Create a decadent chocolate cake layered with rich chocolate caramel frosting for a dessert that’s a feast for the eyes and the palate.
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup cocoa powder
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup hot coffee
- ½ cup vegetable oil
For the Chocolate Caramel Frosting:
- 1 ½ cups butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- ½ cup cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ⅓ teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 tablespoons caramel sauce (try my salted caramel sauce recipe)
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
Instructions:
- Cake Preparation:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and prepare two 8-inch cake pans with cooking spray and parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, sifted cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar.
- Whisk in the eggs, buttermilk, oil, and vanilla until just combined. Stir in the hot coffee until you achieve a smooth batter without any lumps.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let the cakes cool completely.
- Frosting Creation:
- For the frosting, cream together butter, powdered sugar, and sifted cocoa powder. Add vanilla, salt, caramel sauce, and heavy cream, then beat until fluffy and smooth.
- Cake Assembly:
- On your cake stand or plate, place a small dollop of frosting to secure the bottom layer.
- Add the first cake layer and pipe a frosting border around the edge. Fill in with a thin layer of frosting and ⅓ cup of caramel sauce. Repeat with the second layer and top with the final cake layer.
- Use the remaining frosting to cover the top and sides of the cake. Decorate as desired.
Notes:
- For even baking, use cake strips around your pans.
- Ingredients should be at room temperature to mix evenly and produce a better texture.
- When measuring flour, use the spoon-and-level method for accuracy.
- Mix the batter just until combined to keep the cake moist; overmixing can make it dense and dry.
- Cooling the cakes completely ensures the frosting will stay put and not melt upon application.
Enjoy this chocolatey delight, perfect for special occasions or as a sumptuous treat for chocolate lovers. The combination of tender cake and luscious frosting is sure to be a hit!
