There’s something irresistible about the rich combination of coffee and caramel in a dessert. Our Coffee and Caramel Cake recipe brings together bold coffee flavors with the sweet, buttery notes of caramel for a truly decadent treat. Whether you’re serving it at a special occasion or just craving a cozy slice with your afternoon cup, this cake never disappoints.
Ingredients
Below we list the essential ingredients for our Coffee and Caramel Cake recipe. Each section covers components that build up the layers of flavor, from the moist cake base to the luscious frosting.
For the Cake
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour, sifted
- 2 ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup brewed strong coffee, cooled
- 1 cup whole milk, room temperature
For the Coffee Syrup
- ½ cup brewed strong coffee, hot
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp coffee liqueur (optional, adds depth)
For the Caramel Sauce
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter, cubed
- ½ cup heavy cream, warmed
- ½ tsp sea salt (for salted caramel variation)
For the Frosting
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 3 tbsp brewed coffee, cooled
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
| Component | Key Ingredients | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cake | Flour, baking powder, butter, eggs, coffee | Moist texture with coffee flavor |
| Coffee Syrup | Coffee, sugar, coffee liqueur | Enhances cake coffee notes |
| Caramel Sauce | Sugar, butter, heavy cream, salt | Rich, smooth, optionally salted |
| Frosting | Butter, powdered sugar, coffee, vanilla, salt | Creamy, coffee-infused sweetness |
This combination of ingredients works together to deliver the perfect balance between bold coffee and rich caramel, making our cake a standout dessert.
Equipment Needed
To prepare our Coffee and Caramel Cake flawlessly, having the right equipment on hand ensures both precision and ease throughout the process. Here’s what we recommend:
- Mixing Bowls
Use medium and large glass or stainless steel bowls for combining dry and wet ingredients separately.
- Electric Mixer
A stand mixer or hand mixer speeds up creaming butter and sugar, beating eggs, and whipping the frosting to the perfect consistency.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Accurate measurement of ingredients like all-purpose flour, baking powder, and liquids like brewed coffee is critical for balanced flavors.
- 8 or 9-inch Round Cake Pans
Two pans of the same size help bake even layers of the cake. Grease and flour them well to prevent sticking.
- Cooling Rack
Essential for proper cooling of cake layers before frosting to maintain the right texture.
- Saucepan
We use this for preparing the coffee syrup and caramel sauce—choose one that distributes heat evenly.
- Spatula and Offset Spatula
A rubber spatula helps scrape bowls clean, while an offset spatula is perfect for smooth frosting application.
- Whisk
For mixing coffee syrup and caramel sauce ingredients to smooth consistency.
- Toothpick or Cake Tester
For testing cake doneness before removing it from the oven.
| Equipment | Purpose | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Mixing Bowls | Mixing dry and wet ingredients | Choose non-reactive materials |
| Electric Mixer | Creaming and whipping | Use proper speed settings for best results |
| Measuring Cups/Spoons | Accurate ingredient measurement | Level off dry ingredients for precision |
| Cake Pans (8 or 9-inch) | Baking cake layers | Grease and flour pans thoroughly |
| Cooling Rack | Cooling baked layers | Prevents sogginess |
| Saucepan | Cooking syrups and caramel | Medium heat for even cooking |
| Spatulas | Mixing and frosting application | Flexible rubber spatula and offset one |
| Whisk | Blending | Use for smooth sauces |
| Toothpick or Tester | Doneness check | Insert into center for baking test |
Having this equipment ready streamlines our baking flow and guarantees that every element—from the rich coffee syrup to the luscious caramel frosting—turns out perfectly every time.
Prep Work
Before we begin assembling our Coffee and Caramel Cake, it’s essential to complete some key preparatory steps. These tasks will ensure our baking process flows smoothly and our flavors meld perfectly.
Preparing the Cake Pans
To get perfectly baked layers, we must prepare our cake pans meticulously.
- Use two 8 or 9-inch round cake pans to ensure even baking.
- Grease the pans with unsalted butter or a neutral oil to prevent sticking.
- Lightly dust the greased pans with all-purpose flour, tapping out the excess flour.
- Alternatively, you can line the bottoms with parchment paper circles for extra assurance.
