This recipe combines a moist and flavorful cake with a rich caramel sauce for an irresistible treat.
Ingredients:
- For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- For the Caramel Sauce:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Make the Cake:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in buttermilk and vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Divide batter evenly between the prepared pans.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before inverting them onto wire racks to cool completely.
- Make the Caramel Sauce:
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine sugar and water.
- Cook, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture turns a golden brown color.
- Remove from heat and carefully stir in heavy cream. Be cautious as the mixture will bubble vigorously.
- Return to low heat and simmer for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Stir in butter and salt.
- Let the sauce cool slightly before using.
- Assemble the Cake:
- Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate.
- Drizzle generously with the caramel sauce.
- Top with the second layer of cake and drizzle with more caramel sauce.
- Decorate with additional caramel sauce, whipped cream, or chocolate shavings, if desired.
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer flavor, use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar in the cake batter.
- Add chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, to the cake batter.
- Top the cake with salted caramel ice cream for a decadent treat.
- To make a caramel frosting, combine softened butter with powdered sugar and gradually add cooled caramel sauce until you reach the desired consistency.
Enjoy your delicious homemade Caramel Cake!