There’s something incredibly comforting about the warm notes of brown butter wafting through the kitchen, instantly transporting you to a cozy bakery on a Sunday morning. I recently decided to create a dessert that encapsulates this nostalgic aroma, leading me to a luscious Brown Butter Caramel Cake. The rich, nutty flavors of brown butter merge beautifully with a gooey homemade caramel filling, resulting in a cake that’s not just a treat, but a sweet memory waiting to happen.
Whether you’re hosting friends, celebrating a special occasion, or simply indulging after a long day, this cake meets every sweet craving with its moist crumb and decadent cream cheese frosting. What’s more, it’s surprisingly easy to whip up, making it the perfect escape from the monotony of fast food desserts. So, let’s discover how to elevate your baking game and bring a slice of homemade bliss to your table!
Why Love This Brown Butter Caramel Cake?
Indulgent Flavor: Each slice brings delightful notes of nutty brown butter paired with gooey homemade caramel that create an explosion of taste in your mouth.
Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and a straightforward process, this cake can be made with minimal effort, making it a perfect weeknight treat or showstopper for guests.
Versatile Options: Want to mix things up? Substitute the caramel sauce with store-bought or try different frosting flavors; the possibilities are endless!
Bake Like a Pro: Impress friends and family with this bakery-worthy dessert that’s surprisingly easy to master, bringing that café experience right to your kitchen.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a special celebration or a cozy night in, this cake is guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth, making it an ideal choice for any gathering.
Satisfying Texture: The moist crumb combined with the creamy icing and sweet caramel filling is a textural delight that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Brown Butter Caramel Cake Ingredients
For the Cake
• Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and enhances flavor; substitute with salted butter if preferred, reducing added salt.
• All-Purpose Flour – Forms the structure of the cake; can be swapped with a gluten-free blend for a lighter option.
• Baking Powder – The key leavening agent; do not substitute, as it affects the cake’s rise and texture.
• Baking Soda – Works with acidic ingredients to help the cake rise; best when combined with baking powder.
• Salt – Enhances the flavor of the cake; you may reduce this if using salted butter.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cake while adding moisture; adjust to taste for your preferred sweetness.
• Brown Sugar – Adds depth and caramel-like flavor; dark brown sugar can be used for a more intense taste.
• Eggs – Crucial for binding and moisture; substitute with flax or applesauce for a vegan version.
• Vanilla Extract – Boosts the cake’s flavor; stick with pure extract for the best results.
• Buttermilk – Adds tenderness and a tangy flavor; can be substituted with whole milk plus 1 tbsp vinegar or lemon juice.
For the Caramel Sauce
• Heavy Cream – Essential for creating a smooth caramel; coconut cream makes a great dairy-free substitute.
• Brown Sugar – Works with butter to create that perfect caramel sauce; ensure to melt until bubbling for the right texture.
For the Frosting
• Powdered Sugar – Provides sweetness and structure to the frosting; granulated sugar can work in a pinch, but it won’t be as smooth.
• Cream Cheese – Adds richness and flavor to the frosting; bring it to room temperature for easier mixing.
• Remaining Brown Butter – Enhances the flavor in the frosting; ensure it’s cooled but still pourable for easy incorporation.
Dive into your baking adventure with this Brown Butter Caramel Cake, and prepare for a scrumptious treat that will wow everyone at your table!
How to Make Brown Butter Caramel Cake
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Brown the Butter: In a saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Stir it frequently until it turns a deep golden brown and emits a nutty aroma—about 5-7 minutes.
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Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt, then set this dry mixture aside for later.
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Mix Batter: In a mixing bowl, combine the browned butter with granulated and brown sugars. Whip until fluffy, then add in the eggs, vanilla extract, and buttermilk. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until the batter is smooth and well-combined.
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Bake: Pour the batter into a greased 9×9 inch baking pan. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 35-38 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
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Make Caramel: In a saucepan, melt together butter and brown sugar over medium heat until it starts bubbling. Stir in heavy cream, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes, then allow it to cool slightly before using.
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Prepare Frosting: In a bowl, whip the remaining browned butter until creamy. Add room temperature cream cheese and sift in the powdered sugar. Mix until you achieve a fluffy, spreadable frosting.
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Assemble Cake: Once the cake has completely cooled, poke holes across the top using a skewer. Pipe the cooled caramel into these holes, then frost the top generously with the cream cheese frosting. Finally, drizzle any leftover caramel over the top for extra sweetness!
Optional: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Brown Butter Caramel Cake?
There’s nothing quite like the joy of finishing a delightful meal with a decadent dessert like this cake, filling the air with the irresistible aroma of caramel.
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a cloud-like texture that complements the cake’s rich flavors.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy coldness of vanilla ice cream balances the warm, gooey caramel beautifully, enhancing every bite.
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Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or raspberries provide a refreshing tartness that cuts through the sweetness of the cake, creating a delightful contrast.
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Coffee: Pairing this cake with a warm cup of coffee intensifies the nutty brown butter flavors, transforming your dessert into a cozy café experience.
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Chocolate Ganache: A drizzle of rich chocolate ganache adds an extra layer of indulgence, perfect for those chocolate lovers out there!
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Caramel Sauce: Serve with additional warm caramel sauce to drizzle on top for an extra touch of sweetness and a visual treat that looks simply irresistible.
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Nutty Brownies: For a decadent dessert spread, serve alongside fudgy brownies with walnuts, bringing more texture and layers of flavors to the table.
