Brown Butter Caramel Cake

If you’re looking for a dessert that is as comforting as a warm hug, then you’ve stumbled upon the right recipe! This Brown Butter Caramel Cake is my absolute favorite. It’s not just any cake; it’s a luscious, moist masterpiece filled with sweet caramel and topped with a creamy brown butter frosting. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to indulge on a busy weeknight, this cake will surely impress everyone at the table.

What makes this cake extra special is the rich flavor of brown butter. It adds depth and warmth that elevates the cake to another level. Plus, who can resist a swirly topping of caramel? Trust me, once you take a bite, you’ll understand why this cake has such a cherished spot in my recipe collection.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredibly Flavorful: The combination of brown butter and caramel creates a taste that’s simply irresistible.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday party or an everyday treat, this cake fits right in.
• Moist and Delicious: Every slice is packed with moisture and flavor, making it hard to resist!
• Fun to Make: With simple steps and ingredients, baking this cake is an enjoyable experience.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone—from kids to adults—will love this delightful dessert.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create this delicious Brown Butter Caramel Cake! You probably have many of these in your kitchen already. Here’s what you’ll need:

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 Brown Butter Caramel Cake is quite flexible! Here are some fun variations to make it your own:

• Add Nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts can add a lovely crunch and extra flavor.
• Fruit Twist: Incorporate fresh bananas or apples for a fruity twist.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate on top for those who love chocolate even more!
• Spice it Up: Add cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm spice flavor that pairs beautifully with caramel.

How to Make Brown Butter Caramel Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Brown Butter

To start off, melt the unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir it continuously until it turns golden brown and smells nutty. This step is crucial because browning the butter enhances its flavor dramatically. Set it aside to cool slightly while you combine your dry ingredients.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients first ensures they are evenly distributed throughout the batter. It helps your cake rise beautifully!

Step 3: Make the Batter

In another bowl, combine both sugars with the browned butter until well mixed. Add in your eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then stir in the vanilla and buttermilk until just combined. Now gently fold in your dry mixture until no streaks remain—remember not to overmix!

Step 4: Bake Your Cake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour your batter into greased cake pans and bake for about 36 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean from the center. Baking times can vary based on your oven, so keep an eye on it!

Step 5: Prepare Caramel Sauce

While your cakes are cooling, make the caramel sauce by melting unsalted butter in another saucepan. Stir in brown sugar and let it boil gently before adding heavy cream. Remove from heat when smooth and add vanilla extract and salt.

Step 6: Frosting Time!

For frosting, whip cold cream cheese until smooth before gradually adding powdered sugar. Mix until fluffy and then fold in some of that delicious browned butter for extra richness.

Step 7: Assemble Your Cake

Once cooled completely, place one layer of cake on your serving plate. Drizzle some caramel sauce over it before adding another layer. Top with frosting and finish off with more caramel drizzle on top for that beautiful presentation.

Now you’re ready to enjoy every sweet bite of this incredible Brown Butter Caramel Cake!

Pro Tips for Making Brown Butter Caramel Cake

Creating the perfect Brown Butter Caramel Cake can be a delightful experience with just a few helpful tips!

• Use fresh ingredients: Ensuring your eggs and buttermilk are at room temperature helps them incorporate better into the batter, creating a smoother texture and enhancing moisture.
• Brown the butter carefully: Keep an eye on the butter as it browns to prevent burning. The nutty aroma is what you’re aiming for, which adds depth of flavor to your cake.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Mix just until combined to avoid a dense cake. Overmixing can lead to developing too much gluten, making the cake chewy instead of tender.
• Let the cake cool before frosting: Allowing the layers to cool completely ensures that the frosting doesn’t melt off, resulting in a beautifully frosted cake that holds its shape.
• Make extra caramel sauce: Drizzling additional caramel sauce on top of the cake not only enhances its appearance but also amplifies the flavor, making it a treat for caramel lovers!

How to Serve Brown Butter Caramel Cake

Serving Brown Butter Caramel Cake can be as creative as your heart desires! Here are some ideas to make your presentation truly scrumptious.

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: Sprinkling some toasted pecans or walnuts on top adds a lovely crunch and complements the caramel flavors beautifully.
• Sea salt flakes: A light sprinkle of sea salt not only looks gorgeous but also enhances the sweetness of the caramel, providing a delightful contrast.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits can balance out the richness of the cake, offering a refreshing contrast that cleanses the palate.
• Vanilla ice cream: Creamy vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully with warm slices of cake, adding an extra layer of decadence that’s hard to resist.
• Coffee or tea: Serving your cake alongside a cup of freshly brewed coffee or herbal tea makes for a cozy dessert experience that’s perfect for gatherings or an afternoon treat.

Enjoy sharing this indulgent Brown Butter Caramel Cake with friends and family—it’s sure to become a favorite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Brown Butter Caramel Cake is perfect for meal prep or special occasions, and it stores beautifully! With just a few simple steps, you can keep this cake fresh for days.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cake to cool completely before storing.
• Cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing instead.

Freezing

• Slice the cooled cake into individual servings.
• Wrap each slice in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator when ready to enjoy.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.
• Alternatively, warm slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes.
• Serve warm with extra caramel sauce if desired!

FAQs

Got questions? We’ve got answers! Here are some common inquiries about making your own Brown Butter Caramel Cake.

Can I make this Brown Butter Caramel Cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the cake a day or two in advance. Just store it as mentioned above, and frost it closer to serving time for optimal freshness.

What makes this cake extra moist?

The combination of brown butter and buttermilk gives this cake its rich moisture and flavor. The brown butter adds depth while keeping each bite tender and delicious!

Can I substitute any ingredients in the Brown Butter Caramel Cake?

Yes! If you need a dairy-free option, consider using plant-based butter and milk. You can also swap out heavy cream with coconut cream for a different twist!

How do I know when my cake is done baking?

To check if your Brown Butter Caramel Cake is done, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached, it’s ready!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find as much joy in making this Brown Butter Caramel Cake as I do! It’s not only delicious but also brings a touch of warmth and comfort to any gathering. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging yourself, this cake is sure to impress. Happy baking, and I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out!