Description
Calling all coffee lovers! This decadent layer cake features fluffy coffee-infused cake, creamy caramel buttercream, and a golden cascade of gooey caramel on top. ✨ Rich, sweet, and with a hint of espresso, it’s the ultimate centerpiece for birthdays, celebrations, or a cozy dessert night in. One bite and you’re hooked!
Ingredients
Coffee Cake Layers:
• ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1½ cups brown sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 tbsp coffee extract (or 2 tsp espresso powder)
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2½ tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ cup brewed coffee (cooled)
• ½ cup milk
Caramel Buttercream:
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup thick caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• 2½ cups powdered sugar
• ½ tsp vanilla extract
Topping:
• Extra caramel sauce, for drizzling
• Mini chocolate chips or curls (optional)
• Pinch of sea salt (optional)
Instructions
1️⃣ Bake the Cake Layers:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line three 8-inch round cake pans.
Cream butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs and coffee extract.
In another bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt. Alternate adding dry mix and brewed coffee + milk to the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined.
Divide batter into pans and bake for 22–25 minutes. Cool completely.
2️⃣ Make the Buttercream:
Beat butter until fluffy. Add caramel sauce and vanilla. Gradually mix in powdered sugar until smooth and spreadable. Adjust consistency with a splash of milk if needed.
3️⃣ Assemble the Cake:
Place one cooled cake layer on a serving plate. Spread caramel buttercream on top. Repeat with remaining layers. Frost the outside of the cake or leave semi-naked.
4️⃣ Decorate:
Drizzle caramel over the top, allowing it to drip down the sides. Garnish with mini chocolate chips, curls, or sea salt for flair.
Notes
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Coffee Options: Use strong brewed coffee for deeper flavor, or espresso for intensity. Avoid instant coffee unless using espresso powder.
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Caramel Tip: For a thicker drizzle, let your caramel cool for 10–15 minutes before pouring. Homemade or store-bought works.
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Make-Ahead: Cake layers can be made 1–2 days ahead and stored wrapped in the fridge. Frosting can be made the day before and re-whipped before use.
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Decorating Ideas: Top with sea salt flakes, chocolate curls, or espresso beans for a gourmet finish.
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Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day, or refrigerate for up to 4 days. Bring to room temp before serving for optimal texture.
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Freezing: Freeze unfrosted layers or individual frosted slices wrapped tightly. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then let sit out before serving.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 135–150g)
- Calories: 480–510 kcal
- Sugar: 45g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 58g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Keywords: Layer Cakes, Coffee Desserts, Caramel Recipes, Showstopper Cakes, Birthday Cake Ideas, Moist Cake Recipes, Vegetarian Desserts, Buttercream Frosting Cakes, Special Occasion Bakes, Gourmet Bakery-Style Cakes