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I’m a passionate home cook from the United States, and I can’t wait to share my easy Salted Caramel Cake recipe with you. This salted caramel cake combines a moist layer cake base with silky caramel frosting, making it an approachable homemade caramel cake dessert. My family always asks for this cake with caramel sauce drizzle at every celebration. It works as the perfect cake recipe birthday and doubles as a showstopper for casual gatherings. Above all, this caramel flavored cake stays simple yet delicious. Try my easy caramel cake today, and taste why I love salted caramel cake.
Salted Caramel Cake stands out as a fun and flavorful dessert that fits any occasion. Whether you need a show-stopping cake recipe birthday or a quick homemade caramel cake dessert, this salted caramel cake will deliver. It blends a moist layer cake texture with rich, buttery caramel and just the right pinch of sea salt. Moreover, this caramel flavored cake highlights the sweet-salty contrast everyone loves. Consequently, you’ll find it’s both an easy caramel cake to bake and an impressive treat for casual gatherings. In addition, you can adapt this Vanilla Caramel Cake version with a hint of vanilla extract. Ready to bake the ultimate salted caramel cake? Let’s dive into the story, ingredients, and steps that make this dessert unforgettable.
Salted Caramel Cake
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and 1/2 tsp salt.
- In a large bowl, cream butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well. Stir in vanilla extract.
- Alternate adding dry ingredients and milk, starting and ending with dry. Mix until smooth.
- Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and smooth the tops. Bake for 25–30 minutes.
- Cool cakes for 10 minutes in pans, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
- To make caramel, heat brown sugar, butter, and heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 2 minutes.
- Remove caramel from heat and stir in sea salt. Let cool to thicken slightly.
- To assemble, place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread half the caramel over it. Top with second layer and pour remaining caramel on top.
- Garnish with extra sea salt. Slice and serve warm or at room temperature.
Nutrition
Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!The Story & Inspiration Behind Salted Caramel Cake
A Personal Memory
In my early cooking days, I discovered salted caramel cake almost by accident. One summer evening, my daughter Ella asked for a bold dessert after her school play. I wanted to impress, so I experimented with homemade caramel cake dessert flavors inspired by a local cafe. First, I mixed a classic moist layer cake batter with tender crumb. Then, I swirled in silky caramel sauce and topped each layer with a light sea salt sprinkle. Immediately, my kitchen filled with sweet, buttery aroma. As a result, Ella tasted a slice and exclaimed, “Mom, this is the best cake ever!” My husband Daniel joined in, praising the balance of sweet caramel glaze over the layers. Consequently, this cake recipe birthday creation became our household’s signature dessert. Over time, I adjusted ratios to boost flavor depth and kept the sponge extra tender. Looking back, that moment taught me how simple ingredients can create show-stopping desserts. Moreover, it marked the beginning of countless experiments in cake recipes caramel, inspiring me to share this easy caramel cake with you today.
Why This Recipe Matters
This salted caramel cake matters because it bridges simple baking with gourmet flavor. Beginners and seasoned bakers alike can follow these easy caramel cake steps, and yet they’ll end up with restaurant-quality results. Additionally, this recipe uses pantry staples, so you won’t need fancy ingredients. Instead, you can adapt it into a Vanilla Caramel Cake variant by adding pure vanilla extract or into a chocolate caramel fusion by mixing cocoa powder. Furthermore, I include tips for a low-carb swap or plant-based version to meet diverse dietary needs. With its moist layer cake structure, this cake holds up well under rich caramel frosting. Consequently, it stands out among Cake Recipes Caramel and also ranks high for Cake Recipes Birthday celebrations. Beyond its versatility, this cake also highlights the perfect balance between sweet and salty. As a result, it appeals to those who love bold dessert experiences without overwhelming sweetness. Ultimately, I designed this recipe to offer both reliability and flexibility, so you can delight your guests or treat yourself anytime.
Ingredients & Instructions
Ingredients You Need for Salted Caramel Cake
Gather these ingredients before you begin baking. You’ll see that this recipe keeps things simple yet flavorful.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups |
| Baking powder | 2 tsp |
| Salt | 1 tsp |
| Unsalted butter, room temp | ½ cup (1 stick) |
| Granulated sugar | 1½ cups |
| Eggs | 3 large |
| Milk | 1 cup |
| Vanilla extract | 2 tsp |
| Brown sugar | 1 cup |
| Heavy cream | ½ cup |
| Sea salt | 1 tsp |
Quality ingredients make a difference in this cake. For best results, use fresh eggs, high-quality dairy, and pure vanilla extract. Furthermore, you can swap milk with almond or oat milk for dairy-free adaptation. If you prefer a low-sugar version, consider using an alternative sweetener that measures cup for cup.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Salted Caramel Cake
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans.
