This Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake is a delightful dessert that combines rich coffee flavor and sweet caramel in a decadent, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Perfect for any occasion, this cake is an indulgent treat for coffee lovers and will impress your friends and family with its unique blend of flavors.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich Flavor Profile: The combination of brewed coffee and caramel creates a deep, satisfying taste that coffee enthusiasts will adore.
- Easy to Make: With simple steps and readily available ingredients, you can whip up this delicious cake without any hassle.
- Versatile Dessert: Serve it at parties, family gatherings, or even as an afternoon snack with your favorite beverage.
- Decadent Texture: The gooey caramel sauce drizzled over the soft cake ensures every bite is rich and satisfying.
- Impressive Presentation: This cake not only tastes amazing but also looks beautiful when served, making it a standout dessert.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the baking process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 9×9-inch baking pan
- Mixing bowls (medium and large)
- Whisk
- Electric mixer or hand mixer
- Saucepan
Importance of Each Tool
- 9×9-inch baking pan: This size allows for even baking and perfect portion sizes for serving.
- Mixing bowls: Having separate bowls helps keep wet and dry ingredients organized for easy mixing.
- Whisk: A whisk helps incorporate air into your batter, resulting in a lighter texture.
- Saucepan: Essential for making the caramel sauce, allowing for controlled heating.
Ingredients
This Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake includes the following 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
How to Make Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Make the Cake Batter
In a medium bowl:
Whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
In a large bowl:
Beat together the softened butter and egg until light and fluffy.
Add the brewed coffee, buttermilk, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir until smooth.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
Pour the cake batter into your prepared pan. Bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 4: Prepare the Caramel Sauce
While the cake cools:
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine brown sugar, butter, and heavy cream.
Stir constantly until it comes to a simmer. Let simmer for about 3–4 minutes while stirring frequently until thickened.
Remove from heat. Stir in vanilla extract and salt before setting aside to cool slightly.
Now you’re ready to serve your delicious Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake! Enjoy each rich bite with friends or savor it alone as a well-deserved treat.
How to Serve Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake
Serving your Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake can elevate the experience of this decadent dessert. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet night in, these suggestions will enhance your cake’s rich flavors.
Pair with Ice Cream
- Vanilla ice cream: The creamy texture and subtle sweetness complement the coffee and caramel beautifully.
- Coffee-flavored ice cream: Intensifies the coffee flavor, making it a perfect match for coffee lovers.
Drizzle Extra Caramel Sauce
- Homemade caramel: Add an extra drizzle of warm caramel sauce on top for an indulgent touch.
- Chocolate sauce: A rich chocolate drizzle adds a delightful contrast to the caramel sweetness.
Add Fresh Berries
- Raspberries: Their tartness cuts through the sweetness of the cake and adds a pop of color.
- Strawberries: Sliced strawberries bring freshness and balance to each bite.
Serve with Whipped Cream
- Light whipped cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream enhances the cake’s richness without overpowering it.
- Flavored whipped cream: Consider adding vanilla or coffee extract for extra flavor depth.
Enjoy with a Cup of Coffee
- Brewed coffee: Pairing your slice with a hot cup of brewed coffee enhances the cake’s coffee essence.
- Espresso: For a more robust pairing, serve it alongside a shot of espresso.
How to Perfect Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake
To achieve the best results with your Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake, follow these helpful tips.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh eggs and real butter make a significant difference in flavor and texture.
- Don’t overmix the batter: Mix just until combined to keep the cake light and fluffy.
- Check oven temperature: Ensure your oven is properly calibrated; an inaccurate temperature can affect baking time.
- Cool completely before serving: Allowing the cake to cool ensures that it holds its shape and allows flavors to meld perfectly.
Best Side Dishes for Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake
Pairing side dishes with your Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake can create a delightful dining experience. Here are some great options:
- Fruit salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides freshness that complements the richness of the cake.
- Cheese platter: Include soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese for a savory contrast to the sweet dessert.
- Chocolate-covered pretzels: The salty crunch pairs well with the gooey sweetness of caramel.
- Nutty granola: A scoop of nutty granola adds texture and an earthy flavor that balances the dessert.
- Chai tea: The warm spices in chai tea enhance the coffee notes in the cake beautifully.
- Pecan pie bars: For those who love desserts, these bars offer another sweet option while maintaining a nutty flavor profile.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking a Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake can be tricky, but avoiding common mistakes will lead to a delicious outcome.
- Skipping the Cooling Time: Allowing the cake to cool in the pan for too short a time can cause it to fall apart. Make sure to let it cool for at least 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.
- Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Baking is a science, and inaccurate measurements can ruin your cake. Use measuring cups and spoons specifically designed for baking to ensure precision.
- Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much can create a dense cake. Blend your wet and dry ingredients until just combined for that light, fluffy texture.
- Ignoring Oven Temperature: An improperly preheated oven can affect baking time and texture. Always preheat your oven thoroughly before placing your cake inside.
- Using Cold Ingredients: Cold butter or eggs can affect how well they mix into the batter. Always make sure your ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake in an airtight container.
- It will stay fresh for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake
- Wrap individual slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.
Reheating Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the cake on a baking sheet for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 20-30 seconds, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
- Stovetop: Place a slice in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed through, about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake.
Can I use decaf coffee in the Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake?
You can definitely use decaf coffee instead of regular coffee. The flavor will still shine through!
What if I don’t have buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by mixing ½ cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
How do I know when my cake is done baking?
To check if your Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake is ready, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, it’s done!
Can I customize the flavor of this cake?
Absolutely! Feel free to add chocolate chips, nuts, or spices like cinnamon for an extra twist on this delightful recipe.
Final Thoughts
This Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake is not just indulgent but also versatile. You can easily customize it with different flavors or toppings. Try this recipe today and experience the delightful combination of coffee and caramel that will surely satisfy any sweet tooth!
Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake
Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake is a show-stopping dessert that beautifully marries the robust flavors of coffee with the sweet richness of caramel. This moist cake features a delightful gooey texture, making it an irresistible treat for coffee lovers and dessert enthusiasts alike. Perfect for any gathering or as a comforting indulgence at home, this cake is not just delicious but also visually appealing, ensuring it will be the centerpiece of your dessert table. Serve it warm, drizzled with extra caramel or paired with ice cream for a decadent experience that will leave everyone craving more.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 9 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
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 (for caramel)
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×9-inch baking pan by greasing and flouring it.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a large bowl, beat softened butter and egg until fluffy. Add brewed coffee, buttermilk, and vanilla; mix well.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture until smooth. Pour batter into prepared pan.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool in pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- For the caramel sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine brown sugar, butter, and heavy cream. Stir until simmering; cook for about 3–4 minutes until thickened. Stir in vanilla extract and salt.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (70g)
- Calories: 330
- Sugar: 32g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
