Caramel Layer Cake Recipe

If you’ve ever dreamed of a cake that combines the rich warmth of caramel with tender, moist layers and a buttery frosting that feels like a sweet hug, you’re going to adore this Caramel Layer Cake. This recipe brings together simple pantry staples and a luscious caramel filling and buttercream to create a show-stopping dessert that’s as comforting as it is elegant. Every bite offers a perfect balance of fluffy cake, gooey caramel, and creamy frosting that’ll have you reaching for seconds and wanting to share the recipe with everyone you know.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward and easy to find, yet each one plays a vital role in making this Caramel Layer Cake irresistibly delicious. From the soft butter that makes the cake tender to the rich dulce de leche that lends an unmistakable caramel flavor, every component works in harmony for perfect texture and taste.

• All-purpose flour: The foundation of the cake’s structure, providing just the right amount of fluffiness.
• Baking powder and baking soda: Leavening agents that ensure the cake rises beautifully and stays light.
• Salt: Enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors.
• Unsalted butter: Adds richness and creates a tender crumb when creamed with sugar.
• Sugar: Sweetens the cake and helps achieve a lovely golden color.
• Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add moisture and structure.
• Vanilla extract: Infuses a warm aromatic note that complements caramel perfectly.
• Buttermilk: Adds moisture and a slight tang to keep the cake tender and flavorful.
• Dulce de leche or thick caramel spread: The star ingredient for the filling and frosting, delivering that deep caramel taste.
• Powdered sugar: For a smooth, silky frosting texture.
• Heavy cream or milk: Softens the buttercream and makes it spreadable.

How to Make Caramel Layer Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Batter

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepping two 8-inch cake pans with grease and parchment paper to ensure an easy release. Then, whisk together all the dry ingredients—flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt—in one bowl. In a separate large bowl, cream the softened butter with sugar until it becomes light and fluffy, which is key for a delicate crumb. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, and stir in the vanilla extract for that lovely aromatic base.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

Now, alternate adding the dry mixture and buttermilk to your butter and sugar base, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix just until everything comes together to avoid overworking the batter, which helps keep the cake tender and soft. Dividing the batter evenly between the prepared pans will help ensure your layers bake uniformly.

Step 3: Bake and Cool

Bake the layers for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. This step is crucial to avoid underbaking or drying out your cake layers, so keep an eye on them as oven temperatures can vary. Once baked, cool the cakes completely before moving on to assembly, so your frosting doesn’t melt and slide off.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

With your layers cooled, spread a generous layer of dulce de leche between the two cakes. This rich caramel filling is what gives the Caramel Layer Cake its signature depth of flavor. Spread evenly but thickly enough that every bite promises that decadent caramel surprise.

Step 5: Make the Caramel Buttercream

Whip softened butter until creamy and gradually add sifted powdered sugar to avoid lumps. Then, blend in dulce de leche, heavy cream, salt, and vanilla extract until the frosting is light, smooth, and fluffy. This buttercream is luscious without being overly sweet, perfectly complementing the cake layers and caramel filling.

Step 6: Frost and Decorate

Frost the top and sides of the cake with your caramel buttercream, smoothing it out for a clean finish. Feel free to get creative by piping caramel swirls on top for a beautiful presentation. Pop the cake into the fridge for about 30 minutes to set the frosting before serving—this step helps the buttercream maintain its shape and texture.

How to Serve Caramel Layer Cake

Garnishes

To elevate your Caramel Layer Cake even more, consider garnishing with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt, which amps up the caramel flavor by adding a pleasing contrast. Crushed toasted nuts like pecans or walnuts can add a delightful crunch. Fresh fruit such as sliced pears or apples also pairs beautifully, bringing a light freshness to balance the richness.

Side Dishes

When serving slices of this cake, a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream makes a perfect companion. For an adult touch, a drizzle of bourbon caramel sauce on the side or a cup of strong coffee or black tea can enhance the experience, satisfying both the sweet tooth and the desire for a warm, comforting beverage.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re looking to impress guests, try serving your Caramel Layer Cake in elegant, individual cake stands or under glass cloches for a special touch. Layer mini versions in a jar layered with caramel and buttercream for sweet mini desserts. Decorating with edible gold leaf or delicate caramel shards can transform this humble cake into a centerpiece worthy of any celebration.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can keep any leftover Caramel Layer Cake fresh by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerating for up to 4 days. This will preserve the texture and prevent the caramel buttercream from drying out. Before enjoying again, let the slices sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes to soften slightly, allowing the flavors to shine.

Freezing

To freeze the cake, place it in an airtight container and wrap it well with plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn. Frozen Caramel Layer Cake will maintain its quality for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then bring it to room temperature before serving for the best taste and texture.

Reheating

Since this is a frosted cake with delicate caramel, reheating is not typically recommended. However, if you want to enjoy a warm slice, gently warm it for 10 to 15 seconds in the microwave—just enough to make the caramel slightly gooey but not melt the frosting completely. Serve immediately for a comforting treat.

FAQs

Can I use regular caramel sauce instead of dulce de leche?

While caramel sauce can work in a pinch, dulce de leche has a thicker, creamier consistency and a more complex flavor that is ideal for both the filling and frosting in this cake.

What can I substitute for buttermilk?

If you don’t have buttermilk, mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar, let it sit for 5 minutes, then use it as a perfect homemade substitute.

How do I make sure my cake layers come out perfectly even?

Weighing your batter and dividing it evenly between pans helps a lot, as does tapping pans gently on the counter to release air bubbles before baking.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking might work, but results can vary; adding a binding agent like xanthan gum may help maintain the cake’s structure.

How long does the caramel buttercream last?

Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, caramel buttercream can last up to a week. Bring it back to room temperature and re-whip before using for the best texture.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Caramel Layer Cake enough for anyone who loves the perfect marriage of rich caramel and tender cake. It’s a recipe that works beautifully for celebrations or just because you deserve something special. Once you try it, I bet it will quickly become a beloved favorite, as it has for me and many others who crave that deep, buttery caramel magic in every slice.