Brown Butter Caramel Cake

If you’re looking for a showstopper dessert that’s perfect for any occasion, then this Brown Butter Caramel Cake is just the thing! This cake is not only incredibly moist but also bursting with the rich, nutty flavor of brown butter. It’s filled with gooey caramel sauce and topped with a creamy brown butter cream cheese frosting that makes every bite an absolute treat. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a family gathering, or simply indulging yourself on a cozy night in, this cake will surely impress everyone around your table.

What makes this recipe even more special is how easy it is to whip up. You know I love a recipe that strikes the perfect balance between being fancy and approachable. So grab your apron, and let’s get ready to bake something delightful!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of brown butter and caramel creates a taste that’s hard to resist.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone from kids to adults loves this cake; it’s sure to be a hit with your loved ones!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Bake it ahead of time and store it in the fridge. It tastes even better after a day or two!
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday feast or just because, this cake fits right in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to create this delicious Brown Butter Caramel Cake. Don’t worry; these items are likely already in your pantry or easy to find at the store!

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! Feel free to get creative with these variations that can add your unique touch:

• Change up the frosting: Try using whipped cream instead of cream cheese frosting for a lighter option.
• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch and flavor.
• Go chocolatey: Incorporate cocoa powder into the batter for a rich chocolate version of this cake.
• Mix in fruits: Add some fresh berries or diced apples into the batter for a fruity twist!

How to Make Brown Butter Caramel Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Brown Butter

Start by melting 2 cups of unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until it turns golden brown and smells nutty. This step is crucial as browning the butter will deepen its flavor, making your cake extra special!

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together 2 1/4 cups flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Combining these ingredients first ensures they are evenly distributed throughout your batter.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, buttermilk, and the prepared brown butter. Whisk until smooth. This mixture should be creamy and fragrant—trust me; it will make your kitchen smell heavenly!

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Slowly add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients. Gently stir until just combined; be careful not to overmix! This keeps your cake light and fluffy.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into greased cake pans and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 36 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. The smell wafting through your home will have everyone eagerly anticipating dessert!

Step 6: Prepare Caramel Sauce

In another saucepan over medium heat, melt 9 tablespoons of unsalted butter along with 3/4 cup brown sugar until bubbly. Gradually whisk in heavy cream until smooth. Once combined well, remove from heat and stir in vanilla and salt.

Step 7: Make Frosting

Beat cold cream cheese until smooth before gradually adding powdered sugar. Once combined, slowly mix in cooled brown butter until you have a creamy consistency.

Step 8: Assemble Your Cake

Once cooled completely, slice each cake layer in half horizontally if desired. Layer with caramel sauce between each layer and frost generously with brown butter cream cheese frosting on top.

Enjoy every bite of this delectable Brown Butter Caramel Cake—you’ve earned it!

Pro Tips for Making Brown Butter Caramel Cake

Baking this delightful cake is a breeze when you follow these simple tips!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ensuring your eggs and buttermilk are at room temperature helps create a smooth batter, leading to a lighter, fluffier cake.

• Don’t rush the browning process: Take your time when browning the butter. This step adds depth of flavor and a nutty aroma; rushing can lead to burnt butter instead of that luscious brown hue.

• Measure flour correctly: Spoon and level your flour rather than scooping it directly from the bag. This prevents overpacking, ensuring your cake isn’t dense.

• Cool cakes completely before frosting: Allowing the layers to cool fully prevents the frosting from melting off. A well-cooled cake keeps its structure and looks beautiful when served.

• Make extra caramel sauce: If you’re a caramel lover, consider doubling the caramel sauce recipe! Having extra on hand for drizzling or dipping makes every slice even more irresistible.

How to Serve Brown Butter Caramel Cake

Presenting your Brown Butter Caramel Cake can be as fun as baking it! Here are some ideas to make it truly shine at your next gathering.

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some toasted pecans or walnuts on top for added crunch and flavor contrast.
• Sea salt flakes: A light sprinkle of sea salt enhances the sweetness and adds a gourmet touch.
• Fresh fruit: Add slices of fresh apples or pears for a pop of color and freshness that balances the richness.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly with this warm cake, creating a delightful contrast in texture and flavor.
• Fruit salad: A light, refreshing fruit salad offers a burst of freshness that complements the sweetness of the cake without overwhelming it.
• Coffee or tea: Serve alongside a cup of rich coffee or aromatic tea to balance out the dessert’s sweetness while enhancing its flavors.
• Chocolate mousse: For an indulgent experience, pair with velvety chocolate mousse for those who crave an extra layer of decadence!

Enjoy making this Brown Butter Caramel Cake your own, and savor each delicious bite with friends and family!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Brown Butter Caramel Cake is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time for gatherings or special occasions, and it stores beautifully to maintain its deliciousness.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cake to cool completely before storing.
• Cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the fridge for up to a week.
• If you have leftover frosting, store it separately in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

Freezing

• Wrap slices of cake individually in plastic wrap or foil.
• Place wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.
• For best results, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating

• If desired, reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds until slightly warm.
• Alternatively, warm slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Brown Butter Caramel Cake that might help you out!

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

Using salted butter is fine; however, it may alter the flavor slightly. If you choose to use salted butter, consider reducing the added salt in the recipe to balance out the flavors.

What makes this Brown Butter Caramel Cake so moist?

The combination of brown butter and buttermilk contributes to the moisture content of this cake. Brown butter adds rich flavor while buttermilk keeps it tender and soft.

How do I prevent my cake from sticking to the pan?

To prevent sticking, be sure to grease your cake pans well with cooking spray or butter before adding your batter. You can also line the bottom with parchment paper for extra assurance.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup as a replacement. This will help maintain the texture while making it suitable for those avoiding gluten.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating this delightful Brown Butter Caramel Cake! It’s not just a treat; it’s a celebration of flavors that will impress family and friends alike. Whether it’s for a special occasion or just because, I encourage you to give this recipe a try. Happy baking, and may your kitchen be filled with warmth and sweetness!