Brown Butter Caramel Cake

If you’re looking for a dessert that makes every occasion special, let me introduce you to my cherished Brown Butter Caramel Cake. This cake is not just any sweet treat; it’s a delightful combination of rich brown butter flavor and gooey caramel, making it an absolute favorite in our household. Whether it’s a cozy family gathering or a busy weeknight craving, this cake brings smiles and warmth to the table.

What truly makes this cake special is its incredible moisture and depth of flavor. Each slice is beautifully topped with a luscious brown butter cream cheese frosting and a swirl of caramel that elevates the experience. It’s perfect for birthdays, holidays, or just because! Trust me, once you make this cake, it will become a beloved recipe in your collection.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Decadent Flavor: You’ll love the rich taste of brown butter combined with sweet caramel. It’s a match made in dessert heaven!
• Easy Preparation: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, you’ll find making this cake enjoyable and stress-free.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: This cake is sure to impress everyone—from kids to adults—with its irresistible flavor.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can bake this cake ahead of time! It stays moist and delicious for days.
• Versatile Occasion: Perfect for any gathering or just a treat for yourself on a cozy evening at home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Brown Butter Caramel Cake requires simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. You might already have some of them in your pantry! Here’s 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

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

• Add Nuts: Sprinkle in some chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch and flavor.
• Infuse with Spice: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm spice twist.
• Make It Chocolatey: Substitute half of the flour with cocoa powder for a chocolate version of this delightful cake.
• Try Different Toppings: Swap out the caramel for chocolate ganache or fresh berries for a different flavor profile.

How to Make Brown Butter Caramel Cake

Step 1: Make the Brown Butter

Start by browning your butter. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 cups of unsalted butter while stirring frequently. Watch closely as it turns golden brown and develops a nutty aroma—this step adds incredible depth to your cake!

Step 2: Prepare Your Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This helps ensure that everything is well-mixed before combining with the wet ingredients.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar and granulated sugar with the browned butter until creamy. Then beat in the eggs one at a time followed by vanilla extract and buttermilk. This blend creates that moist texture we all love.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add your dry mixture to the wet ingredients. Stir gently until fully combined but be careful not to overmix—this keeps your cake light and fluffy!

Step 5: Bake Your Cake

Pour the batter into prepared pans and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 36 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Allow cooling completely before adding frosting.

Step 6: Make the Caramel Sauce

In another saucepan, melt 9 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Stir in brown sugar and heavy cream until smooth. Let it simmer briefly—this will create an indulgent sauce to fill your layers!

Step 7: Prepare Frosting

Beat cold cream cheese with powdered sugar until smooth. Add cooled browned butter for extra flavor and mix until creamy.

Step 8: Assemble Your Cake

Layer your cake with caramel sauce between each layer then frost generously with cream cheese frosting on top and around the sides. For an extra touch, drizzle more caramel on top!

And there you go! Enjoy every delicious bite of your homemade Brown Butter Caramel Cake!

Pro Tips for Making Brown Butter Caramel Cake

Making the perfect Brown Butter Caramel Cake is all about attention to detail and a little bit of love. Here are some pro tips to ensure your cake turns out wonderfully every time!

• Brown the butter carefully: Watch your butter closely while browning it to avoid burning. The key is to achieve that nutty aroma without letting it turn too dark.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ensure your eggs and buttermilk are at room temperature. This helps them blend smoothly into the batter, resulting in a light and airy cake.

• Don’t skip the cooling time: Allow your cakes to cool completely before frosting. This prevents the frosting from melting and sliding off, giving you a beautifully finished cake.

• Alternate wet and dry ingredients: When mixing the batter, add the flour mixture and buttermilk alternately. This method helps to create a evenly mixed batter without overworking it.

• Test for doneness early: Ovens can vary in temperature, so check your cake a few minutes before the suggested baking time by inserting a toothpick into the center. It should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached.

How to Serve Brown Butter Caramel Cake

Serving your Brown Butter Caramel Cake can be just as fun as baking it! With its rich flavors and beautiful presentation, there are several delightful ways to showcase this dessert.

Garnishes

• Sea salt flakes: A sprinkle of sea salt on top of your caramel frosting enhances the sweetness and adds a gourmet touch.
• Chopped nuts: Toasted pecans or walnuts can add a great crunch and complement the caramel flavor beautifully.
• Fresh fruit: Slices of ripe pears or apples can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the cake.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly with warm slices of cake, creating a delightful contrast in temperatures.
• Whipped cream: Lightly sweetened whipped cream can balance out the richness of the caramel and provide an airy texture.
• Fruit compote: A homemade fruit compote made from berries or stone fruits can add brightness and acidity that cuts through the sweetness.
• Coffee or tea: A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea makes for an excellent beverage pairing, enhancing the flavors of both dessert and drink.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Brown Butter Caramel Cake will surely be a hit at any gathering! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Brown Butter Caramel Cake is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy its rich flavors at your convenience. Whether you’re planning a special occasion or just want to treat yourself throughout the week, this cake stores beautifully.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cake to cool completely before storing.
• Place the cake in an airtight container or wrap it tightly with plastic wrap.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• For best results, keep the caramel sauce separate until serving.

Freezing

• Slice the cake into individual pieces for easier thawing.
• Wrap each slice in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Label the container with the date for reference.

Reheating

• Thaw slices overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature for a few hours.
• For a warm treat, microwave each slice on medium power for about 10-15 seconds.
• Alternatively, reheat slices in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes.

FAQs

If you have questions about making this delicious cake, you’re in the right place!

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

Yes, you can use salted butter; just be mindful of reducing any additional salt in the recipe. The flavor will still be rich and delicious!

How can I make my Brown Butter Caramel Cake even more flavorful?

Consider adding chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the batter for added texture. You could also drizzle extra caramel sauce on top before serving!

What should I do if my cake is too dry?

Ensure that you are measuring your flour correctly and avoid overbaking. If your cake does turn out dry, serve it with whipped cream or extra caramel sauce to add moisture back in!

Can I substitute buttermilk in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can make a simple buttermilk substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes before using.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Brown Butter Caramel Cake brings joy and sweetness into your kitchen! It’s not just a dessert; it’s an experience filled with warmth and delightful flavors. Enjoy making it as much as I love sharing it with you! Don’t forget to share your baking adventures—I’d love to hear how your cake turns out!