Brown Butter Caramel Cake

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s not just delicious but feels like a warm hug, then this Brown Butter Caramel Cake is perfect for you! This cake is a total showstopper, boasting layers of moist goodness enriched with the rich flavor of brown butter. It’s filled with decadent caramel sauce and topped off with a fluffy brown butter cream cheese frosting. I can’t tell you how many smiles this cake has brought to my family gatherings and cozy weeknight dinners!

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want something sweet to brighten up your day, this cake fits the bill. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make, so you can whip it up even on busy days!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistibly Moist: The combination of brown butter and buttermilk ensures every slice is tender and moist.
• Decadent Flavor: Rich caramel and nutty brown butter create an unforgettable taste experience that caramel lovers will adore.
• Simple Ingredients: You probably have most of the ingredients in your pantry already, making it convenient to prepare.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday party or a simple family dinner, this cake is sure to impress.
• Make Ahead Friendly: Bake it in advance and store it; the flavors deepen as it sits, making it even more delightful!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients for our Brown Butter Caramel Cake! Each one plays an essential role in creating that rich flavor and moist texture. 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 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 customize it to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Here are a few ideas to switch things up:

• Make it Nutty: Add chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter for added crunch and flavor.
• Add Some Spice: Incorporate cinnamon or nutmeg into the batter for a warm spice touch.
• Go Chocolate: Fold in some cocoa powder for a chocolatey twist on the classic flavor.
• Fruit Infusion: Mix in fresh berries or slices of banana for a fruity layer that pairs beautifully with caramel.

How to Make Brown Butter Caramel Cake

Step 1: Brown the Butter

Start by browning your 2 cups of unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir it frequently until it turns golden brown and smells nutty—this step enhances the flavor immensely! Once browned, remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour, 1 1/2 tsp baking powder, 1/4 tsp baking soda, and 1/2 tsp salt. Mixing these dry ingredients first helps ensure an even distribution when combined with the wet ingredients later.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, combine your cooled browned butter with granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and buttermilk. Whisk until smooth. This mixture will bring moisture and richness to the cake.

Step 4: Combine Wet & Dry Mixtures

Gradually add your dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir until just combined—be careful not to overmix! Overmixing can lead to a dense cake instead of the light texture we want.

Step 5: Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two round cake pans and evenly distribute your batter between them. Bake for about 36 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean from the center. Let them cool completely before removing them from pans.

Step 6: Prepare Caramel Filling

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt together 9 tbsp unsalted butter with 3/4 cup brown sugar. Slowly stir in heavy cream while continuing to cook until thickened—about five minutes should do it! Set aside to cool.

Step 7: Make Frosting

In another bowl, beat cold cream cheese until smooth before gradually adding in powdered sugar. Then mix in some browned butter until fluffy—a delicious complement to our cake!

Step 8: Assemble Your Cake

Once cakes are completely cool, place one layer on your serving plate. Spread caramel sauce on top before placing the second layer on top. Finally, frost with your creamy frosting and drizzle additional caramel on top for that beautiful finish!

Now you have an amazing Brown Butter Caramel Cake ready to be enjoyed by family and friends! Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Brown Butter Caramel Cake

Creating the perfect Brown Butter Caramel Cake is all about attention to detail and a few helpful tricks! Here are some pro tips to ensure your cake turns out beautifully every time.

• Brown the butter carefully: Take your time when browning the butter. This step enhances the nutty flavor that makes this cake so special. Keep an eye on it, as it can go from perfectly browned to burnt in just seconds!
• Use room temperature ingredients: Make sure your eggs and buttermilk are at room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smoother batter and ensures even baking, resulting in a moist cake.
• Don’t skip the cooling time: Allow your layers to cool completely before frosting. If they’re warm, the frosting could melt, leading to a messy presentation. Patience truly pays off with this step!
• Adjust for altitude if needed: If you’re baking at a high altitude, consider reducing the baking powder slightly or increasing the flour by 1-2 tablespoons. This adjustment can help prevent your cake from collapsing.
• Experiment with caramel swirls: When adding caramel sauce to your frosting, swirl it in gently instead of mixing fully. This creates beautiful marbling that not only looks gorgeous but adds bursts of flavor in every bite.

How to Serve Brown Butter Caramel Cake

Serving your Brown Butter Caramel Cake can be as delightful as making it! Whether it’s for a special occasion or a cozy gathering, here are some ideas for presenting this decadent dessert.

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some toasted pecans or walnuts on top for an added crunch and flavor contrast.
• Fresh berries: A few fresh raspberries or blueberries on the side not only add color but also a refreshing tartness that complements the sweetness of the cake.
• Caramel drizzle: A generous drizzle of extra caramel sauce on each slice will make it look irresistible and enhance that delicious caramel flavor.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully with warm slices of cake, creating a comforting combination that’s hard to resist.
• Whipped cream: Lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a fluffy texture and balances the rich flavors of the cake perfectly.
• Coffee: A cup of freshly brewed coffee is an excellent accompaniment, as its bitterness contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the dessert.
• Fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad made with seasonal fruits will cleanse the palate and add a light touch after indulging in this rich cake.

Enjoy every slice of this amazing Brown Butter Caramel Cake – it’s sure to be a hit at any gathering!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Brown Butter Caramel Cake is perfect for meal prep! You can make it in advance and enjoy a delicious dessert throughout the week. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat your cake:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cake to cool completely.
• Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container.
• Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing

• Slice the cake into individual pieces for easy serving.
• Wrap each slice in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Be sure to label the bag with the date.

Reheating

• Remove the desired slice from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
• For a warm treat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat the slice for about 10-12 minutes.
• Alternatively, microwave on medium power for 20-30 seconds until warmed through.

FAQs

Got questions? You’re not alone! Here are some common queries about this delightful recipe.

Can I use salted butter for Brown Butter Caramel Cake?

Yes, you can use salted butter. Just reduce the amount of additional salt in the recipe slightly to balance out the flavors.

What makes Brown Butter Caramel Cake so moist?

The combination of brown butter, buttermilk, and caramel sauce contributes to its moist texture, making every bite a rich experience.

How do I make the caramel sauce for Brown Butter Caramel Cake?

To make caramel sauce, melt unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat, whisk in brown sugar and heavy cream until smooth. Add vanilla and salt before using.

Can I substitute ingredients in Brown Butter Caramel Cake?

Absolutely! You can use dairy-free alternatives for butter and cream cheese if needed. Just ensure they are suitable substitutes for baking.

What can I serve with Brown Butter Caramel Cake?

This cake pairs excellently with fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited as I am to bake this mouthwatering Brown Butter Caramel Cake! It’s truly special with its rich flavors and delightful textures that will impress anyone who tries it. Enjoy making this cake, share it with loved ones, and delight in every bite! Happy baking!