Brown Butter Caramel Cake

If you’re looking for a cake that will impress your family and friends, then you need to try this Brown Butter Caramel Cake. This recipe is close to my heart, as it always brings smiles and happy bellies to the table. With its rich brown butter flavor and luscious layers of caramel, this cake is more than just dessert; it’s a celebration! Whether it’s a special occasion or just a cozy evening at home, this cake fits right in.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. You can whip it up for busy weeknights or save it for festive gatherings. Trust me, once you take a bite, you’ll understand why it has become a favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Decadent Flavor: The combination of brown butter and caramel creates a rich taste that’s hard to resist.
• Moist Texture: This cake stays moist and tender thanks to the buttermilk and brown butter.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the sweet caramel surprise inside.
• Stunning Presentation: With its beautiful frosting and caramel swirl, it’s sure to wow your guests.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Bake it in advance, and store it for an easy dessert option when you need one!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! These are simple, wholesome items that you’ll feel good about using. Each one contributes to the delightful flavors in your 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 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! You can easily make adjustments to suit your taste or what you have on hand.

• Add nuts: Sprinkle some chopped pecans or walnuts into the batter for added crunch.
• Chocolate twist: Swirl in some melted chocolate with the caramel for a delicious chocolate-caramel combo.
• Fruit infusion: Add fresh or dried fruit like apples or cranberries into the cake batter for extra flavor.
• Spice it up: Incorporate cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm spice flavor that complements the sweetness.

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 frequently until it turns golden brown and smells nutty. This step is essential because browning the butter enhances its flavor, making your cake truly special.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients helps ensure even distribution of leavening agents so your cake rises beautifully!

Step 3: Cream Together Sugars and Eggs

In another large bowl, combine your granulated sugar, brown sugar, and eggs. Beat them together until fluffy. This process incorporates air into the mixture which will give your cake a lovely texture.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

Add your cooled brown butter and vanilla to the egg-sugar mixture. Then gradually mix in the buttermilk until well combined. This adds moisture and richness to your batter.

Step 5: Mix Dry Ingredients with Wet Ingredients

Gently fold in your dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined. Remember not to overmix; we want our cake light and airy!

Step 6: Bake the Cake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour batter into prepared pans and bake for about 36 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Keep an eye on them—overbaking can lead to dryness!

Step 7: Make Caramel Sauce

While your cake cools, prepare the caramel sauce by melting butter in a saucepan over medium heat again. Stir in brown sugar and heavy cream until smooth—this step creates that delicious filling we all love!

Step 8: Prepare Frosting

Beat cold cream cheese until smooth before gradually adding powdered sugar. Mix until creamy; this will be our decadent frosting!

Step 9: Assemble Your Cake

Once cooled, slice each layer in half if desired and drizzle caramel between layers before frosting generously on top. A swirl of additional caramel on top makes it picture-perfect!

Now you’re ready to serve up slices of this delightful Brown Butter Caramel Cake! Enjoy every bite with those you love!

Pro Tips for Making Brown Butter Caramel Cake

Making this cake is a delightful experience, and with a few pro tips, you can ensure it turns out perfectly every time!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing your eggs and buttermilk to room temperature helps create an even batter, leading to a fluffier cake.

• Watch the brown butter closely: When browning the butter, keep a close eye on it. It can go from perfect to burnt in seconds! Look for a nutty aroma and a golden-brown color.

• Don’t skip the cooling step: Allow the layers to cool completely before frosting. This prevents the frosting from melting and ensures clean, beautiful layers.

• Layer the caramel sauce thoughtfully: Drizzling or swirling the caramel sauce between cake layers adds not only flavor but also moisture. Make sure to use it generously!

• Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add a pinch of sea salt on top of the frosting or mix some espresso powder into the batter for an added depth of flavor.

How to Serve Brown Butter Caramel Cake

Presenting this luscious cake can be just as enjoyable as baking it! Here are some creative ideas to make your serving experience even more delightful.

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some chopped pecans or walnuts on top for added crunch and texture.
• Sea salt flakes: A light sprinkle of flaky sea salt enhances the sweetness of the caramel and adds a gourmet touch.
• Fresh fruit: Serve with slices of fresh apples or pears for a refreshing contrast to the rich cake.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: The creamy texture complements the warm caramel flavors beautifully; serve it alongside a slice for an indulgent treat.
• Whipped cream: Lightly sweetened whipped cream adds airiness that balances out the richness of the cake.
• Fruit salad: A medley of seasonal fruits provides a fresh, light counterpart to this decadent dessert.
• Coffee or tea: A nice cup of coffee or herbal tea pairs perfectly, enhancing your dessert experience while offering a comforting finish.

Enjoy every bite of your Brown Butter Caramel Cake! It’s truly an indulgent dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Brown Butter Caramel Cake is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy it over several days without sacrificing its deliciousness. Here’s how to store it properly to keep it fresh and flavorful!

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• To freeze the cake, first wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then again in aluminum foil.
• Ensure no air is trapped inside to prevent freezer burn.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating

• For a warm slice, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the slice on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave a slice for about 20-30 seconds, but be careful not to overheat.

FAQs

If you have questions about this delightful dessert, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries regarding the Brown Butter Caramel Cake.

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

Yes, you can use salted butter. Just reduce or omit any additional salt in the recipe to balance the flavors.

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

To enhance the brown butter flavor, ensure you cook the butter until it turns a deep golden brown and has a nutty aroma. This process is crucial for achieving that rich taste.

What can I substitute for heavy cream in this recipe?

You can use coconut cream or a plant-based alternative like cashew cream as a substitute for heavy cream if desired.

How should I serve my Brown Butter Caramel Cake?

This decadent cake is perfect on its own or served with fresh fruit or whipped cream for added flavor and texture!

Final Thoughts

I hope you feel inspired to bake this irresistible Brown Butter Caramel Cake! It’s truly a labor of love, packed with moistness and rich flavors that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Enjoy every moment of making it, and don’t hesitate to share your experience. Happy baking!