Chocolate Salted Caramel Cake

Chocolate salted caramel cake is a decadent dessert that combines rich chocolate flavor with the perfect balance of sweet caramel and a hint of saltiness. This indulgent treat is sure to impress any chocolate lover and is perfect for special occasions or as a luxurious treat for you.

Chocolate Salted Caramel Cake Recipe

There’s nothing quite as satisfying as the rich combination of chocolate and salted caramel. When these two flavors come together in a luscious cake, it’s a dessert lover’s dream come true. In this article, we will share a detailed chocolate salted caramel cake recipe that will have your taste buds dancing with delight, providing you with a detailed recipe to ensure your baking endeavors are a resounding success.

Salted Caramel Chocolate Cake Ingredients:

You will need the below ingredients for the Chocolate Caramel Salted Cake recipe:

For the Chocolate Cake Layers:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup strong brewed coffee, cooled
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

For the Salted Caramel Sauce:

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cubed
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon sea salt flakes

For the Chocolate Buttercream Frosting:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Sea salt flakes, for garnish

Salted Caramel Chocolate Cake Recipe Instructions:

Below we have given the step-by step instruction on how to make a Chocolate and salted caramel cake.

1. Prepare the Chocolate Cake Layers:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inches round cake pans.
• In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
• Add the eggs, buttermilk, cooled coffee, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Beat on medium speed until well combined and smooth, about 2 minutes.
• Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
• Remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

2. Make the Salted Caramel Sauce:

• In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, heat the granulated sugar over medium heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon or heatproof spatula until it melts and turns amber in color.
• Add the cubed butter to the melted sugar and stir until fully incorporated and smooth.
• Slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring constantly. Be careful as the mixture will bubble up.
• Remove the caramel from heat and stir in the sea salt flakes. Let it cool to room temperature before using.

3. Prepare the Chocolate Buttercream Frosting:

• In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy and smooth.
• Gradually add the powdered sugar and cocoa powder, beating on low speed until combined.
• Pour in the heavy cream and vanilla extract, then beat on medium-high speed until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.

4. Assemble the Cake:

• Place one chocolate cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a layer of salted caramel sauce over the top.
• Top with a generous layer of chocolate buttercream frosting, spreading it evenly over the caramel.
• Repeat with the remaining cake layers, caramel sauce, and frosting.
• Use an offset spatula to smooth the frosting on the top and sides of the cake.
• Drizzle additional salted caramel sauce over the top of the cake and sprinkle with sea salt flakes for garnish.

5. Serve and Enjoy:

• Slice the chocolate salted caramel cake and serve it to your delighted guests, savoring every decadent bite.

Useful Tips for Best Chocolate and Salted Caramel Cake Recipe:

• Avoid over-mixing the batter after adding wet ingredients. Over mixing your batter will cause it to sink in the oven.
• Use dark chocolate cocoa powder. Regular cocoa powder does not give the cake the same rich chocolate flavor. I enjoy using Extra Brute Cacao Barry Cocoa or a similar high-quality brand.
• Preheat your oven for 20-30 minutes before baking the cake layers to ensure that the heat is evenly spread across the room. This guarantees an even rise for your cake.
• Feel free to prepare the salted caramel chocolate cheesecake cake layers ahead of time and freeze them until ready to assemble.
• Frosting and caramel can be prepared ahead of time and stored in an airtight container.

Conclusion

Indulge yourself in the heavenly combination of moist chocolate cake, rich salted caramel, and smooth chocolate ganache. This chocolate salted caramel cake is perfect for birthdays, special occasions, or simply as a decadent treat to satisfy your sweet tooth cravings. Follow the salt caramel chocolate cake recipe and advice provided, experiment with flavors if desired, and get ready to wow your friends and family with this sensational dessert. Enjoy!

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FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):

Can I make the salted caramel sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the salted caramel sauce ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Warm it gently before using.

Can I use store-bought caramel sauce instead of making it from scratch?

While homemade caramel sauce offers the best flavor, you can use store-bought caramel sauce as a time-saving alternative. Look for a high-quality caramel sauce with no added flavors or preservatives.

Can I make the chocolate caramel cake layers in advance and freeze them?

Absolutely! Prepare the salted caramel cake layers in advance and freeze them for up to one month. Wrap each cooled layer tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. When you’re ready to assemble the cake, thaw the layers at room temperature before proceeding.

Can I use a different type of frosting for this salted caramel cake recipe?

Absolutely! While chocolate buttercream frosting complements the flavors of the cake and caramel sauce beautifully, you can use any frosting of your choice. Cream cheese frosting or whipped cream frosting would also pair well with the chocolate and caramel flavors.

Can I omit the sea salt flakes from the caramel sauce?

If you prefer a traditional caramel flavor without the saltiness, you can omit the sea salt flakes from the caramel sauce. However, the salt adds a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the caramel and chocolate.

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter in the salted caramel sauce?

It is best to use unsalted butter in the salted caramel sauce and add the salt separately. This way, you have better control over the saltiness level. If you only have salted butter, reduce or omit the added salt accordingly.

Can I use a different type of chocolate for the ganache?

Absolutely! You can experiment with different types of chocolate according to your preference. Dark chocolate or a combination of dark and milk chocolate will work well.