- In a bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and ½ tsp salt. Set aside.
- Cream butter and sugar in a mixer until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in vanilla.
- Alternate adding dry ingredients and milk, beginning and ending with dry. Stir until smooth.
- Divide batter evenly between pans. Smooth tops with a spatula.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks.
- For caramel sauce, combine brown sugar, butter, and heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until it boils, then simmer 2 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in sea salt. Let cool to thicken.
- To assemble, place one cake layer on a plate. Spread half the caramel sauce. Top with second layer and pour remaining sauce over top. Garnish with extra salt if desired.
- Slice with a sharp knife. Serve warm or at room temperature. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Tips, Variations, and Serving Ideas
Smart Swaps & Variations
Feel free to swap dairy milk for almond milk to create a plant-based twist. Instead of granulated sugar, use coconut sugar for a deeper flavor. For a low-carb lifestyle, replace sugar with erythritol and use almond flour in place of all-purpose flour, though results may vary. To make a Vanilla Caramel Cake version, add an extra teaspoon of vanilla and a hint of almond extract. If you love chocolate, stir ¼ cup cocoa powder into half the batter for a layered chocolate salted caramel cake. You can also transform this moist layer cake into cupcakes by adjusting bake time to 18–20 minutes. For a fun holiday variation, fold in chopped pecans or a sprinkle of cinnamon. Additionally, experiment with a sea salt swirl in the batter to intensify salty notes. Each variation stays easy and beginner-friendly, ensuring you can customize without stress.
Serving Suggestions
As a cake with caramel sauce, this dessert shines best served slightly warm. Moreover, pair a slice with vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a sophisticated twist, serve with fresh berries like raspberries or sliced apples. If you plan make-ahead, bake layers a day early and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. Store caramel sauce separately in the fridge, then gently reheat before assembly. For parties, cut the cake into small squares for finger-friendly portions. You can also layer cubes in small jars or trifle dishes, alternating cake, caramel, and whipped cream for individual parfaits. When storing leftovers, place cake in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. To refresh stale slices, microwave on low for 10 seconds—your cake tastes almost fresh again. Ultimately, the serving ideas help you present this easy caramel cake with flair. Whether you choose elegant plating or casual sharing, this cake always impresses.
Health Benefits of Salted Caramel Cake
While salted caramel cake remains a treat, you gain some nutritional perks from quality ingredients. For example, eggs supply high-quality protein and essential B vitamins. Milk and cream add calcium and vitamin D, which support bone health. Moreover, using whole-grain or almond flour variations boosts fiber content, aiding digestion and steady energy release. Consequently, you avoid the sugar crash that often follows refined desserts. If you choose a low-sugar or keto-friendly swap, you lower net carbs yet retain flavor. Additionally, sea salt contributes trace minerals like magnesium and potassium. Therefore, this dessert fits a balanced lifestyle when enjoyed in moderation. Ultimately, the combination of protein, calcium, and moderate fats makes this salted caramel cake a more rounded indulgence compared to typical baked goods. Furthermore, the homemade approach lets you control ingredient quality and quantity, supporting mindful eating habits without sacrificing taste.
Conclusion
By now, you’ve seen how versatile and crowd-pleasing this salted caramel cake can be. Moreover, you know how to adapt it into a moist layer cake, a vanilla caramel cake variant, or even cupcakes. Whether you bake for a special cake recipe birthday or a casual weekend treat, this cake delivers rich caramel notes, balanced sweetness, and just the right hint of sea salt. Additionally, you’ve learned tips for plant-based swaps, low-carb options, and stunning presentations. Ultimately, this salted caramel cake aligns with my mission at Cooklyum.com: to make cooking accessible, creative, and joyful. So preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to impress everyone around your table. Happy baking!
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FAQs About Salted Caramel Cake
Can I make this cake dairy-free?
Yes. Swap milk and heavy cream for coconut or almond milk, and use vegan butter. Also choose dairy-free sugar blends to keep the caramel sauce smooth and rich.
How do I store leftover salted caramel cake?
Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. Reheat slices for 10 seconds in the microwave to refresh texture and soften the caramel.
Can I freeze this cake?
You can freeze unfrosted layers for up to one month. Wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Thaw overnight in the fridge before adding caramel sauce.
What’s the best way to get clean slices?
Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water, then wiped dry. Slice slowly in one smooth motion. Repeat between cuts for neat, even pieces.