Caramel Coffee Buttercream Cake

A celebration in every slice, this Caramel Coffee Buttercream Cake combines tender, coffee-infused layers with silky caramel buttercream for the ultimate indulgence. Rich, aromatic, and stunning to present, it’s the perfect dessert for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect flavor balance: Deep coffee and rich caramel are beautifully intertwined.
• Elegant presentation: The cocoa powder dusting gives it a bakery-worthy finish.
• Velvety texture: Moist layers and creamy buttercream make every bite melt in your mouth.
• Ideal for celebrations: Impressive enough for birthdays, holidays, or just because.

Ingredients

Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup brewed coffee, cooled
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 4 large eggs
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 2 tsp vanilla extract

Buttercream:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup caramel sauce
• 2 tbsp brewed coffee, cooled
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Garnish:

• Cocoa powder for dusting

Directions

Prepare the Cake

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans.
3. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy.
4. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
5. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
6. Add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture in batches, alternating with the brewed coffee and milk. Start and end with dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
7. Evenly divide the batter among the prepared cake pans. Smooth the tops.
8. Bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Cool the cakes in pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto wire racks to cool completely.

Make the Caramel Coffee Buttercream

1. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until smooth and creamy.
2. Gradually add powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, beating well after each addition.
3. Add the caramel sauce, brewed coffee, heavy cream, and vanilla extract. Beat until light and fluffy.

Assemble the Cake

1. Place the first cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a generous layer of caramel coffee buttercream on top.
2. Add the second cake layer and repeat the process.
3. Top with the final cake layer and frost the top and sides with the remaining buttercream.
4. Smooth the surface using a spatula or cake scraper.
5. Lightly dust the top of the cake with cocoa powder for a polished finish.

Pro Tips and Variations

• Salted caramel version: Add a pinch of sea salt to the buttercream for a salty-sweet twist.
• Mocha frosting: Add 2 tablespoons cocoa powder to the buttercream.
• Extra garnish: Drizzle caramel sauce over the finished cake for added decadence.
• Room temperature ingredients: Ensure eggs and butter are room temperature for smoother blending.
• Avoid overmixing: Once the flour is in, mix just until combined to keep the cake light.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this cake with a freshly brewed coffee, espresso, or cold milk. You can also serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or an extra drizzle of caramel on the side.

Storage/Reheating

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

• Refrigerate for up to 4 days. Let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving if chilled.
• Cake layers can be frozen for up to 1 month when wrapped tightly in plastic wrap.

FAQs

Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! Bake the layers in advance and freeze them for up to a month. Thaw before assembling and frosting.

How do I prevent dryness?
Avoid overbaking and use a toothpick to test doneness—look for a few moist crumbs.

Conclusion

This Caramel Coffee Buttercream Cake is a coffee lover’s dream, blending smooth caramel with rich, moist cake layers. It’s a showstopper both in flavor and appearance—perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to something extraordinary.

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