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This gooey coffee caramel cake combines rich coffee flavor with decadent caramel for a dessert that satisfies both sweet tooth cravings and caffeine appreciation. The moist cake layer gets smothered in homemade caramel sauce, creating an irresistible texture that keeps everyone coming back for more.
I first made this cake for a book club meeting where we were discussing a novel set in a coffee shop. The cake disappeared faster than any dessert I've ever served, and now it's requested for nearly every gathering I host.
Ingredients
- All purpose flour: provides the perfect structure without being too heavy
- Granulated sugar: balances the bitter notes from the coffee
- Brewed coffee: infuses the cake with authentic flavor use freshly brewed for best results
- Buttermilk: creates tenderness and adds a subtle tang that complements the sweet caramel
- Brown sugar: gives the caramel sauce deep molasses undertones choose dark brown for more intensity
- Heavy cream: creates silky richness in the caramel sauce look for full fat versions
- Vanilla extract: enhances both the cake and caramel always use pure not imitation
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare Your Environment:
- Start by creating an organized workspace. Measure all ingredients before beginning and bring refrigerated items to room temperature. This simple prep work makes the entire process smoother and more enjoyable.
- Create The Cake Batter:
- Begin by whisking your dry ingredients thoroughly to prevent lumps and ensure even leavening. When creaming butter and eggs, beat until the mixture becomes noticeably lighter in color and fluffier in texture about 3 minutes. Add coffee and buttermilk gradually to prevent curdling. The batter will seem slightly looser than standard cake batter.
- Bake To Perfection:
- Pour batter into your prepared pan ensuring it spreads evenly into corners. The cake needs 25 30 minutes but start checking at 22 minutes since ovens vary. Look for slightly pulled edges and a springy center. Allow the initial cooling in the pan to set the structure before transferring to a rack.
- Craft The Caramel Sauce:
- Maintain constant stirring during this process to prevent crystallization and burning. The caramel will transform from grainy to smooth as the sugar dissolves. Watch for the moment it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. Adding vanilla and salt at the end preserves their flavors and enhances the complexity.
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The brewed coffee is my secret weapon in this recipe. I discovered that using freshly ground beans produces a noticeably more aromatic cake than using instant coffee. My family now recognizes the scent of this cake baking and magically appears in the kitchen within minutes.
Serving Suggestions
This cake reaches its peak deliciousness when served slightly warm with the caramel sauce drizzled just moments before serving. For an elevated experience, pair with a scoop of coffee ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream spiked with a hint of espresso powder. The temperature contrast between warm cake and cold topping creates a sensory delight that elevates the entire dessert experience.
Storage Tips
The unfrosted cake stays fresh at room temperature in an airtight container for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week, though the texture may become slightly denser. The caramel sauce should be stored separately in the refrigerator and gently reheated before serving. To breathe new life into leftover cake, warm individual slices for 15 seconds in the microwave before adding fresh caramel.
Make It Your Own
This versatile recipe welcomes adaptations to suit your taste preferences. For an extra coffee punch, add a tablespoon of instant espresso powder to the dry ingredients. Chocolate lovers can fold in half a cup of chocolate chips to the batter. For a boozy twist, replace two tablespoons of the buttermilk with coffee liqueur or dark rum. The caramel sauce can be enhanced with sea salt for a salted caramel variation that counterbalances the sweetness beautifully.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do I ensure the cake is moist?
Use ingredients like buttermilk and brewed coffee in the batter, which add moisture and flavor. Avoid overbaking by checking for doneness with a toothpick after 25 minutes.
- → Can I substitute buttermilk?
Yes, you can substitute buttermilk by mixing ½ cup of milk with ½ tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
- → How do I make the caramel sauce thicker?
Simmer the caramel sauce a little longer while stirring constantly. This will thicken the sauce as water evaporates and sugar caramelizes.
- → What is the best way to serve this cake?
Serve the cake slightly warm with a drizzle of the caramel sauce and coffee glaze. Pair with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
- → Can the caramel sauce be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the caramel sauce in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Reheat gently before serving.