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Espresso Martini: For an adult twist, a chilled espresso martini pairs stunningly well, creating a luxurious ending to your dessert.
Make Ahead Options
If you’re short on time during the week, this Brown Butter Caramel Cake is perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the cake batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients and storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The caramel sauce can also be made ahead and kept in the fridge for up to 3 days, ensuring it’s ready when you need it. When you’re ready to bake, simply pour the chilled batter into the pan and proceed with the baking instructions. To maintain quality, ensure the cake cools completely before poking holes and adding the caramel. This way, you’ll have a stunning cake with minimal effort when it’s time to impress your family or guests!
Brown Butter Caramel Cake Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize your delightful cake with these delicious twists!
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Store-Bought Caramel: Swap homemade caramel for a convenient store-bought option for an easy shortcut without sacrificing flavor.
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Vegan Delight: Use flax eggs and coconut cream for a vegan-friendly cake that retains the same moistness without animal products.
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Nutty Crumble: Stir in chopped pecans or walnuts into the batter to add a delightful crunch and extra richness to every bite.
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Frosting Flavors: Try a chocolate or lemon cream cheese frosting instead for a fun flavor twist that pairs beautifully with caramel.
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Spiced Up: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm, spicy note that complements the caramel beautifully.
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Coconut Cream: Substitute heavy cream in the caramel sauce with coconut cream for a tropical twist that adds a rich, creamy texture.
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Caramel Drizzle: For extra sweetness, drizzle homemade caramel sauce over the finished cake before serving, adding a gooey touch.
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Fruity Addition: Incorporate fresh diced apples or pears into the batter for a moist cake that’s bursting with fruit flavor alongside the caramel.
Expert Tips for Brown Butter Caramel Cake
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Brown Butter Perfectly: Ensure you watch the butter closely while browning; too much heat can lead to burnt butter, affecting your cake’s flavor.
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Take out your eggs, buttermilk, and cream cheese ahead of time. Room temperature ingredients mix better, creating a smoother batter.
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Cool the Caramel: Allow the caramel sauce to cool before using it in the cake. This prevents it from being too runny and ensures it stays nicely in the holes you poke.
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Moisture Matters: For an exceptionally moist Brown Butter Caramel Cake, let it rest for a few minutes before frosting; this allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Texture Tips: Incorporate chopped nuts or chocolate chips into the batter for added texture and flavor depth. This little trick transforms the cake into a delightful showstopper!
Storage Tips for Brown Butter Caramel Cake
Room Temperature: Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain its moist texture and delicious flavor.
Fridge: If you want to keep the cake fresh for longer, refrigerate it, where it will stay good for up to a week. Make sure it’s well-covered to prevent drying out.
Freezer: For extended storage, freeze the cake (unfrosted works best) in a tightly sealed freezer bag or wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
Reheating: To enjoy a slice warm, gently reheat in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds. This brings back the soft, gooey texture of the Brown Butter Caramel Cake.
Brown Butter Caramel Cake Recipe FAQs
What’s the best way to select brown butter for this cake?
Absolutely! When making brown butter, choose high-quality unsalted butter for the best flavor. Look for butters with a yellow hue and a pleasant, creamy smell. It should melt uniformly and begin to brown in a medium saucepan without any excess water. Pay attention to the scent as it cooks; a nutty aroma signals it’s ready.
How should I store the leftover Brown Butter Caramel Cake?
For the best results, keep your leftover cake in an airtight container. At room temperature, it remains fresh for up to 3 days. If you want to extend its shelf life, refrigerate it covered for about a week, but enjoy it at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.
Can I freeze Brown Butter Caramel Cake?
Yes, you can! To freeze, it’s best to wrap the unfrosted cake in plastic wrap, then place it in a tightly sealed freezer bag. This method preserves its moisture and flavor. The cake will last for up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and decorate as desired.
What if my caramel sauce is too runny?
If your caramel sauce turns out runny, don’t worry! To fix this, return it to medium-low heat and let it simmer for a few more minutes until it thickens. Stir frequently and watch closely to avoid burning. If it’s still too thin, you can whisk in a spoonful of cornstarch dissolved in water to thicken it further easily.
Are there any allergy considerations with this recipe?
Certainly! This Brown Butter Caramel Cake contains dairy and eggs, so it’s important to consider allergies. For a dairy-free option, you can substitute butter with a plant-based alternative and use coconut cream for the caramel. If you’re looking for egg substitutes, flax eggs or unsweetened applesauce work well in this recipe and maintain moisture!
Irresistible Brown Butter Caramel Cake for Sweet Tooth Cravings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Stir it frequently until it turns a deep golden brown and emits a nutty aroma—about 5-7 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt; set this dry mixture aside for later.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the browned butter with granulated and brown sugars. Whip until fluffy, then add in the eggs, vanilla extract, and buttermilk. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until the batter is smooth and well-combined.
- Pour the batter into a greased 9x9 inch baking pan. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 35-38 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- In a saucepan, melt together butter and brown sugar over medium heat until it starts bubbling. Stir in heavy cream, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes, then allow it to cool slightly before using.
- In a bowl, whip the remaining browned butter until creamy. Add room temperature cream cheese and sift in the powdered sugar. Mix until you achieve a fluffy, spreadable frosting.
- Once the cake has completely cooled, poke holes across the top using a skewer. Pipe the cooled caramel into these holes, then frost the top generously with the cream cheese frosting. Finally, drizzle any leftover caramel over the top for extra sweetness!