Brown Butter Caramel Cake

If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert that will make everyone at your table swoon, look no further than this Brown Butter Caramel Cake. This cake is not just any ordinary cake; it’s a delightful masterpiece with layers of rich caramel flavor and a moist texture that feels like a warm hug. Perfect for family gatherings, birthday celebrations, or even just a cozy night in, this cake brings joy to every occasion. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll understand why this recipe has earned a special spot in my heart!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredible Flavor: The combination of brown butter and caramel creates a rich taste that is simply irresistible.
• Moist and Tender: Thanks to the buttermilk and brown butter, each slice melts in your mouth.
• Family Favorite: This cake appeals to both kids and adults alike—who doesn’t love caramel?
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can bake this cake in advance and freeze it, making it perfect for busy days.
• Impressive Presentation: With its luscious frosting and caramel swirl, this cake looks as good as it tastes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering ingredients should be a joy, not a chore! For this Brown Butter Caramel Cake, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Let’s take a look at 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

One of the best parts about baking is how flexible recipes can be! Here are some fun variations you can try with this Brown Butter Caramel Cake:

• Add Nuts: Incorporate chopped pecans or walnuts into the batter for extra crunch.
• Flavor Twist: Swap the vanilla for almond extract for a unique flavor profile.
• Fruit Add-Ins: Mix in some chopped apples or pears for a fruity surprise.
• Different Frosting: Try using chocolate ganache instead of cream cheese frosting for a different twist.

How to Make Brown Butter Caramel Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Brown Butter

Start by melting the unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Keep an eye on it as it cooks; you’ll want to stir frequently until it turns golden brown. This step is crucial because browning the butter adds that deep nutty flavor we all love.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients ensures that they are well combined and helps create an even texture in your cake.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the browned butter with granulated sugar and brown sugar. Beat in the eggs one at a time until smooth. Add the vanilla extract and buttermilk next. This mixture will create that moist texture we’re after!

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add your dry mixture to your wet mixture while gently folding until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—this keeps your cake light and fluffy!

Step 5: Bake Your Cake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the batter into prepared cake pans and bake for about 36 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The smell wafting through your kitchen will be heavenly!

Step 6: Make Caramel Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt together unsalted butter and brown sugar until dissolved. Gradually stir in heavy cream until well blended. Remove from heat and mix in vanilla extract and salt for flavor.

Step 7: Prepare the Frosting

In another bowl, beat cold cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and mix until fluffy. This creamy frosting complements our cake beautifully!

Step 8: Assemble Your Cake

Once cooled, layer your cakes with caramel sauce between them. Frost generously with cream cheese frosting on top and around the sides of the cake. Finish with an artistic swirl of caramel on top.

And there you have it! A beautiful Brown Butter Caramel Cake that’s sure to impress anyone lucky enough to get a slice! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Brown Butter Caramel Cake

When it comes to baking the perfect Brown Butter Caramel Cake, a few tips can make all the difference in achieving that rich, buttery flavor and moist texture!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing your eggs and buttermilk to room temperature helps them incorporate better into the batter, resulting in a smoother consistency and a more even bake.

• Brown the butter carefully: When browning the butter, watch closely for that nutty aroma and golden color. This is where the magic happens! Overcooked butter can turn bitter.

• Don’t skip the cooling time: Allow your cakes to cool completely before frosting. This prevents the cream cheese frosting from melting off and ensures every slice looks picture-perfect.

• Make extra caramel sauce: If you’re a caramel lover, doubling up on the caramel sauce is a great way to ensure you have enough for drizzling and dipping!

• Store properly: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate or freeze slices individually to maintain freshness.

How to Serve Brown Butter Caramel Cake

Serving your Brown Butter Caramel Cake can be just as delightful as baking it! Here are some ideas to help you present this show-stopping dessert beautifully.

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: Toasted pecans or walnuts add a lovely crunch and complement the caramel flavors perfectly.
• Sea salt flakes: A sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top enhances the sweetness of the cake while adding a gourmet touch.
• Fresh fruit: Slices of apple or pear not only look appealing but also provide a refreshing contrast to the rich cake.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: The creamy texture of vanilla ice cream balances out the richness of the cake and provides a delightful contrast in temperature.
• Coffee or espresso: A warm cup of coffee or espresso pairs wonderfully with dessert, enhancing its flavors and providing a comforting finish to your meal.
• Whipped cream: Lightly sweetened whipped cream adds an airy touch that complements the dense cake beautifully.
• Fruit salad: A light fruit salad can cleanse the palate between bites of this rich dessert, allowing you to enjoy each flavor even more.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Brown Butter Caramel Cake will not only be delicious but also beautifully presented! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Brown Butter Caramel Cake is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy its delightful flavors over several days. Whether you’re planning for a special occasion or just want to have a sweet treat ready at home, this cake stores beautifully.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cake to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap each slice in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container.
• Store the wrapped slices in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, ensure the cake is fully cooled and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place the wrapped cake in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating

• For a warm slice, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the slice on a baking sheet and cover it with foil.
• Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.

FAQs

Have questions? You’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries about making this delicious cake.

Can I make Brown Butter Caramel Cake without buttermilk?

Yes! If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, 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 minutes before using.

How do I achieve the best brown butter flavor in my cake?

To get that rich brown butter flavor, cook your butter slowly over medium heat until it turns golden brown and gives off a nutty aroma. Be sure to stir frequently to prevent burning!

Can Brown Butter Caramel Cake be made gluten-free?

Absolutely! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup. Just be mindful of other ingredients that may contain gluten.

Final Thoughts

This Brown Butter Caramel Cake is truly special, bringing together moist layers infused with rich flavors that will charm anyone who takes a bite. I hope you enjoy making this decadent dessert as much as I do! It’s perfect for sharing with friends and family or savoring all by yourself. Happy baking, and don’t forget to let me know how yours turns out!