Caramel Cake with Rich Brown Sugar Frosting Recipe

If you have a soft spot for comforting desserts with deep, buttery flavor, you must try this Caramel Cake with Rich Brown Sugar Frosting Recipe. This cake is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, layering tender, moist cake with a luscious caramel frosting that’s velvety and packed with warm brown sugar goodness. Whether for a special occasion or simply to brighten your afternoon, this recipe wraps nostalgia and indulgence into one unforgettable bite that you’ll want to make again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward, essential ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role—from the fluffy texture of the cake to the silky smooth caramel frosting that defines this Caramel Cake with Rich Brown Sugar Frosting Recipe.

• All-purpose flour: Provides the perfect base for a tender, moist crumb without overpowering the flavor.
• Baking powder: Essential for giving the cake a light and airy rise.
• Salt: A pinch enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
• Unsalted butter (for cake and frosting): Adds rich creaminess and depth to both the cake and the frosting.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens and helps create a light texture in the cake.
• Brown sugar: The star-studded ingredient in the frosting that delivers that deep caramel flavor.
• Eggs: Bind everything together and contribute to the delicate crumb.
• Vanilla extract: Brings warmth and highlights the caramel notes beautifully.
• Buttermilk: Adds moisture and a slight tang, balancing the sweetness perfectly.
• Heavy cream: Enriches the frosting’s texture, making it irresistibly smooth.
• Powdered sugar: Creates that fluffy, sweet frosting consistency without grittiness.

How to Make Caramel Cake with Rich Brown Sugar Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pans and Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans so your cakes bake evenly and release easily once done. This simple prep ensures the perfect shape and texture from the start.

Step 2: Mix Your Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Sifting is key here—it lightens up the flour and mixes everything thoroughly so your cake batter combines perfectly without lumps.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale—this usually takes about 3 to 5 minutes. This process traps air, which gives your cake that lovely lift and tender texture.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Next, beat the eggs in one at a time, making sure each one is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract to infuse the batter with warm, fragrant sweetness that complements the caramel elements ahead.

Step 5: Combine Flour Mixture and Buttermilk

Alternate adding the dry flour mixture and buttermilk to the butter mixture in three parts, always starting and ending with the flour. Mix just until combined to avoid overworking the batter, which helps keep your cake delightfully tender.

Step 6: Bake the Cake Layers

Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared pans, smoothing the tops for an even bake. Place them in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks so they can cool completely, which is essential for frosting.

Step 7: Make the Rich Brown Sugar Frosting

While your cakes cool, it’s time to create that iconic rich brown sugar frosting. Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat, then stir in packed brown sugar and bring to a boil, stirring constantly. Once boiling, add heavy cream and vanilla extract, then let it simmer for five minutes until it thickens just slightly, creating that luscious caramel base.

Step 8: Finish the Frosting

Remove the pan from heat and let the caramel mixture cool for about 10 minutes to avoid melting your powdered sugar. Gradually whisk in powdered sugar and a pinch of salt until the frosting is smooth and creamy. This frosting delivers the perfect balance of sweet and buttery with just a hint of salt to make it irresistible.

Step 9: Assemble the Cake

Now for the rewarding part. Spread a generous layer of caramel frosting between the two cooled cake layers to create that beautiful flavor contrast. Then frost the top and sides completely with the remaining frosting, covering every inch with that golden, glossy finish.

Step 10: Let It Set Before Serving

Allow the cake to sit for about 30 minutes before slicing to let the frosting firm up just enough for clean cuts while keeping it soft and luscious. Then your Caramel Cake with Rich Brown Sugar Frosting Recipe is ready to wow everyone!

How to Serve Caramel Cake with Rich Brown Sugar Frosting Recipe

Garnishes

A little garnish can elevate the visual appeal and add texture contrast. Consider sprinkling chopped toasted pecans or walnuts around the edges or on top, or even a light dusting of sea salt to amplify the caramel sweetness. Fresh berries like raspberries or sliced apples also brighten each bite while adding color.

Side Dishes

This rich dessert pairs fantastically with simple accompaniments like a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of lightly whipped cream to balance its dense sweetness. A hot cup of coffee or spiced chai tea alongside really deepens the cozy, comforting experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Get creative by cutting the cake into elegant mini squares for a party platter or layering smaller slices in dessert cups with whipped cream and caramel drizzle for a fancy yet approachable treat. You could even serve slices warm with a spoonful of caramel sauce and crunchy sea salt flakes for an irresistible modern twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This cake stays moist and delicious for several days if stored in an airtight container at room temperature. If your kitchen is warm, refrigeration is best to keep the rich brown sugar frosting set, though bringing the cake back to room temperature before serving enhances the flavor and texture.

Freezing

You can freeze this cake either frosted or unfrosted. Wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then bring to room temperature before frosting or serving so you don’t lose that signature moist crumb.

Reheating

If you want to revive slices after storing in the fridge, warm them gently in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds. This softens the frosting and makes each bite melt-in-your-mouth again. Avoid overheating to keep the frosting just right.

FAQs

Can I substitute regular sugar for brown sugar in the frosting?

The brown sugar is crucial for that rich caramel flavor and moist texture in the frosting. Using regular sugar will result in a sweeter but less complex taste. For the best Caramel Cake with Rich Brown Sugar Frosting Recipe, brown sugar is highly recommended.

How do I know when the cake is fully baked?

The classic toothpick test works wonders here—insert a toothpick into the center of the cake and pull it out. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, the cake is done. Bake times can vary slightly by oven, so keep an eye near the end.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Absolutely! Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup. Just make sure your baking powder and other ingredients are gluten-free too. This way, you can enjoy the full magic of this Caramel Cake with Rich Brown Sugar Frosting Recipe without gluten concerns.

Is it possible to use salted butter?

Using unsalted butter is best because it allows you to control the saltiness. If you only have salted butter, reduce or omit the added pinch of salt in the recipe, especially in the frosting, to prevent it from becoming too salty.

Can I double this recipe for a larger party?

You can definitely double the ingredients to make a larger cake or multiple cakes. Just make sure your baking pans can accommodate the quantity, and keep a close eye on baking times—they may vary slightly with more batter.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you give this Caramel Cake with Rich Brown Sugar Frosting Recipe a try because it’s one of those nostalgic, soul-warming desserts that never fails to impress. Once you’ve mastered the rich, buttery frosting and fluffy cake layers, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe time and again. Baking this cake is like sharing a little piece of joy with everyone lucky enough to get a slice.

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