Brown Butter Caramel Cake

This Brown Butter Caramel Cake is a delightful dessert that brings together rich flavors and a moist texture. Perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or any sweet occasion, this cake will impress your guests with its unique taste and beautiful presentation. The combination of brown butter and caramel creates an indulgent experience that every dessert lover craves.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Decadent Flavor: The deep, nutty flavor of brown butter enhances the sweetness of the caramel, making every bite heavenly.
• Moist Texture: This cake stays moist and tender thanks to the buttermilk and the generous amount of butter used in the recipe.
• Versatile Occasion Fit: Ideal for celebrations, gatherings, or just a cozy night in—this cake suits any occasion.
• Showstopper Presentation: Topped with luscious cream cheese frosting and a caramel swirl, it’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
• Easy to Follow: With clear steps and common ingredients, baking this cake is straightforward even for beginners.

Tools and Preparation

To create this amazing Brown Butter Caramel Cake, you’ll need some basic kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes the baking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Electric mixer
• Baking pans (round)
• Rubber spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Makes creaming butter and sugar effortless, ensuring a light texture in your cake.
• Baking pans (round): Provides the perfect shape for layering your cake and helps achieve even baking.

Ingredients

To prepare this delightful Brown Butter Caramel Cake, gather the following ingredients:

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

How to Make Brown Butter Caramel Cake

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients on your countertop. This ensures you have everything ready before you start mixing.

Step 2: Brown the Butter

In a saucepan over medium heat:
1. Melt 2 cups of unsalted butter until it begins to foam.
2. Stir frequently until it turns golden brown with a nutty aroma.
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl:
1. Combine all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
2. Whisk together until evenly mixed.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugars

In another large bowl:
1. Use an electric mixer to beat cooled brown butter with granulated sugar and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
3. Stir in vanilla extract.

Step 5: Combine Wet Ingredients

Gradually add buttermilk to the wet mixture while mixing until fully combined.

Step 6: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Slowly add dry ingredients into the wet mixture:
1. Mix until just combined; be careful not to overmix.

Step 7: Bake the Cake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C):
1. Grease your round baking pans.
2. Divide batter evenly between pans.
3. Bake for about 36 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
4. Let cool completely on wire racks.

Step 8: Prepare Caramel Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat:
1. Melt unsalted butter with brown sugar until smooth.
2. Slowly stir in heavy cream; bring to a simmer while stirring constantly for about 5 minutes.
3. Remove from heat; mix in vanilla extract and salt.

Step 9: Make Frosting

In a large bowl:
1. Beat cold cream cheese until smooth using an electric mixer.
2. Gradually add powdered sugar; mix until creamy.

Step 10: Assemble Your Cake

Once the cakes are completely cool:
1. Place one layer on a serving plate; pour some caramel sauce on top.
2. Add frosting over caramel; repeat with remaining layers.
3. Swirl extra caramel sauce over the top for decoration.

Now you have an incredible Brown Butter Caramel Cake ready to serve! Enjoy every delicious slice!

How to Serve Brown Butter Caramel Cake

Brown Butter Caramel Cake is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

With Fresh Berries

• Serve slices of the cake with a side of fresh berries like strawberries or raspberries for a burst of freshness and color.

Drizzled with Extra Caramel Sauce

• Enhance the caramel flavor by drizzling additional homemade caramel sauce over each slice before serving.

Accompanied by Whipped Cream

• Top each slice with a dollop of whipped cream to add a light, airy contrast to the rich cake.

Paired with Ice Cream

• A scoop of vanilla or salted caramel ice cream complements the warm cake beautifully, making for a decadent treat.

Garnished with Nuts

• Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top for added crunch and flavor. Lightly toast the nuts for enhanced aroma.

As a Layered Dessert

• For an elegant presentation, cut the cake into layers and assemble it with layers of whipped cream and berries in between.

How to Perfect Brown Butter Caramel Cake

To achieve the ultimate Brown Butter Caramel Cake, consider these essential tips for perfecting your baking technique.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your eggs and buttermilk are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Be Mindful of Browning Butter: Cook the butter until it turns golden brown but does not burn. This step is key for rich flavor.
• Sift Dry Ingredients: Sifting the flour, baking powder, and salt helps incorporate air, resulting in a lighter cake texture.
• Do Not Overmix: Mix just until combined when adding wet ingredients to dry. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake.
• Check Cake Doneness: Use a toothpick inserted in the center to check if it comes out clean. This ensures your cake is perfectly baked without being dry.
• Cool Completely Before Frosting: Let the cake cool completely before applying frosting. This prevents melting and ensures even coverage.

Best Side Dishes for Brown Butter Caramel Cake

Pairing side dishes with your Brown Butter Caramel Cake can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic choice that adds creaminess and balances the rich flavors of the cake.
2. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits can lighten up the meal while providing a sweet contrast.
3. Chocolate Mousse: Rich and airy, chocolate mousse pairs well, offering an indulgent double dessert experience.
4. Pecan Pie Bars: These bars echo nutty flavors found in the cake while providing a chewy texture contrast.
5. Lemon Sorbet: The tartness of lemon sorbet cuts through sweetness, offering a palate-cleansing finish.
6. Espresso or Coffee: A cup of strong coffee enhances flavors and offers a delightful combination with dessert.
7. Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses balances sweetness and provides savory notes alongside dessert.
8. Chai Tea: Warm chai tea adds spice that complements the brown butter flavor beautifully while providing warmth on cooler days.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When baking a Brown Butter Caramel Cake, small errors can lead to big disappointments. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.

• Skipping the browning process: Not browning the butter can result in a dull flavor. Take the time to watch it turn golden and nutty.
• Incorrect measurements: Using too much or too little flour or sugar can change the cake’s texture. Always spoon and level your dry ingredients accurately.
• Using cold ingredients: Adding cold eggs or buttermilk can hinder proper mixing. Make sure everything is at room temperature for the best results.
• Not testing for doneness: Relying solely on time can lead to over- or under-baked cake. Use a toothpick to check if it comes out clean before removing it from the oven.
• Skipping frosting cooling: Frosting a warm cake can cause it to melt and slide off. Allow the cake to cool completely before adding your frosting.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover slices in an airtight container.
• The cake will last up to 5 days in the fridge.

Freezing Brown Butter Caramel Cake

• Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Brown Butter Caramel Cake

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the slice on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices in 10-15 second intervals until warmed through. Be careful not to overheat!
• Stovetop: Place a slice in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid. Warm for about 5 minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making a Brown Butter Caramel Cake.

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

You can use salted butter, but reduce the added salt in the recipe slightly for balance.

How do I know when my brown butter is ready?

Look for a rich golden color and a nutty aroma. Be careful not to burn it!

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

Yes! You can bake it one day ahead and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to frost and serve.

What is the best way to customize this cake?

Feel free to add nuts, chocolate chips, or different flavor extracts based on your preference!

Final Thoughts

This Brown Butter Caramel Cake is not just delicious; it’s also versatile! You can easily customize it with different flavors or toppings. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging yourself, this cake will surely impress everyone. Give it a try!