As I stood in my kitchen, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee mingling with sweet caramel wafted around me, I couldn’t help but smile at the magic about to unfold. This Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake is not just any dessert; it’s a celebration of life’s special moments, crafted with love and a pinch of nostalgia. With impossibly moist layers that embody the rich depth of espresso and a silky homemade caramel sauce drenching each tier, it’s a showstopper worthy of any occasion. This vegetarian delight is both time-efficient for busy home chefs and utterly indulgent, making it a sure hit amongst family and friends. Have you ever tried a cake that brings everyone together with a single bite? Let’s create delicious memories that linger long after the last slice is gone!
Why is this Cake a Must-Try?
Indulgent, Rich Flavor: Each bite delivers a delightful fusion of bold espresso and silky caramel that dances on your palate.
Moist Layers: The incredibly gooey texture keeps this cake from being just another sweet treat, adding a luxurious feel to every slice.
Easy to Make: Despite its impressive appearance, the straightforward steps mean even novice bakers can craft this beauty.
Crowd-Pleasing Option: Perfect for birthdays and celebrations, this cake is sure to impress guests and be the talk of the table.
Versatile Variants: Customize with almond extract or serve with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch. You can also enjoy it beside a cup of coffee or alongside my Peppermint Kiss Cookies for a festive touch!
Coffee Caramel Cake Ingredients
• Get ready to create a decadent delight!
For the Cake:
- All-purpose flour – Provides structure and a tender crumb; it’s best to avoid cake flour or bread flour for this recipe.
- Granulated sugar – Sweetens the cake base and helps retain moisture for that gooey texture.
- Brown sugar – Adds moisture and a hint of rich molasses flavor.
- Baking powder – Acts as a leavening agent to give the cake its lovely rise.
- Baking soda – Enhances leavening and balances the acidity in the batter.
- Salt – A touch of salt enhances the wonderful flavor throughout the cake.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder – Contributes depth to the flavor while adding a dark color.
- Unsalted butter – Adds richness and control over salt content; ensure it’s softened for easy creaming.
- Eggs – Provide structure, moisture, and act as a binding agent—make sure they’re at room temperature.
- Whole milk – Adds moisture and richness; also best used at room temperature.
- Strong brewed coffee – Infuses the cake with coffee flavor; freshly brewed is preferred for depth.
- Vanilla extract – Enhances sweetness and aroma, making the cake even more delightful.
For the Coffee Soak:
- Espresso – Adds moisture and an intensified flavor depth; perfect for achieving that gooey cake texture.
For the Caramel Sauce:
- Heavy cream – Creates a silky and creamy texture, making the caramel irresistible.
- Sea salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavor of the caramel.
For the Buttercream Frosting:
- Powdered sugar – Ensures a smooth frosting texture for the buttercream; essential for that perfect finish.
- Unsalted butter – Adds richness to the frosting and ensures you can control the saltiness.
Gather these ingredients to make your very own Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake, a dessert that’s more than just a cake—it’s a heartfelt creation perfect for any moment worth celebrating!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake
Step 1: Preparation
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms, grease three 8-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper. Dust the sides with flour, ensuring a smooth release once baked. This will ensure that your Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake layers come out beautifully from the pans.
Step 2: Creaming Butter
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter with granulated and brown sugars using an electric mixer on medium speed. Continue mixing for about 3-4 minutes, or until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial for building air into your batter, resulting in a tender and moist cake.
Step 3: Adding Eggs
Next, incorporate the eggs into your butter mixture, adding them one at a time. After each addition, mix well and scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is thoroughly combined. This process will create a rich, uniform batter, contributing to the overall texture of the Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake.
Step 4: Mixing Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder. This helps to evenly distribute the leaveners and ensures that your dry ingredients are well mixed. Sifting the dry ingredients can help eliminate lumps and provides a lighter cake.
Step 5: Combining Wet Ingredients
In a measuring cup, mix the whole milk, cooled strong brewed coffee, and vanilla extract. Whisk until combined. This coffee mixture will infuse deep flavors into your cake, enhancing the overall coffee profile. Having the wet ingredients measured out helps streamline the process in the next steps.