- Place the pans aside on a flat surface while we prepare the batter.
| Step | Action | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Grease Pans | Apply butter or oil | Prevent cake from sticking to pans |
| Dust with Flour | Light dusting of flour | Helps cake release smoothly |
| Line with Parchment | Cut circles and place inside pans | Ensures easy cake removal |
Making the Coffee Syrup
The coffee syrup injects deep coffee flavor and moistness into the cake layers. Here is how we make it:
- Brew strong coffee using ½ cup of hot water with 2 tablespoons of finely ground coffee or instant espresso powder.
- Combine the coffee with ½ cup granulated sugar in a small saucepan.
- Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar dissolves completely.
- Allow the syrup to simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes, thickening slightly.
- Remove from heat and set aside to cool to room temperature before using.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Hot Water | ½ cup | Used to brew strong coffee |
| Ground Coffee/Espresso | 2 tablespoons | Provides deep coffee flavor |
| Granulated Sugar | ½ cup | Sweetens syrup |
Tip: Cooling the syrup before brushing it on the cake prevents sogginess.
Preparing the Caramel Sauce
The caramel sauce adds luscious sweetness that perfectly contrasts the coffee’s boldness.
- In a medium saucepan, melt 1 cup granulated sugar over medium heat.
- Stir constantly with a wooden spoon or heatproof spatula to avoid burning.
- When the sugar melts completely and turns to a golden amber color, carefully add 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into pieces.
- Stir until butter is fully incorporated.
- Slowly pour in ½ cup heavy cream, stirring continuously. Be cautious of steam.
- Continue cooking for 1 to 2 minutes until sauce is smooth and thickened slightly.
- Remove from heat and transfer to a heatproof bowl to cool before frosting.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Granulated Sugar | 1 cup | Base for caramel |
| Unsalted Butter | 6 tablespoons | Adds richness and smooth texture |
| Heavy Cream | ½ cup | Creates creamy consistency |
Warning: Caramel can cause burns—handle with care during preparation.
We now have our pans primed, coffee syrup brewed, and caramel sauce ready to elevate our Coffee and Caramel Cake layers and frosting.
Directions
Follow these steps carefully to create the perfect Coffee and Caramel Cake with rich layers and balanced flavors. Each stage is designed to highlight the bold coffee and sweet caramel in harmony.
Making the Cake Batter
- In a large mixing bowl, cream 1 cup unsalted butter and 1 ½ cups granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes).
- Add 3 large eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure each is fully incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Slowly alternate adding the dry ingredients and 1 cup brewed coffee (cooled) to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. This will keep the batter moist and rich.
- Mix in ¾ cup whole milk and 2 teaspoons vanilla extract until just combined. Avoid overmixing to maintain a tender crumb.
Tip: Scrape down the sides of the bowl periodically to ensure even blending.
Baking the Cake
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared 8 or 9-inch cake pans.
- Smooth the surface with a spatula to ensure even layers.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
| Temperature | Time | Test for Doneness |
|---|---|---|
| 350°F | 30-35 minutes | Toothpick comes out clean |
- Rotate pans halfway through baking for even color and texture.
Cooling the Cake Layers
- Remove cakes from the oven and place on a wire cooling rack.
- Let cool in pans for 10 minutes.
- Run a knife around the edges and carefully invert cakes onto the rack.
- Allow to cool completely before applying syrup or frosting.
Applying the Coffee Syrup
- Using a pastry brush, generously soak each cake layer with the prepared coffee syrup.
- Ensure the syrup is evenly distributed to keep the cake moist and enhance the coffee flavor.
- Let the layers absorb the syrup for 5 minutes before assembling.
Assembling the Cake Layers
- Place one soaked cake layer on your serving plate or cake stand.
- Spread about ¾ cup frosting evenly over the surface.
- Repeat with the second layer.
- If making a triple-layer cake, repeat the process accordingly.
- Finish by stacking the top layer without frosting.
Preparing and Applying the Frosting
- Whip the prepared coffee frosting until smooth and spreadable.
- Apply a thin crumb coat over the entire cake to seal in crumbs.
- Chill for 15-20 minutes to set the crumb coat.
- Frost the cake generously with the remaining frosting, smoothing with an offset spatula.
- Decorate the edges and top as desired.
