Brown Butter Caramel Cake

If you’re looking for a cake that will make your heart sing, you’ve come to the right place! This Brown Butter Caramel Cake is simply dreamy. With its moist texture and rich brown butter flavor, it’s like a warm hug on a plate. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this cake shines at any occasion. It’s a delightful way to treat yourself and your loved ones.

What makes this recipe really special is the luscious caramel filling and the creamy brown butter frosting that swirls atop each slice. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve made this cake for birthdays, holidays, or just because—it never fails to impress and satisfy those sweet cravings!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Decadent Flavor: The combination of brown butter and caramel creates an irresistible taste that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
• Easy Preparation: With simple steps and ingredients, baking this cake is as fun as eating it!
• Perfect for Sharing: This recipe yields 16 slices, making it ideal for gatherings with friends and family.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the caramel and frosting in advance, saving time on the day you plan to serve it.
• Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike will adore the rich flavors—this cake is sure to become a cherished tradition!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple, wholesome ingredients will have you on your way to baking this delightful Brown Butter Caramel Cake in no time.

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

• 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

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Here are some fun ways to put your spin on this Brown Butter Caramel Cake:

• Add Nuts: Fold in chopped pecans or walnuts for an extra crunch.
• Change the Filling: Try using chocolate ganache or fruit preserves instead of caramel for a different flavor profile.
• Make Cupcakes: Transform this recipe into cupcakes for individual servings topped with frosting.
• Top with Fresh Fruit: Fresh berries or banana slices can add a lovely contrast to the sweetness of the cake.

How to Make Brown Butter Caramel Cake

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients. Having everything ready makes baking so much easier. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), and grease two 9-inch round cake pans. Greasing them well will ensure that your cakes come out perfectly!

Step 2: Brown the Butter

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt your unsalted butter until it turns golden brown and smells nutty. This step is crucial because browning the butter intensifies its flavor. Be sure to stir frequently to prevent burning!

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients first ensures they are evenly distributed throughout your batter.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix the browned butter with both sugars until smooth. Add in eggs one at a time along with vanilla and buttermilk. Mixing these wet ingredients thoroughly helps create that rich moisture we love in cakes.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Slowly add your dry mixture into the wet mixture while stirring gently until just combined. Don’t overmix! Gently folding keeps our cake light and fluffy.

Step 6: Bake

Pour your batter evenly into prepared pans and bake for about 36 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean from the center. The smell wafting through your kitchen will be absolutely heavenly!

Step 7: Prepare Caramel Sauce

While the cakes cool, make your caramel sauce by melting butter in a saucepan before adding brown sugar and cream. Stir until everything is combined smoothly.

Step 8: Make Frosting

It’s time to whip up that delicious frosting! Beat cold cream cheese until creamy before gradually adding powdered sugar. Then mix in melted brown butter for full flavor!

Step 9: Assemble Your Cake

Once cooled completely, slice each cake layer in half horizontally if desired for more layers. Spread caramel between layers before frosting generously with your creamy topping.

Enjoy every slice of this incredible Brown Butter Caramel Cake! It’s truly something special that you’ll want to share with everyone you know!

Pro Tips for Making Brown Butter Caramel Cake

Baking a perfect Brown Butter Caramel Cake is all about the details, so here are some tips to help you achieve that deliciously moist and flavorful cake.

• Brown the butter properly: Take your time to brown the butter until it reaches a deep golden color. This enhances the nutty flavor and brings out the best in your cake.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ensure your eggs and buttermilk are at room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smoother batter and results in a lighter, fluffier cake.

• Don’t skip the buttermilk: The acidity of buttermilk is crucial. It interacts with baking soda and powder, making your cake rise beautifully while adding moisture and flavor.

• Let it cool completely: Before frosting, allow your cake layers to cool completely. A warm cake can melt frosting, leading to a messy presentation.

• Swirl the caramel delicately: When adding caramel on top of the frosting, use a gentle swirling motion to create beautiful patterns without overmixing.

How to Serve Brown Butter Caramel Cake

Serving up this stunning Brown Butter Caramel Cake is just as important as baking it! Here are some fun ideas to present this delightful dessert.

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle with finely chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch and flavor.
• Caramel drizzle: Add extra caramel sauce on top for a luxurious finish that will catch everyone’s eye.
• Fresh fruit: A few slices of seasonal fruit like strawberries or raspberries can provide a fresh contrast to the rich sweetness of the cake.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly with the caramel flavors, offering a creamy balance that complements every bite.
• Fruit salad: A light fruit salad can cleanse the palate after indulging in this rich dessert, enhancing the overall dining experience.
• Coffee or tea: Serving with a warm cup of coffee or tea brings out the flavors of brown butter and caramel beautifully, making for an inviting dessert experience.
• Chocolate mousse: For those who love chocolate, serving alongside a light chocolate mousse creates an indulgent pairing that satisfies both chocolate and caramel cravings.

Now you’re ready to impress your friends and family with this stunning Brown Butter Caramel Cake! Enjoy every slice!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Brown Butter Caramel Cake is perfect for meal prep! You can prepare it ahead of time for special occasions or simply to enjoy a slice whenever you crave something sweet.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cake to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing

• Wrap the entire cake or individual slices securely in plastic wrap.
• Place wrapped cake in a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator when ready to enjoy.

Reheating

• For best results, let the cake sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.
• If you prefer it warm, microwave a slice on low power for about 15-20 seconds until just warmed through.

FAQs

If you have questions about making this delicious cake, you’re in the right place!

Can I make Brown Butter Caramel Cake without buttermilk?

Yes! If you don’t have buttermilk, you can substitute it with regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes before using.

How long does Brown Butter Caramel Cake last?

When stored properly, this cake will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 5 days and can be frozen for up to 3 months.

What can I use instead of cream cheese in the frosting?

For a non-dairy alternative, you can use a vegan cream cheese or whipped coconut cream mixed with powdered sugar. This will give you a similar texture without using animal-derived products.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this delightful Brown Butter Caramel Cake! It’s truly a special treat that combines rich flavors and textures that everyone will love. Don’t hesitate to share your baking adventures—I’m excited for you to try this recipe and savor every bite!