Caramel Coffee Cake Recipe: Easy & Delicious

Introduction to Caramel Coffee Cake

Imagine a cake that captures the aroma of freshly brewed coffee, the sweet decadence of caramel, and a delightful texture that melts in your mouth. Caramel Coffee Cake is just that—a simple yet divine dessert that marries the deep, comforting notes of coffee with the rich, velvety sweetness of caramel. Ideal for morning gatherings, afternoon treats, or as a sophisticated end to your dinner, this cake is bound to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Let’s dive into making this easy and delicious caramel coffee cake!

Ingredients

Before we start baking, let’s gather all the ingredients you’ll need for this delectable treat:

• For the Cake:
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ¹⁄₂ cup brown sugar
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ¹⁄₂ tsp baking soda
• ¹⁄₂ tsp salt
• 1 cup strong brewed coffee, cooled
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
• For the Caramel Topping:
• ¹⁄₂ cup heavy cream
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 6 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Optional:
• A handful of chopped nuts for texture

Preparation Instructions

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s proceed with the baking process:

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan with butter or non-stick cooking spray. Line the bottom with parchment paper to ensure the cake doesn’t stick.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with both sugars until the mixture is light and fluffy, which usually takes about 3-4 minutes. This step is crucial for the cake’s texture.

Step 3: Add Eggs

Add the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is well incorporated before adding the next. Don’t forget to scrape down the sides of the bowl for an even mix.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the brewed coffee. Start and end with the dry ingredients for best results.

Step 5: Vanilla Magic

Mix in the vanilla extract until just combined. The batter should be smooth and consistent.

Step 6: Pour and Bake

Pour the batter into your prepared cake pan. Smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Caramel Topping

While the cake is baking, you can prepare the caramel topping. In a saucepan, combine the heavy cream, sugar, and butter. Cook over medium heat until the sugar dissolves and the mixture begins to boil. Continue cooking until it turns a deep amber color, stirring constantly. Off the heat, add vanilla extract and whisk well. Let it cool slightly before using.

Step 8: Apply Caramel

Once your cake is baked and cooled, poke small holes across the top with a toothpick or fork. Drizzle the caramel topping over the cake, letting it seep into the holes for a soaked caramel flavor.

💡 Note: Be cautious when handling hot caramel; it can burn easily!

Step 9: Optional Nuts

If desired, sprinkle chopped nuts on top of the caramel for added texture and flavor contrast.

Step 10: Cool and Serve

Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing. Serve at room temperature for the best experience, where the caramel has slightly set but remains gooey.

Serving Suggestions

Caramel Coffee Cake pairs wonderfully with:

• A scoop of vanilla or coffee ice cream
• Whipped cream
• A cup of your favorite coffee or tea

☕ Note: The coffee element in the cake makes it an excellent dessert for after-dinner indulgence or a mid-morning coffee break.

Variations

Here are some variations you can try to tweak this recipe:

• Coffee Intensity: Adjust the strength of the coffee or substitute with espresso for a more pronounced coffee flavor.
• Caramel Depth: Add a pinch of sea salt to the caramel for salted caramel coffee cake.
• Add-Ins: Incorporate chocolate chips or swirl in some nut butter into the batter before baking.

Summary

Creating a caramel coffee cake at home is an enriching experience that blends the aromatic essence of coffee with the sweet richness of caramel. This recipe provides a moist, flavorful cake that’s both easy to make and utterly delicious. From the buttery foundation to the luscious caramel topping, every bite promises a delightful dance of flavors. Serve this cake to your loved ones, or savor it with your favorite beverage, and watch it become a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.