Brown Butter Caramel Cake

This Brown Butter Caramel Cake is a delightful treat that combines rich flavors and a moist texture, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a gathering, or simply indulging yourself, this cake stands out with its decadent brown butter notes and luscious caramel filling. It’s a must-try for caramel lovers and those seeking an impressive dessert to share.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible flavor: The combination of brown butter and caramel creates a rich, nutty taste that will leave your taste buds wanting more.
• Moist texture: Thanks to the buttermilk and brown butter, every slice offers a soft and moist experience.
• Versatile serving options: Serve it at parties, family gatherings, or as an everyday dessert; it fits any occasion perfectly.
• Easy to follow: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, even novice bakers can create this masterpiece.
• Gorgeous presentation: The caramel swirl on top adds an eye-catching detail that will impress your guests.

Tools and Preparation

To create your delicious Brown Butter Caramel Cake, gather the following essential tools. Having the right equipment will make your baking experience smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9-inch round cake pans
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk or electric mixer
• Rubber spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• 9-inch round cake pans: These provide the perfect size for baking evenly layered cakes.
• Mixing bowls: Having multiple sizes allows you to easily combine ingredients without mess.
• Electric mixer: It saves time and ensures your batter is mixed thoroughly for the best texture.

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Ingredients

This is the best brown butter caramel cake! It’s extra moist with lots of brown butter flavor, filled with caramel sauce, topped with luscious brown butter cream cheese frosting and a caramel swirl. Caramel lovers will absolutely love this decadent 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

How to Make Brown Butter Caramel Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans with butter or non-stick spray.

Step 2: Prepare the Brown Butter

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 cups of unsalted butter. Stir constantly until it turns golden brown and has a nutty aroma. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:
1. All-purpose flour
2. Baking powder
3. Baking soda
4. Salt

Set aside.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, beat together:
1. Granulated sugar
2. Brown sugar
3. Eggs
4. Vanilla
5. Buttermilk
6. Browned butter

Mix until smooth.

Step 5: Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet mixture while mixing until just combined.

Step 6: Bake the Cakes

Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and smooth tops. Bake for about 36 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Prepare Caramel Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt more unsalted butter with brown sugar until dissolved. Slowly add heavy cream while stirring continuously until thickened. Add vanilla and salt; set aside to cool.

Step 8: Make Frosting

In a mixing bowl, beat cold cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar while mixing until well combined.

Step 9: Assemble the Cake

Once cooled, layer one cake on a plate, drizzle with caramel sauce, then spread some frosting on top before adding the second layer of cake. Frost the top and sides of the cake with remaining frosting. Drizzle extra caramel on top before serving.

Enjoy your homemade Brown Butter Caramel Cake!

How to Serve Brown Butter Caramel Cake

Serving brown butter caramel cake is all about enhancing its rich flavors. This cake is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it perfect for gatherings and special occasions.

Pair with Coffee

• A steaming cup of coffee complements the sweetness of the cake and highlights the nuttiness of the brown butter.

Serve with Fresh Fruit

• Fresh berries or sliced apples add a refreshing contrast to the rich caramel flavors, balancing out the sweetness.

Add a Scoop of Ice Cream

• Vanilla or caramel ice cream melts beautifully over warm slices, creating a delightful dessert experience.

Drizzle Extra Caramel Sauce

• A drizzle of homemade caramel sauce on top enhances the flavor and adds an extra layer of indulgence.

Garnish with Whipped Cream

• Light whipped cream adds airiness to each bite, making it feel less heavy and more refreshing.

Top with Nuts

• Chopped pecans or walnuts provide a crunchy texture that complements the moistness of the cake.

How to Perfect Brown Butter Caramel Cake

Perfecting your brown butter caramel cake ensures every bite bursts with flavor. Here are some essential tips to achieve cake perfection:

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure eggs and buttermilk are at room temperature for better mixing and a fluffier texture.

• Brown Your Butter Carefully: Watch closely while browning your butter to avoid burning; it should have a nutty aroma and golden color.

• Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon and level your flour rather than scooping directly from the bag to prevent a dense cake.

• Don’t Overmix Batter: Mix until just combined to retain lightness in your cake; overmixing can lead to a tougher texture.

• Allow Cake to Cool Completely: Letting the cake cool completely before frosting prevents melting and keeps your frosting intact.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality vanilla extract and fresh cream for richer flavors in both the cake and frosting.

Best Side Dishes for Brown Butter Caramel Cake

Pairing side dishes with brown butter caramel cake elevates your dessert experience. Here are some delightful options to consider:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream
   A classic pairing that offers creamy richness, enhancing the flavors of the cake.

2. Fruit Salad
   A mix of seasonal fruits provides brightness and freshness, cutting through the sweetness wonderfully.

3. Chocolate Mousse
   The rich, airy chocolate mousse complements the caramel without overshadowing it, adding depth to your dessert table.

4. Cheesecake Bites
   Mini cheesecake bites introduce a tangy twist that contrasts nicely with sweet caramel flavors.

5. Lemon Sorbet
   The tartness from lemon sorbet refreshes the palate between bites of rich cake, making each piece enjoyable.

6. Pecan Pie Bars
   These bars offer a nutty crunch and sweet filling that pairs well with brown butter notes in your cake.

7. Coffee Cake Muffins
   Soft muffins infused with coffee flavors create a warm pairing, perfect for any gathering.

8. Chai-Spiced Cookies
   Spicy cookies bring warmth and flavor complexity that complements the decadent cake beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can be tricky, especially when making a Brown Butter Caramel Cake. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Not browning the butter properly: Ensure that you cook the butter until it turns a deep amber color for the best flavor. Watch it closely to prevent burning.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to a dense cake. Stir just until combined to keep it light and fluffy.
• Ignoring ingredient temperature: Using room temperature ingredients, like eggs and buttermilk, helps them blend better and contributes to a moist cake.
• Skipping the cooling time: Allow your cake to cool completely before frosting. This prevents the frosting from melting off and ensures a beautiful finish.
• Using improper measuring techniques: Spoon flour into your measuring cup rather than scooping directly from the bag. This avoids packing and results in accurate measurements.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Keep the cake covered with plastic wrap or foil to maintain moisture.

Freezing Brown Butter Caramel Cake

• Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
• Label the bag with the date for easy identification later.

Reheating Brown Butter Caramel Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place slices on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices for about 15-20 seconds on medium power. Check often to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat. Cover with a lid and warm for about 5 minutes, flipping once.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Brown Butter Caramel Cake.

Can I use different types of flour for this Brown Butter Caramel Cake?

Yes! You can experiment with cake flour or gluten-free flour blends, but this may alter the texture slightly.

How do I make my Brown Butter Caramel Cake more caramel-flavored?

You can add more caramel sauce between layers or drizzle extra on top before serving for an intense flavor boost.

What can I substitute for cream cheese in the frosting?

Try using mascarpone cheese or a vegan cream cheese alternative if you prefer a different taste or dietary option.

How long does the Brown Butter Caramel Cake last?

It lasts up to 5 days in the refrigerator when stored properly, or up to 3 months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

This Brown Butter Caramel Cake is not only delicious but also versatile. Its rich flavor profile makes it perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to special celebrations. Feel free to customize it by adding nuts or different flavored frostings!