Imagine a cake so decadent it should come with a warning label. Moist coffee-infused layers, oozing caramel, and a texture that’s somewhere between a cloud and a hug. This isn’t just dessert—it’s a mood.
If you’ve ever wanted to impress guests, win over your in-laws, or just treat yourself like royalty, this is your golden ticket. And no, you don’t need to be a baking pro. Ready to make magic?
Let’s go.
Why This Recipe Slaps
This cake combines two heavyweight flavors—coffee and caramel—into one knockout dessert. The coffee adds depth, the caramel brings the gooey sweetness, and the texture? Pure bliss.
It’s like your favorite latte decided to transform into a cake. Plus, it’s easy to customize (more on that later). Whether you’re serving it at a party or eating it straight from the pan at 2 AM (no judgment), it’s a winner.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar (for that caramel vibe)
- 2 tsp instant coffee granules (or 1 tbsp espresso powder)
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup buttermilk (or whole milk in a pinch)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade, we won’t tell)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
Pro tip: Line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a bowl, whisk flour, sugars, coffee granules, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. No lumps allowed.
- Combine wet ingredients: In another bowl, beat eggs, melted butter, buttermilk, and vanilla. Pretend you’re making a potion.
- Bring it together: Gradually add dry ingredients to wet, mixing until just combined.
Overmixing = tough cake. Don’t do it.
- Layer the magic: Pour half the batter into the pan, drizzle with ¼ cup caramel, then top with remaining batter. Swirl lightly with a knife.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean (mostly—it’s okay if it’s a little fudgy).
- Drown it in caramel: Let the cake cool for 10 minutes, then pour the remaining caramel on top.
Resist eating it immediately (or don’t).
How to Store This Masterpiece
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temp for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 5 days (microwave slices for 10 seconds to revive the gooeyness). You can also freeze it for up to 3 months—just wrap it tightly in plastic and foil.
Why This Cake is Basically a Superfood (Kidding, But Not Really)
Okay, it’s not health food, but it does have perks.
The coffee gives you a slight caffeine boost (great for dessert-induced comas), and the caramel? Well, happiness counts as a benefit. Plus, sharing this cake will make you wildly popular.
You’re welcome.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the batter: Gluten development = dense cake. Mix until just combined.
- Using cold ingredients: Eggs and buttermilk should be room temp for even baking.
- Skimping on caramel: This cake thrives on excess. Don’t hold back.
- Overbaking: The toothpick test should have some crumbs.
Dry cake = sad cake.
Swaps and Tweaks
No buttermilk? Use 1 cup milk + 1 tbsp lemon juice. Vegan?
Swap eggs for flax eggs and butter for coconut oil. Not a coffee fan? Replace it with cocoa powder for a chocolate-caramel twist.
Caramel too sweet? Try a salted caramel sauce for balance.
FAQs
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely. Bake it a day before, store it airtight, and add extra caramel before serving.
It actually tastes better the next day (if it lasts that long).
Why did my caramel sink to the bottom?
You might’ve over-swirled or used too-thin caramel. Thicker sauce stays put. Still tastes amazing, though.
Can I use brewed coffee instead of granules?
Nope—brewed coffee adds too much liquid.
Stick to granules or espresso powder for concentrated flavor.
My cake stuck to the pan. Help?
Grease the pan and use parchment paper. If it’s too late, scrape it out and call it a “rustic” presentation.
Final Thoughts
This gooey coffee caramel cake is the dessert equivalent of a mic drop.
It’s easy, indulgent, and guaranteed to steal the show. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or just treating yourself, this recipe delivers. Now go forth and bake like a boss.