Step 6: Batter Formation
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the creamed butter and sugar, alternating with the milk and coffee mixture. Start and end with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense cake. You want a smooth, thick batter with a rich coffee aroma.
Step 7: Baking
Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Keep an eye on them—the cakes should be springy to the touch. After baking, let the layers cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
Step 8: Caramel Sauce Preparation
To make the caramel sauce, melt granulated sugar in a medium saucepan over medium heat without stirring. Cook until the sugar melts and turns deep amber, about 5-7 minutes. Once it’s caramelized, carefully whisk in butter, followed by heavy cream, and reduce to low heat, stirring until smooth. This luscious sauce will be a delightful drizzle over your cake.
Step 9: Buttercream Preparation
In a mixing bowl, beat softened unsalted butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Continue mixing on medium speed for about 3-4 minutes, until light and fluffy. This smooth buttercream will perfectly complement the Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake layers.
Step 10: Layer Assembly
Take your first cooled cake layer and brush it generously with espresso to enhance moisture and flavor. Spread a layer of the creamy buttercream on top, then drizzle with homemade caramel sauce. Place the second cake layer on top and repeat the process. Finish with the third layer and brush it with the remaining espresso soak for extra gooeyness.
Step 11: Final Frosting
Apply a thin crumb coat of buttercream around the sides and top of the cake to catch any loose crumbs. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to set. After chilling, remove the cake and apply a final, thicker layer of buttercream. Drizzle the remaining caramel on top for a stunning finish. Chill until ready to serve your delicious Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake.
What to Serve with Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake
As you prepare to dive into this rich, delectable dessert, consider these delightful accompaniments that will enhance your dining experience.
- Whipped Cream: A light and airy addition that contrasts beautifully with the dense cake, enhancing each decadent bite.
- Fresh Berries: Strawberries or raspberries add a juicy, tangy freshness that perfectly balances the sweetness of the caramel.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy coldness of vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully, creating a luscious melt-in-your-mouth moment with the warm cake.
- Espresso: A strong cup of espresso serves as a perfect counterpoint, enhancing the coffee flavor while energizing your palate.
- Chocolate Shavings: Simple yet elegant, adding a sprinkle of dark chocolate shavings on top of the buttercream elevates presentation and flavor.
- Caramel Sauce Drizzle: For the ultimate indulgence, serve extra caramel sauce on the side to drizzle as guests please, ensuring a gooey experience with every slice.
- Nuts: Chopped toasted walnuts or pecans provide a delightful crunch, contrasting the soft textures and enhancing the overall flavor experience.
- Mint Leaves: A sprig of fresh mint adds a pop of color and a refreshing fragrance, cleansing the palate between bites.
- Sparkling Water: A bubbly drink to cleanse the palate, sparkling water pairs well with rich desserts like this coffee caramel cake.
- Gouda Cheese: For a savory twist, goat cheese or mild gouda cuts through the sweetness, making an adventurous pairing choice.
How to Store and Freeze Coffee Caramel Cake
Fridge: Store the assembled Coffee Caramel Cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Bring it to room temperature for about 2 hours before serving to enhance the flavors.
Freezer (Unfrosted Layers): If you want to make the cake in advance, wrap each unfrosted layer tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before frosting.
Reheating: If you enjoy warm cake, gently warm individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. This will soften the buttercream, making each bite feel freshly made!
Slice Savors: If you have leftovers, slice and store pieces in an airtight container to maintain the gooey texture and rich flavor for up to 3 days.
Variations & Substitutions for Coffee Caramel Cake
Feel free to get creative and personalize your Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake with these delightful tweaks!
- Dairy-Free: Replace butter with coconut oil and use almond or oat milk instead of whole milk for a vegan-friendly version.
- Gluten-Free: Swap out all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring your cake stays just as delicious and moist without the gluten.
- Nutty Twist: Incorporate finely chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter for an added crunch and a delightful nutty flavor throughout.
- Vanilla Almond: Substitute half of the vanilla extract with almond extract to introduce a beautifully fragrant depth that pairs splendidly with coffee.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cinnamon or a sprinkle of cardamom to the batter for a warm, spiced flavor that has guests asking for your secret recipe.
