Chocolate Fudge Cake with Salted Caramel Buttercream** Recipe
This Chocolate Fudge Cake with Salted Caramel Buttercream is everything a chocolate lover dreams about: ultra-moist, rich layers of deep cocoa cake wrapped in a cloud of silky, salty-sweet buttercream then finished with a glossy caramel drizzle. Whether you’re baking for a birthday, a special dinner, or just because you want to treat yourself, this showstopper is a celebration on a plate that never fails to impress and absolutely always disappears quickly!
Ingredients You’ll Need
It’s amazing how a handful of everyday ingredients can come together to create a dessert as impressive as the Chocolate Fudge Cake with Salted Caramel Buttercream. Each element is chosen for the way it enhances the flavor, texture, or color to make every bite truly unforgettable.
- All-purpose flour: The sturdy base gives the cake structure while keeping the crumb tender.
- Granulated sugar: Delivers the essential sweetness and also helps keep the cake moist.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: Deepens the chocolate flavor, creating that dark, sultry cake color.
- Baking soda and baking powder: These leaveners ensure the cake rises perfectly fluffy with just the right crumb.
- Salt: Just a teaspoon, but crucial for intensifying those rich chocolate flavors.
- Buttermilk: Adds a lovely tang and makes the cake exceptionally moist and tender.
- Strong brewed coffee, hot: Amplifies the cocoa flavor so the chocolate really shines. Don’t worry, you won’t taste the coffee!
- Vegetable oil: Locks in moisture for that melt-on-your-tongue texture.
- Large eggs: Help bind everything together and give the cake structure.
- Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavor and pairs beautifully with both chocolate and caramel.
- Unsalted butter, softened: The backbone of a light, fluffy buttercream that melts at the first bite.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens and smooths the salted caramel buttercream.
- Salt (for the buttercream): Balances the sweetness, so every element shines.
- Salted caramel sauce: Adds that signature salty-sweet flavor and makes the buttercream sumptuous and luxe.
- Heavy cream: Whips the buttercream into a cloud-like texture, ideal for swooping and swirling.
- Chocolate shavings or chunks: Optional, but oh-so-lovely for a final decadent flourish atop your masterpiece.
How to Make Chocolate Fudge Cake with Salted Caramel Buttercream
Step 1: Prepare and Preheat
First, set yourself up for baking success by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Then, grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans—this step ensures your cakes will release flawlessly, keeping those beautiful edges intact.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. It’s important to do this thoroughly so no pockets of cocoa or soda hide away; it guarantees an even rise and flavor in the finished layers.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, mix together buttermilk, hot coffee, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. The hot coffee melds with the cocoa, unlocking even more chocolate richness, while buttermilk and eggs ensure the cake bakes up soft and luscious.
Step 4: Bring Batter Together
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and whisk. The batter will be quite thin—don’t worry, that’s exactly what you want for a fudgy, tender crumb. Whisk until you have a glossy, smooth batter with no lumps.
Step 5: Bake
Divide the batter evenly between your prepared pans. Slide them into the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. When a toothpick comes out with just a few crumbs clinging to it, you know your cakes are ready. Let them cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then turn them onto a wire rack to finish cooling completely. Patience here means a perfect assembly later.
Step 6: Make the Salted Caramel Buttercream
Now, on to the frosting that makes this Chocolate Fudge Cake with Salted Caramel Buttercream totally legendary. Using a stand mixer or hand mixer, beat the softened butter on medium until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and salt, starting slow to avoid a sugar storm, then increase speed until fluffy. Drizzle in salted caramel sauce, heavy cream, and vanilla extract; beat until smooth, dreamy, and spreadable.
Step 7: Assemble the Cake
Set one cooled cake layer on a serving plate. Generously spread with salted caramel buttercream, then gently place the second layer on top. Frost the sides and top, swirling on extra caramel buttercream as you like. Finish with a drizzle of caramel sauce and a scattering of chocolate shavings or chunks for texture and glamor.
How to Serve Chocolate Fudge Cake with Salted Caramel Buttercream
Garnishes
The finishing touches can transform your cake from delicious to dazzling. Drizzle a little extra salted caramel sauce over the top, sprinkle with chocolate curls, or even a touch of flaky sea salt for extra sparkle. These simple garnishes perfectly complement the deep flavors of the Chocolate Fudge Cake with Salted Caramel Buttercream, making each slice look bakery-worthy.
Side Dishes
Pair your cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for cool creaminess, or serve with a handful of fresh berries to cut through the richness. A mug of strong black coffee or a tall glass of cold milk also makes every bite of Chocolate Fudge Cake with Salted Caramel Buttercream even more memorable.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to wow your guests, try serving individual slices topped with a swirl of whipped cream and a small piece of homemade honeycomb or chocolate bark. Or cut the cake into cubes and serve as part of a decadent dessert platter with fruits and caramel dipping sauce—such a fun way to share Chocolate Fudge Cake with Salted Caramel Buttercream at parties or potlucks!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cake keeps beautifully for up to three days. Store slices or the whole cake in an airtight container at room temperature, or in the fridge if your kitchen’s warm. Just let it come to room temperature before serving so the buttercream gets soft and luscious again.
Freezing
Want to enjoy Chocolate Fudge Cake with Salted Caramel Buttercream for weeks to come? Freeze individual slices or an unfrosted cake by wrapping tightly in plastic wrap and placing in a zip-top bag. The buttercream can be frozen separately in a sealed container. Thaw everything in the fridge overnight before assembling or serving.
Reheating
If you love a warm, gooey dessert, pop a slice in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. The buttercream gets delightfully soft and the salted caramel flavor really comes alive. Just be careful not to overheat or the buttercream may melt.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought salted caramel sauce for the buttercream?
Absolutely! While homemade salted caramel gives a richer flavor, a good-quality store-bought caramel sauce saves time and works beautifully. Just make sure it’s thick and has that wonderful salty note.
What if I don’t have buttermilk?
No problem! You can make a quick buttermilk substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon lemon juice or white vinegar. Let it sit for five minutes, then use as directed in your Chocolate Fudge Cake with Salted Caramel Buttercream recipe.
Can this cake be made gluten-free?
Yes! Swap the all-purpose flour for a reliable gluten-free blend that contains xanthan gum. Keep an eye on your bake time, as gluten-free cakes sometimes need a few extra minutes.
How do I get perfectly smooth buttercream?
Make sure your butter is soft (but not melted), sift your powdered sugar, and beat the mixture until it’s silky. If your buttercream is too thick, add a little extra cream; too thin, add more powdered sugar. The salted caramel should be at room temperature as well for easy blending.
Can I make this cake ahead for a special occasion?
Definitely! You can bake the cake layers a day or two in advance, wrap them well, and store at room temperature or refrigerate. The assembled Chocolate Fudge Cake with Salted Caramel Buttercream also keeps well for a day, making it perfect for parties and celebrations.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a dessert that’s both show-stopping and soul-satisfying, this Chocolate Fudge Cake with Salted Caramel Buttercream is it. Each bite is an ode to rich chocolate and salted caramel happiness. Go ahead and treat yourself and those you love—after just one slice, you’ll understand why this recipe has become everyone’s new favorite.
