean when done.

Step 7: Make Caramel Sauce

While the cake cools, prepare your caramel sauce by melting unsalted butter with brown sugar over medium heat. Add heavy cream slowly while stirring until smooth; then mix in vanilla and salt. Let it cool slightly before using.

Step 8: Frosting Time!

For the frosting, beat cold cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar while mixing until fluffy. Spread generously over cooled cake layers along with caramel drizzle on top!

And there you have it—a dreamy Brown Butter Caramel Cake that’s sure to steal hearts! Enjoy every slice!

Pro Tips for Making Brown Butter Caramel Cake

Making the perfect Brown Butter Caramel Cake is all about attention to detail and a few helpful tips to ensure your creation turns out fabulously.

• Brown the Butter Carefully: Take your time when browning the butter. This process enhances the nutty flavor and aroma, making your cake irresistible. Stir continuously until it reaches a golden brown color, then remove it from heat to prevent burning.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your eggs and buttermilk are at room temperature before mixing. This helps them combine more easily into the batter, resulting in a softer and fluffier cake.

• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mixing too much can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until combined to keep your cake light and airy while still incorporating all ingredients evenly.

• Check for Doneness with a Toothpick: Insert a toothpick in the center of the cake; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s done! This ensures you won’t end up with an overbaked or underbaked cake.

• Cool Completely Before Frosting: Allow your cake layers to cool completely on wire racks before frosting. This prevents the frosting from melting and gives you cleaner, prettier slices.

How to Serve Brown Butter Caramel Cake

Presenting your Brown Butter Caramel Cake beautifully can make it even more delightful for guests or family. Here are some ideas on how to serve this decadent treat!

Garnishes

• Chopped Nuts: A sprinkle of toasted pecans or walnuts adds crunch and complements the caramel flavor beautifully.
• Whipped Cream: A dollop of homemade whipped cream on each slice adds a light, fluffy contrast to the dense cake.
• Chocolate Shavings: Adding chocolate shavings on top can introduce an elegant touch and enhance visual appeal.

Side Dishes

• Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits like berries, apples, and citrus can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the cake.
• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside a slice of warm cake creates a delightful combination that balances flavors perfectly.
• Coffee or Tea: Serving your Brown Butter Caramel Cake with a hot cup of coffee or tea makes for an inviting dessert experience, enhancing its comforting qualities.
• Cheese Platter: Include some mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese for an intriguing flavor pairing that complements the sweetness of the cake.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll not only master the art of baking this delicious Brown Butter Caramel Cake but also impress everyone at your next gathering! Enjoy baking and savoring every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Brown Butter Caramel Cake is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and enjoy it at your leisure, whether for a special occasion or just a sweet treat throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cake to cool completely before storing.
• Cover the cake with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container.
• Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• For best flavor, let the cake sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.

Freezing

• Slice the cake into individual pieces for easier thawing.
• Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• Store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• To defrost, remove from the freezer and let sit at room temperature for a few hours.

Reheating

• If you prefer warm cake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place slices on a baking sheet and cover loosely with foil.
• Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave individual slices for about 15-20 seconds, but be careful not to overheat.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delicious Brown Butter Caramel Cake:

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted in the Brown Butter Caramel Cake?

Yes, you can use salted butter. However, it may alter the overall flavor slightly. If using salted butter, consider reducing the added salt in the recipe.

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

To keep your cake moist, make sure not to overmix the batter and avoid overbaking. Additionally, using room-temperature ingredients helps create a tender crumb.

Can I substitute buttermilk in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can use regular milk or a non-dairy milk alternative mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice as a buttermilk substitute.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy creating this delightful Brown Butter Caramel Cake as much as I do! It’s a wonderful treat that brings warmth and sweetness to any gathering. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging yourself, this cake is sure to impress. Happy baking, and I can’t wait for you to try it!