Butterscotch Cake: An Irresistible Indulgence
If you've ever scrolled through the subreddit r/Baking, you might have noticed how often homemade butterscotch cake gets mentioned. There's something truly enchanting about the buttery richness combined with the caramelized sweetness of butterscotch. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into a classic butterscotch cake recipe that has won hearts and taste buds on Reddit. Whether you're an avid baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is straightforward, delicious, and perfect for impressing guests or indulging in a delightful treat by yourself.
Ingredients
To start, here's what you'll need for the cake:
- 2 cups of all-purpose flour
- 1 and 1/2 cups of granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup of vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup of buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon of baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 3/4 cup of butterscotch chips, melted
For the Butterscotch Frosting:
- 1 cup of unsalted butter
- 4 cups of powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup of heavy cream
- 1/2 cup of butterscotch sauce, store-bought or homemade
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
🍰 Note: If you're planning to make your butterscotch sauce from scratch, remember to prepare it beforehand as it needs to cool before using.
Instructions for the Cake
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: In a large bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. This helps to incorporate air and ensure that your cake won't be dense.
Step 3: In another bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Gradually add in the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
Step 4: Mix in the oil and vanilla extract. Then, alternate adding the dry ingredients and buttermilk to the wet mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Stir in the melted butterscotch chips until just combined.
Step 5: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Tap the pans on the counter to release any air bubbles.
Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of each cake comes out clean.
Step 7: Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely before frosting.
Instructions for the Butterscotch Frosting
Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing until well combined.
Step 2: Add the heavy cream and beat on medium-high speed until fluffy. Stir in the butterscotch sauce, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
Step 3: If the frosting is too runny, add more powdered sugar. If it's too thick, thin it out with additional cream or a tablespoon of milk.
Assembling the Cake
Step 1: Place one cake layer on your serving plate. Spread a generous amount of butterscotch frosting over the top.
Step 2: Carefully place the second layer on top and cover the entire cake with the remaining frosting. Use a spatula or cake scraper to achieve a smooth finish.
Step 3: Optionally, decorate the top with additional butterscotch chips or drizzles of butterscotch sauce for an extra touch of sweetness and aesthetic appeal.
To sum up, baking a butterscotch cake can be a delightful experience, blending the comfort of homemade baking with the unique flavor of butterscotch. This recipe, favored by Reddit users, provides a fluffy, moist texture with the perfect balance of sweetness, making it an ideal choice for any baking enthusiast looking to explore new flavors or create a memorable dessert. The simplicity of the steps combined with the delectable results make this cake not only a treat to eat but also a joy to bake, promising smiles all around when served to family and friends.
What makes butterscotch different from caramel?
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Butterscotch is made from brown sugar and butter, which gives it a richer, deeper flavor, whereas caramel is made from white sugar melted down to a golden brown color.
Can I make this cake without butterscotch chips?
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Yes, you can omit the butterscotch chips or substitute them with chocolate chips or toffee bits for a different flavor profile.
How should I store the butterscotch cake?
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Store the cake in an airtight container or well-covered at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer shelf life. Allow it to come to room temperature before serving for the best taste and texture.