Drizzling the Caramel Sauce
- Warm the caramel sauce slightly to a pourable consistency.
- Using a spoon or squeeze bottle, drizzle caramel over the top of the cake.
- Let the caramel drip naturally down the sides for an elegant look.
- Optionally, sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt for enhanced flavor contrast.
Make-Ahead Tips
To ensure a seamless baking experience with our Coffee and Caramel Cake, planning ahead is key. Here are our top make-ahead strategies to keep every element fresh and flavorful:
Preparing Cake Layers in Advance
We can bake the cake layers up to 2 days ahead. After baking and cooling completely:
- Wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap.
- Store wrapped layers in an airtight container or resealable bag.
- Keep them at room temperature to preserve moisture.
This prevents drying and keeps the cake soft, ready for assembly when we want.
Storing Coffee Syrup and Caramel Sauce
Both the coffee syrup and caramel sauce can be made 3 to 4 days in advance:
| Component | Storage Method | Storage Duration | Serving Tip |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coffee Syrup | Refrigerated in a jar | Up to 4 days | Warm slightly before use |
| Caramel Sauce | Refrigerated in jar | Up to 4 days | Reheat gently to drizzle |
We should bring syrups to room temperature or warm gently before application to maintain smooth textures.
Frosting Make-Ahead
The caramel frosting holds well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days:
- Store it in an airtight container.
- Before frosting the cake, whip the frosting briefly to restore spreadable consistency.
Assembly and Storage
We recommend assembling the whole cake 1 day before serving:
- After frosting and drizzling caramel, keep the cake refrigerated.
- Allow the cake to rest at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving to bring out flavors and soften frosting.
Pro Tip:
For ultimate freshness, avoid freezing this cake since it might affect the delicate coffee and caramel balance and frosting texture.
By following these Make-Ahead Tips, we can enjoy an impressive, flavorful Coffee and Caramel Cake with less day-of stress and perfect results every time.
Serving Suggestions
To fully enjoy our Coffee and Caramel Cake, we recommend serving it with complementary flavors and textures that highlight its rich profile. Here are some expert tips to elevate your cake experience:
- Pair with Fresh Coffee or Espresso: The bold coffee flavor in the cake shines brightest when accompanied by a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a robust espresso. This pairing intensifies the deep coffee notes and balances the sweetness of the caramel.
- Add a Dollop of Whipped Cream: A lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a fluffy, creamy contrast to the dense cake layers. Use freshly whipped cream with a hint of vanilla to enhance the cake’s flavor without overpowering it.
- Serve with Fresh Berries: Tart berries like raspberries or blackberries provide a refreshing acidity that cuts through the caramel’s sweetness and complements the coffee undertones. Arrange a small bowl beside each slice or garnish the plate.
- Drizzle with Extra Warm Caramel Sauce: For a show-stopping presentation, drizzle more warm caramel sauce over each slice just before serving. The sauce adds a glossy, rich finish that reinforces the cake’s caramel element.
- Sprinkle with Toasted Nuts: Chopped toasted pecans or walnuts bring a delightful crunch and an earthy note. Scatter them lightly on the frosting or on the serving plate to add texture and visual appeal.
- Serve at Room Temperature: Allow the cake to rest at room temperature for 20 to 30 minutes before serving. This step ensures the frosting softens slightly and the flavors meld perfectly for a smooth bite.
Serving Temperature and Presentation Table
| Serving Aspect | Recommendation | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Beverage Pairing | Fresh coffee or espresso | Enhances coffee flavor and balances caramel sweetness |
| Topping | Lightly sweetened whipped cream | Adds creamy contrast and lightness |
| Accompaniment | Fresh raspberries or blackberries | Provides acidity for flavor balance |
| Extra Garnish | Warm caramel drizzle | Reinforces caramel flavor and creates elegant presentation |
| Texture Enhancement | Toasted pecans or walnuts | Introduces crunch and earthy undertones |
| Serving Temperature | Room temperature for 20-30 minutes | Allows frosting to soften and flavors to harmonize |
“The perfect slice of Coffee and Caramel Cake is a balance of bold coffee, smooth caramel, and complementary textures that come alive when served thoughtfully.”
By following these serving tips we ensure that every bite of our cake delights the palate with complex flavors and textures.
