SALTED CARAMEL CHOCOLATE FUDGE CAKE RECIPE

If you’re looking for a dessert that truly wows, then my SALTED CARAMEL CHOCOLATE FUDGE CAKE RECIPE is just what you need! This cake has a rich, moist chocolate base that pairs perfectly with a decadent chocolate caramel fudge frosting. It’s not just any cake; it’s layered with salted caramel goodness that makes each bite a celebration of flavor. Whether it’s a special occasion or just a cozy night in with family, this cake is sure to impress everyone at the table.

This recipe has become a favorite in my home because it combines simplicity with indulgence. You can whip it up for birthdays, holidays, or even just to brighten up a busy weeknight. Trust me, once you taste this delightful creation, you’ll understand why it holds such a special place in my heart.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistibly delicious: The combination of chocolate and salted caramel creates a symphony of flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing.
• Easy to make: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, baking this cake is an enjoyable experience, even for beginners.
• Perfect for sharing: This recipe yields 12-14 servings, making it ideal for gatherings or potlucks where you want to spread the joy.
• Make ahead option: You can prepare the cake layers in advance and assemble them when you’re ready to serve.
• Customizable: Feel free to get creative with toppings or add-ins to make this cake your own!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully in this SALTED CARAMEL CHOCOLATE FUDGE CAKE RECIPE. Don’t worry; most of these items are kitchen staples!

For the Cake

• 2 cups all purpose flour (260g), sifted
• 1.5 tsp baking powder
• 1.5 tsp baking soda
• 1 cup granulated sugar (200g)
• ⅔ cup light brown sugar (135g)
• 1 tsp salt
• 3 large eggs, ideally room temp
• ⅔ cup vegetable oil (133g)
• ⅓ cup buttermilk (80g) – mix ⅓ cup whole milk (80g) + 1 teaspoon vinegar to make your own
• 1 cup sour cream (240g), ideally room temp
• ¾ cup cocoa powder, Dutch Processed preferred (75g)
• 2 tsp instant coffee
• ¾ cup boiling water (180g)

For the Fudge Frosting

• 1 cup granulated sugar (200g)
• 5 tbsp unsalted butter (70g)
• ½ cup heavy cream, warmed up (120g)
• ¾ tsp salt
• 1 ½ tsp vanilla
• 200g dark chocolate (70%)

For the Cream Cheese Layer

• 8 oz cream cheese, room temp (226g)
• ⅓ cup cocoa powder (33g)
• 1 cup powdered sugar (100g)
• ½ cup salted caramel sauce from above
• 1 cup heavy cream, cold (240g)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Here are some ideas to personalize your cake:

• Add nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans can bring extra crunch and flavor to your layers.
• Swap the frosting: Try a vanilla buttercream instead of chocolate fudge for a different twist.
• Use different chocolates: Experiment with milk chocolate or white chocolate for unique flavor profiles.
• Add fruit: Layer fresh raspberries or strawberries between the cake layers for a fruity surprise.

How to Make SALTED CARAMEL CHOCOLATE FUDGE CAKE RECIPE

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two round cake pans. In one bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, and salt. In another bowl, mix together the eggs, vegetable oil, buttermilk, sour cream, cocoa powder, instant coffee, and boiling water. Combine both mixtures until smooth—this will ensure you have a wonderfully rich batter.

Step 2: Bake the Cake Layers

Pour your batter evenly into the prepared pans. Bake in your preheated oven for about 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let them cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks—this helps prevent them from sticking!

Step 3: Make the Chocolate Fudge Frosting

While your cakes cool down, let’s create that dreamy frosting! In a saucepan over medium heat, combine granulated sugar and butter until melted and bubbly. Stir in warmed heavy cream carefully—this is where magic happens! Add salt and vanilla before mixing in dark chocolate until smooth.

Step 4: Prepare Cream Cheese Layer

In another bowl, beat room temperature cream cheese until smooth. Gradually mix in cocoa powder and powdered sugar until well combined. Fold in half of your cooled salted caramel sauce for that extra layer of flavor.

