Why This Recipe Works
Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake blends rich coffee flavor with a sweet, sticky caramel that creates a delightful dessert experience. The combination of brewed coffee and buttermilk in the cake batter adds moisture and depth, while the caramel sauce provides an irresistible gooeyness that makes every bite a treat. This recipe balances flavors and textures perfectly, making it a standout dessert that is sure to impress.
Why You Should Try This Recipe
If you love coffee and dessert, this cake is a must-try! The unique flavor of coffee brings an unexpected richness to the sweet cake, and the homemade caramel sauce elevates it even further. This cake is perfect for any occasion, from a casual get-together to a special celebration. Plus, it’s easy to make, allowing bakers of all skill levels to create something truly scrumptious.
How to Make Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup brewed coffee, cooled
- ½ cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 2 tablespoons brewed coffee
- 1 tablespoon powdered sugar
Equipment Needed
- 9×9-inch baking pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Electric mixer (optional)
- Saucepan
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Toothpick for testing doneness
- Wire rack for cooling
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven & Prepare the Cake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
Step 2: Make the Cake Batter
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In a separate large bowl, beat the softened butter and egg until light and fluffy. Add the brewed coffee, buttermilk, and vanilla extract, mixing well. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until smooth.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
Pour the cake batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool for 10 minutes in the pan, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 4: Prepare the Caramel Sauce
While the cake cools, make the caramel sauce. In a saucepan, combine the brown sugar, butter, and heavy cream. Stir constantly over medium heat until the mixture simmers. Let it simmer for about 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat, then stir in vanilla extract and salt. Set aside.
How to Serve Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake
Slice the cake into squares and drizzle the warm caramel sauce over each piece. You can also serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra touch of indulgence.
How to Store Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake
To store the cake, place it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you have leftover caramel sauce, store it separately in the refrigerator. Reheat the sauce in a saucepan over low heat before serving.
Tips & Tricks
- Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
- Don’t skip cooling the cake before adding the caramel sauce; it helps the sauce stick better.
- Use freshly brewed coffee for the best flavor.
Variations & Substitutions
- For a chocolate twist, you can add cocoa powder to the cake batter.
- If you want a nutty flavor, consider adding chopped nuts to the batter or as a topping.
- Use almond milk or oat milk in place of buttermilk for a dairy-free version.
FAQs
1. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the cake a day ahead. Store it covered at room temperature and add the caramel sauce just before serving.
2. Is there a vegan option for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the egg with a flaxseed or chia seed mixture and use plant-based butter and non-dairy milk.
3. How long does the caramel sauce last?
The caramel sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Reheat it before using.
Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake
A rich dessert combining coffee flavor with a gooey caramel sauce for an indulgent treat.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup brewed coffee, cooled
- ½ cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 2 tablespoons brewed coffee
- 1 tablespoon powdered sugar
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In a separate large bowl, beat the softened butter and egg until light and fluffy. Add the brewed coffee, buttermilk, and vanilla extract, mixing well. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until smooth.
- Pour the cake batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool for 10 minutes in the pan, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- In a saucepan, combine the brown sugar, butter, and heavy cream. Stir constantly over medium heat until the mixture simmers. Let it simmer for about 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat, then stir in vanilla extract and salt. Set aside.
Notes
Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra touch of indulgence. Allow the cake to cool before adding the caramel sauce for better adhesion.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 40mg