Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake
why make this recipe
Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake is not just a treat; it’s an experience. The rich flavors of coffee combined with the sweetness of caramel create a delightful dessert that will make your taste buds dance. This cake is perfect for coffee lovers and is sure to impress your friends and family at gatherings. The gooey caramel topping adds a luscious layer that makes each bite unforgettable. It’s a great recipe to whip up for a special occasion or just to satisfy your sweet cravings.
how to make Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup brewed coffee, cooled
- ½ cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 2 tablespoons brewed coffee
- 1 tablespoon powdered sugar
Directions:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven & Prepare the Cake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
Step 2: Make the Cake Batter
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In a separate large bowl, beat together the softened butter and egg until light and fluffy. Add the brewed coffee, buttermilk, and vanilla extract, and mix well. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until smooth.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
Pour the cake batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool for 10 minutes in the pan, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 4: Prepare the Caramel Sauce
While the cake is cooling, make the caramel sauce. In a saucepan, combine the brown sugar, butter, and heavy cream. Stir constantly over medium heat until the mixture comes to a simmer. Let it simmer for about 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat, stir in the vanilla extract and salt, and set aside.
how to serve Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake
Once the cake has cooled completely, drizzle the warm caramel sauce over the top. You can serve it as is or add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for an extra special treat. This cake is perfect for coffee breaks, desserts after meals, or any time you crave something sweet.
how to store Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week. To enjoy the cake warm again, simply reheat it in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.
tips to make Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake
- Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for the best texture.
- Use freshly brewed coffee for a more robust flavor in the cake.
- Be careful not to overmix the batter; mix until just combined for a light cake.
- Allow the caramel sauce to cool slightly before pouring it over the cake to create a thicker layer.
variation
You can add chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, to the cake batter for added crunch. For a different flavor profile, try using flavored coffee or adding a splash of almond extract to the cake mix.
FAQs
Q: Can I use decaffeinated coffee?
A: Yes, you can use decaffeinated coffee for a milder flavor without the caffeine.
Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can bake the cake a day in advance and store it in an airtight container. Just add the caramel sauce right before serving.
Q: What should I do if my caramel sauce is too thin?
A: If your caramel sauce is too thin, let it simmer for a few extra minutes to thicken it up. Just be sure to stir constantly to prevent burning.