Brown Butter Caramel Cake

If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert that will wow your family and friends, you’ve come to the right place! This Brown Butter Caramel Cake is pure magic. With its rich, nutty flavor from the brown butter and a delightful caramel filling, it’s a treat that feels special yet approachable. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday or simply want something sweet on a busy weeknight, this cake fits perfectly into any occasion.

What makes this recipe even more special is how moist and flavorful the cake is. It’s topped with a creamy brown butter frosting that’s as decadent as it sounds. Trust me, once you take that first bite, you’ll understand why this Brown Butter Caramel Cake has become one of my all-time favorites!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The brown butter adds a delicious depth that elevates the entire cake.
• Moist and Tender: Each slice is incredibly moist, making it hard to resist just one more piece!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore this cake—perfect for gatherings!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the caramel sauce in advance, saving you time on busy days.
• Versatile Design: Whether you want to keep it simple or go all out with decorations, this cake can handle it!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that this recipe uses simple and wholesome ingredients, many of which you might already have in your kitchen. Let’s gather what we need for this delightful 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 recipe is flexible and can be customized to fit your taste preferences! Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped pecans or walnuts for an extra crunch.
• Change Up the Frosting: Try using a chocolate frosting if you’re feeling adventurous!
• Fruit Filling: Swap out caramel for fresh fruit filling like strawberries or raspberries for a refreshing twist.
• Layer It Up: Make it a layer cake by adding extra layers of frosting between each cake layer.

How to Make Brown Butter Caramel Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Brown Butter

Start by melting the unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir frequently until it turns golden brown and develops a nutty aroma. This step is crucial because browning the butter enhances its flavor, giving your cake that irresistible richness.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This mixture helps ensure that your cake rises beautifully and has a light texture.

Step 3: Cream Butters and Sugars

In another bowl, beat together the browned butter with granulated white sugar and brown sugar until fluffy. This process adds air into the batter which helps create a tender crumb in your cake.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then stir in the vanilla extract. This step is important—it helps incorporate moisture into your batter while enhancing flavor.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually mix in half of the dry ingredients followed by buttermilk. Alternate until everything is combined but don’t overmix! A few lumps are okay; they help keep your cake light.

Step 6: Bake Your Cake

Pour the batter into prepared pans and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 36 minutes or until toothpicks come out clean. Keep an eye on them; overbaking can dry out this delicious treat!

Step 7: Make Your Caramel Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt unsalted butter again before adding brown sugar. Stir until melted then slowly whisk in heavy cream. Allow it to bubble gently before taking it off heat—this will give you that velvety caramel texture.

Step 8: Prepare Your Frosting

Using an electric mixer, beat cold cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar while mixing until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 9: Assemble Your Cake

Once cooled completely, slice your cakes horizontally if desired. Spread some caramel sauce between layers before frosting the top generously with your cream cheese frosting. Drizzle additional caramel on top for an extra touch of sweetness!

And there you have it—a rich, indulgent Brown Butter Caramel Cake that’s sure to impress anyone who tastes it! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Brown Butter Caramel Cake

Making the perfect Brown Butter Caramel Cake is all about attention to detail, and I’m here to help you every step of the way!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing your eggs and buttermilk to room temperature ensures a smoother batter and better incorporation of ingredients, leading to a moist cake.
• Brown the butter carefully: Watch your butter closely as it melts; you want it to turn golden brown and nutty, not burnt. This step is crucial for achieving that rich flavor that makes this cake so special.
• Don’t skip the cooling time: Allowing your cake layers to cool completely before frosting will prevent the frosting from melting and ensure a beautifully layered presentation.
• Swirl in the caramel sauce: When adding caramel to your frosting, use a gentle swirling motion rather than mixing it in completely. This creates beautiful visual stripes and adds bursts of caramel flavor in each bite.
• Store properly: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you need longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week. Just remember to bring it back to room temperature before serving for the best taste!

How to Serve Brown Butter Caramel Cake

This Brown Butter Caramel Cake is not only delicious but also visually stunning! Here are some great ideas on how to present and serve this delightful dessert.

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some chopped pecans or walnuts on top for added crunch and richness.
• Caramel drizzle: A generous drizzle of warm caramel sauce over each slice adds an extra sweet touch and enhances the overall presentation.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A light fruit salad with berries, melon, and citrus will balance out the sweetness of the cake, providing a refreshing contrast.
• Vanilla ice cream: Serving slices with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream creates a classic combination that is sure to impress everyone.
• Coffee or tea: Pairing this cake with a cup of coffee or your favorite herbal tea brings warmth and enhances its flavors, making it perfect for gatherings or afternoon tea.
• Whipped coconut cream: For a dairy-free alternative, serve with whipped coconut cream which complements the cake’s richness without overpowering it.

Enjoy baking and sharing your scrumptious Brown Butter Caramel Cake – it’s bound to become a favorite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Brown Butter Caramel Cake is perfect for meal prep! You can make it in advance and store it for special occasions or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth throughout the week. Here’s how to keep it fresh and delicious.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• If you want it to last longer, place it in the refrigerator where it will stay good for up to a week.
• Make sure to let the cake come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

Freezing

• Wrap individual slices of the cake tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing its quality.
• When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.

Reheating

• To reheat a slice of cake, simply place it in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.
• If you prefer a warm slice with a crispy edge, pop it into a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes.
• Always check the center to ensure it’s heated through before enjoying!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delicious cake!

Can I use regular butter instead of brown butter in the Brown Butter Caramel Cake?

Using regular butter will change the flavor profile significantly. Brown butter adds a nutty taste that enhances the overall richness of your cake. For the best results, stick with brown butter!

How do I know when my Brown Butter Caramel Cake is done baking?

Your cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. Keep an eye on it towards the end of baking to avoid overcooking.

Can I substitute buttermilk in this recipe?

Yes, if you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can make your own by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5 minutes before using.

What can I use instead of cream cheese frosting?

If you’re looking for an alternative, consider using whipped coconut cream or a dairy-free cream cheese option. Both can provide a tasty frosting without compromising on flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in baking this Brown Butter Caramel Cake! It’s truly special with its moist texture and rich flavors that caramel lovers will adore. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or treating yourself during the week, this cake is bound to bring smiles all around. Enjoy making it and feel free to share your experiences—I’d love to hear how yours turns out!