- Caramel Swirls: Instead of drizzling caramel on top, fold some into the batter for a swirled effect that delivers a gooey surprise in every slice.
- Chocolate Lovers: Enhance the joyous chocolate flavor by adding mini chocolate chips to the batter or topping the cake with shavings for extra indulgence.
- Layered Delight: Consider switching up the fillings by adding a layer of whipped cream or a fresh fruit compote like raspberries or cherries for a fruity contrast alongside your caramel.
By customizing your cake in these ways, you’re sure to create a memorable dessert experience that your family and friends will adore! And if you’re in the mood for more delicious treats, why not also try my Mocha Cake Fudge or the rich Sea Salt Caramel Brownies for a delectable pairing?
Make Ahead Options
These Gooey Coffee Caramel Cakes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cake layers up to 3 days in advance; once cooled, wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate to maintain their moisture. The caramel sauce can also be made ahead—it will stay fresh for up to one week in the refrigerator, just rewarm gently before drizzling. For the buttercream, make it up to 24 hours early; store it in an airtight container in the fridge and re-whip lightly before use. When ready to assemble, simply soak the cake layers with espresso, frost with buttercream, drizzle with caramel, and enjoy effortless, delicious results that are just as delightful as fresh!
Expert Tips for Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients, especially eggs and milk, are at room temperature. This helps achieve a smoother batter and better cake texture.
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Avoid Overbaking: Keep a close eye on your cake layers; they should come out of the oven while still slightly moist. Overbaking can lead to a dry cake instead of the desired gooey texture.
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Clean Slicing: For the best presentation, use a hot, dry knife to slice through the layers. This technique prevents the buttercream from sticking to the knife, ensuring clean cuts.
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Coffee Soak Tips: Don’t skip the coffee soak! It’s essential for achieving that signature gooeyness. Brush each layer thoroughly for maximum flavor and moisture.
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Caramel Consistency: If your caramel thickens too much, gently reheat it to reach the desired drizzling consistency before pouring it over the cake.
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Topping Ideas: Enhance the flavor of your coffee caramel cake by garnishing it with chocolate shavings or a sprinkle of sea salt atop the caramel drizzle for added contrast.
Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake Recipe FAQs
What type of coffee should I use in the cake?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, use freshly brewed strong coffee or espresso. The richness of fresh coffee enhances the overall taste of the cake, making each bite a delightful experience. If you’re sensitive to caffeine, decaf coffee works wonderfully too!
How should I store my Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake?
The assembled cake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just be sure to cover it well to keep it from drying out. Before serving, allow it to come to room temperature for about 2 hours—this really enhances the flavors!
Can I freeze the cake?
Yes, you can absolutely freeze the unfrosted layers! Wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before frosting. This method helps retain moisture, ensuring your cake stays gooey!
What should I do if my caramel sauce hardens?
If you find your caramel sauce has thickened too much, don’t fret! Gently reheat it on low heat in a saucepan, stirring until it returns to a smooth and drizzling consistency. This extra step will ensure your caramel perfectly complements your cake without any clumps.
Can I make this cake without eggs for a vegan option?
Very! You can replace the eggs with flaxseed meal or chia seeds. Use 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal or chia seeds mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg—let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes gelatinous. This substitution retains the moisture and helps bind the cake without compromising its delicious flavor.
Irresistibly Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake for Sweet Moments
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease three 8-inch round cake pans and line with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, beat softened unsalted butter with granulated and brown sugars until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time to the butter mixture, mixing well after each addition.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder.
- Mix together whole milk, cooled coffee, and vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the creamed mixture, alternating with the milk and coffee mixture.
- Divide the batter among the prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes.
- Prepare the caramel by melting granulated sugar without stirring for 5-7 minutes and then adding butter and cream.
- For buttercream, beat softened butter, add powdered sugar, heavy cream, vanilla, and salt, then mix until fluffy.
- Brush each cake layer with espresso, frost with buttercream, and drizzle with caramel sauce.
- Apply a final layer of buttercream and drizzle more caramel on top before chilling.
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