Step 5: Assemble Your Cake

Once everything has cooled completely—patience is key here! Place one layer on your serving plate and spread half of the cream cheese mixture on top. Drizzle some salted caramel sauce over it too! Repeat with the second layer before spreading that luscious fudge frosting all around.

And there you have it—a gorgeous SALTED CARAMEL CHOCOLATE FUDGE CAKE that’s sure to be loved by everyone who tries it! Enjoy every bite while making beautiful memories around the table.

Pro Tips for Making SALTED CARAMEL CHOCOLATE FUDGE CAKE RECIPE

Creating the perfect Salted Caramel Chocolate Fudge Cake can be a delightful experience, and with a few helpful tips, you can elevate your baking game!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing your eggs, buttermilk, and sour cream to room temperature ensures even mixing and helps the cake rise beautifully.

• Sift your dry ingredients: Sifting flour and cocoa powder not only removes lumps but also incorporates air, making your cake lighter and fluffier.

• Don’t skip the coffee: Adding instant coffee deepens the chocolate flavor without making the cake taste like coffee; it’s a little secret that makes a big difference.

• Cool completely before frosting: Allowing your cake layers to cool completely prevents the frosting from melting and ensures a beautiful finish when you stack them.

• Make extra salted caramel sauce: Having extra on hand is great for drizzling over slices when serving, adding an extra touch of indulgence!

How to Serve SALTED CARAMEL CHOCOLATE FUDGE CAKE RECIPE

Presenting your Salted Caramel Chocolate Fudge Cake in an appealing way can enhance the overall dessert experience. Here are some ideas to make it look as good as it tastes!

Garnishes

• Sea salt flakes: A sprinkle of sea salt flakes on top intensifies the salted caramel flavor and adds visual appeal.
• Chocolate shavings: Use a vegetable peeler on dark chocolate to create delicate shavings that add elegance to each slice.
• Fresh berries: Raspberries or strawberries provide a pop of color and a refreshing contrast to the rich chocolate flavor.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: The creamy texture and classic vanilla flavor complement the rich chocolate while adding a delightful touch of coldness.
• Whipped coconut cream: For a dairy-free option, whipped coconut cream pairs perfectly with the cake’s sweetness, providing a light finish.
• Fruit salad: A vibrant fruit salad adds freshness and balances out the richness of the cake, making it an ideal side dish.
• Coffee or herbal tea: Serving with a warm beverage enhances the flavors of chocolate and caramel while providing a cozy atmosphere for dessert.

With these serving suggestions, your Salted Caramel Chocolate Fudge Cake will not only be delicious but also visually stunning! Enjoy sharing this scrumptious creation with friends and family.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Salted Caramel Chocolate Fudge Cake is perfect for meal prep and can be made ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy it whenever a sweet craving strikes! Here’s how to store your delicious creation properly.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• If you prefer, refrigerate the cake for up to a week; just be sure to cover it well to keep it from drying out.
• For best results, keep the salted caramel sauce separate until you’re ready to serve.

Freezing

• To freeze the cake, wrap each slice in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Thaw the slices overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating

• If you’d like your cake warm, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place slices on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Alternatively, warm individual pieces in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds.

FAQs

Here are some common questions readers might have about this recipe!

Can I make this Salted Caramel Chocolate Fudge Cake Recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup. Just ensure that the blend contains xanthan gum to maintain the right texture.

How do I store leftovers from my Salted Caramel Chocolate Fudge Cake Recipe?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerated for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing individual slices.

What can I use instead of buttermilk in this Salted Caramel Chocolate Fudge Cake Recipe?

If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, simply mix ⅓ cup of whole milk with 1 teaspoon of vinegar or lemon juice and let it sit for about 5 minutes. This will mimic the acidity of buttermilk perfectly!

Can I use dairy-free substitutes in this Salted Caramel Chocolate Fudge Cake Recipe?

Yes! You can replace sour cream with a dairy-free yogurt and use plant-based butter and heavy cream alternatives as well. Just check that these substitutes match your dietary needs.

Final Thoughts

I hope you feel inspired to whip up this delightful Salted Caramel Chocolate Fudge Cake! It’s moist, rich, and full of flavor—a true showstopper for any occasion. Enjoy every moment of creating this dessert, and don’t forget to share your delicious results! Happy baking!