Storage Instructions
To maintain the moist texture and bold flavors of our Coffee and Caramel Cake, proper storage is essential. Follow these steps to keep the cake fresh and delicious for several days:
Storing Cake Layers
- Once the cake layers have cooled completely, wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap.
- Place the wrapped layers in an airtight container or a sealable plastic bag.
- Store the layers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before assembling.
Coffee Syrup and Caramel Sauce
Both the coffee syrup and caramel sauce enhance moisture and flavor but should be stored separately:
| Item | Storage Method | Shelf Life |
|---|---|---|
| Coffee Syrup | Airtight container in fridge | 3 to 4 days |
| Caramel Sauce | Airtight container in fridge | 3 to 4 days |
- Before using, warm slightly to regain fluidity and stir well.
Caramel Frosting
- Store frosting in an airtight container.
- Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Bring to room temperature and whisk gently before spreading, ensuring smooth, creamy results.
Assembled Cake Storage
- After assembling and frosting, cover the cake loosely with plastic wrap or place in a cake dome.
- Keep the cake in the refrigerator.
- Consume within 2 days to enjoy the freshest flavor and texture.
- Allow the cake to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving to soften the frosting and enhance flavor.
Important Notes
“Avoid freezing the Coffee and Caramel Cake,” as freezing disrupts the delicate balance of the coffee flavor, the caramel’s texture, and the moist crumb structure.
By following these storage instructions, we preserve the rich, vibrant flavors and the perfect moisture balance of our Coffee and Caramel Cake for every delightful slice.
Conclusion
This Coffee and Caramel Cake strikes the perfect harmony between rich coffee and luscious caramel flavors. With the right ingredients, equipment, and preparation steps, it’s a dessert that impresses every time. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or a cozy afternoon treat, this cake delivers both comfort and elegance.
By following the make-ahead tips and serving suggestions, we can enjoy a hassle-free experience and elevate every bite. Storing it properly ensures the cake stays moist and flavorful, letting us savor its decadent layers whenever we want. This recipe truly brings together the best of coffee and caramel in a way that’s both delicious and memorable.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key ingredients for the Coffee and Caramel Cake?
The main ingredients include all-purpose flour, baking powder, unsalted butter, eggs, brewed coffee, and whole milk. Additional components are used for the coffee syrup, caramel sauce, and caramel frosting to create a rich and balanced flavor.
What equipment do I need to bake this cake?
You’ll need mixing bowls, an electric mixer, measuring cups and spoons, 8 or 9-inch round cake pans, a cooling rack, saucepan, spatulas, a whisk, and a toothpick or cake tester for best results.
How do I prepare the cake pans for baking?
Grease the pans well, then dust with flour. Optionally, line them with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
How is the coffee syrup made and used?
The coffee syrup is made by mixing brewed coffee with sugar and sometimes other flavorings. It’s brushed onto cooled cake layers to add moisture and enhance the coffee flavor.
What is the process for making the caramel sauce?
Caramel sauce is prepared by melting sugar until it browns, then carefully adding butter and cream. It’s cooked until smooth, providing a rich, sweet complement to the coffee flavor.
How do I bake and cool the cake layers properly?
Cream butter and sugar, add eggs, then alternate adding dry ingredients and brewed coffee to make the batter. Bake at the recommended temperature until a toothpick comes out clean. Let layers cool completely on a rack before assembly.
What are the steps to frost and assemble the cake?
First, apply a crumb coat of frosting to seal in crumbs. Chill briefly, then frost the cake fully. Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the top and optionally sprinkle sea salt for contrast.
Can I prepare parts of the cake ahead of time?
Yes. Bake layers up to two days early and store properly. Coffee syrup and caramel sauce can be made three to four days ahead, and frosting can be refrigerated for up to three days. Assemble the cake one day before serving.
How should I store the cake to keep it fresh?
Store cooled layers wrapped tightly and airtight in the fridge for up to two days. Keep syrups and frosting refrigerated separately. After assembly, keep cake loosely covered in the fridge, consuming within two days. Avoid freezing.
What are the best serving suggestions?
Serve with fresh coffee or espresso to highlight the cake’s flavors. Add whipped cream or fresh berries for a balanced sweetness and texture. Drizzle extra caramel sauce or sprinkle toasted nuts for added indulgence.