Brown Butter Caramel Cake

If you’re looking for a dessert that will wow your family and friends, then this Brown Butter Caramel Cake is just the ticket! It’s one of those recipes that fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma as it bakes, making everyone eagerly await the first slice. The combination of rich brown butter and gooey caramel takes this cake to another level of deliciousness. Whether it’s a special occasion or just a cozy night in, this cake will surely bring smiles all around.

What truly makes this cake special is its moist texture and deep flavor profile. It’s perfect for celebrations, family gatherings, or even just a treat after a busy week. Trust me, once you make this cake, it will become a beloved favorite in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredibly Flavorful: The brown butter adds a nutty richness that elevates the cake beyond the ordinary.
• Moist and Decadent: This cake boasts an extra moist texture that melts in your mouth, thanks to the buttermilk and caramelly filling.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, even novice bakers can impress their guests!
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday or just a Tuesday evening, this cake fits right in.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Bake it in advance and store it; it tastes even better the next day!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple, wholesome ingredients is half the fun! Each component plays an important role in creating that rich flavor and delightful texture we all crave. Let’s dive into what you’ll need for this delicious 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

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to experiment with different flavors or add-ins to suit your taste.

• Add Some Nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts can add a delightful crunch to your cake.
• Make It Chocolatey: For chocolate lovers, consider adding cocoa powder to the batter for a chocolate version.
• Fruit Twist: Incorporate fresh fruit like apples or pears between layers for added sweetness and moisture.
• Different Frosting: Instead of cream cheese frosting, try using whipped coconut cream for a lighter topping.

How to Make Brown Butter Caramel Cake

Step 1: Brown the Butter

Start by browning your butter. Place 2 cups of unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir frequently until it turns golden brown and smells nutty. This step is crucial as it intensifies the flavor of your cake.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together 2 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder, 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Mixing these dry ingredients ensures they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, combine the browned butter with granulated sugar and brown sugar until smooth. Then add the eggs one at a time along with vanilla extract. Finally, mix in the buttermilk until everything is well incorporated.

Step 4: Combine Wet & Dry Mixes

Gradually add your dry mix into the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined; be careful not to overmix! This helps maintain that lovely moist texture we want in our cake.

Step 5: Bake

Pour the batter into prepared pans and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 36 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Be sure not to skip checking; overbaking can lead to dryness!

Step 6: Prepare Caramel Filling

While the cake cools, make your caramel filling by melting unsalted butter in a saucepan. Add brown sugar and heavy cream while stirring continuously over medium-low heat until smooth. Mix in vanilla extract and salt before letting it cool slightly.

Step 7: Make Frosting

For the frosting, beat cold cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar until fluffy. Once ready, frost your cooled cake layers generously!

Step 8: Assemble & Serve

Layer your cakes with caramel filling between them and top with remaining frosting. Drizzle extra caramel on top for that beautiful finishing touch!

Enjoy every bite of this luscious Brown Butter Caramel Cake! It’s sure to become one of your go-to recipes for any gathering or just because you deserve something sweet today!

Pro Tips for Making Brown Butter Caramel Cake

Baking the perfect Brown Butter Caramel Cake is all about the details, and these tips will help you achieve that deliciously moist and flavorful result!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing eggs and buttermilk to room temperature ensures they blend smoothly into the batter, creating a lighter, fluffier cake.

• Watch your browning: When making brown butter, keep a close eye on it as it can go from beautifully browned to burnt very quickly. The nutty aroma is what you’re aiming for!

• Sift your flour: Sifting not only removes lumps but also aerates the flour, leading to a lighter cake texture.

• Let the cake cool completely: Allowing the cake to cool fully before frosting prevents the frosting from melting off and helps maintain that beautiful presentation.

• Swirl the caramel in: For an impressive look, gently swirl caramel sauce into the frosting rather than mixing it in completely. This adds visual appeal and bursts of flavor with each bite.

How to Serve Brown Butter Caramel Cake

Presenting your Brown Butter Caramel Cake in an enticing way can enhance the overall experience. Here are some delightful ideas to make it shine at your next gathering!

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some chopped pecans or walnuts on top for added texture and a nutty flavor that complements the caramel beautifully.

• Caramel drizzle: A little extra caramel sauce drizzled over the top adds a visually appealing touch and intensifies the caramel flavor.

Side Dishes

• Fresh berries: A side of fresh strawberries or raspberries provides a tart contrast to the sweetness of the cake, balancing out the flavors delightfully.

• Whipped cream: A simple dollop of whipped cream can lighten up each slice, offering a creamy counterpart to the rich cake.

• Coffee or tea: Serving your cake with a warm beverage like coffee or herbal tea creates a cozy pairing that enhances enjoyment during dessert time.

With these serving suggestions, your Brown Butter Caramel Cake will not only taste heavenly but also look stunning on any dessert table! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Brown Butter Caramel Cake is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while making your life easier during busy days.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• If you live in a warm climate, keep it in the refrigerator to maintain freshness for up to a week.

Freezing

• Wrap individual slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap and then foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating

• If you prefer your cake warm, place a slice in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.
• Alternatively, you can reheat it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe:

Can I use regular butter instead of brown butter for the Brown Butter Caramel Cake?

Using regular butter will change the flavor profile of the cake significantly. Brown butter adds a nutty richness that makes this dessert special, so it’s best to stick with it!

How should I store my Brown Butter Caramel Cake?

Store your cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate it for longer freshness. Just make sure it’s covered well!

Can I substitute buttermilk in this recipe?

Yes! You can replace buttermilk with an equal amount of milk mixed with a teaspoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5 minutes before using.

Is there a way to make this cake gluten-free?

Absolutely! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup. This ensures that everyone can enjoy this delicious treat!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Brown Butter Caramel Cake! It’s not just a dessert; it’s an experience filled with rich flavors and comforting sweetness. Whether it’s for a special occasion or just because, this cake is sure to impress everyone around you. Don’t hesitate to share your baking adventures—I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out!