Introduction to Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake
I’m a mom on the go so I know all about valuing every minute, especially when you want something sweet and delicious. Enter my Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake! This cake marries beautiful notes of rich, strong coffee with an elegant finish of sweet, delightful caramel; the perfect dessert for any and every occasion. If you wish to entertain or just have a quiet night at home this is your fast solution. And so you take in something sweet but it’s also that tide of comfort like a warm hug that’s going to brighten your day!
Why You’ll Love This Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake
This gooey coffee caramel cake is all about taste and convenience which is so suitable for our hectic lives. Its assembly can be fast, allowing you to prepare it within an hour. Sensationally satisfying with a rich coffee taste and scrumptious caramel the perfect ending for any sweet tooth. Well, pretty much a sure-fire winner with ‘the people,’ who wants a dessert that’s over-the-top indulgent but easy to make?
Ingredients for Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake
This cake is as delightful as it is simple, with ingredients that are easy to find in your pantry. Let’s take a peek at what you’ll need!
- All-purpose flour: The foundation of the cake, giving it body and structure.
- Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness; it also helps the cake rise and achieve a golden crust.
- Baking powder: A leavening agent that ensures your cake doesn’t turn into a brick!
- Baking soda: Works hand in hand with baking powder to create just the right lift.
- Salt: Elevates the flavors, making every bite pop.
- Unsalted butter: Provides a rich flavor and moist texture. Remember to let it soften before mixing!
- Large egg: Binds the ingredients together and contributes to the cake’s tenderness.
- Brewed coffee: Adds a deep, rich flavor, elevating this cake beyond the ordinary. For extra kick, try using espresso!
- Buttermilk: Gives the cake a slight tang and helps keep it moist. If you don’t have it on hand, mix regular milk with a splash of vinegar instead!
- Vanilla extract: The magic ingredient that enhances all the other flavors.
- Brown sugar (for caramel sauce): This adds a deep, molasses-like sweetness, perfect for the gooey caramel.
- Heavy cream (for caramel sauce): Makes the caramel velvety and luxurious.
- Pinch of salt (for caramel sauce): Balances the sweetness of the caramel, making it utterly irresistible.
- Powdered sugar (for coffee drizzle): Helps thicken the coffee drizzle while adding a touch of sweetness.
For specific measurements, be sure to check the bottom of the article where they are listed for easy printing. Happy baking!
How to Make Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake
Now comes the fun part! Making this Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake is easier than you might think. Follow these simple steps, and soon enough, you’ll be savoring a slice of heaven!
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, grab your 9×9-inch baking pan. Grease it with a little butter and then dust it with flour. Alternatively, line it with parchment paper to ensure easy removal. A well-prepared pan makes all the difference!
Step 2: Prepare the Batter
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. These dry ingredients are the backbone of your cake. Now, in a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and egg until fluffy. This helps create a light texture. Next, add the brewed coffee, buttermilk, and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
Gradually add your dry mixture to this wet concoction. Stir gently until you can no longer see any flour. The mixture should be creamy and dreamy!
Step 3: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan. Spread it out evenly to ensure uniform cooking. Pop it in the oven for about 25 to 30 minutes. To check if it’s done, insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, your cake is ready! It should be lightly golden and smell divine!
Step 4: Make the Caramel Sauce
While the cake cools, it’s caramel time! In a saucepan, combine the packed brown sugar, unsalted butter, and heavy cream over medium heat. Stir constantly until the mixture starts to simmer. Let it simmer for about 3-4 minutes, until it thickens into gooey perfection. Now, remove it from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. This component balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors of your cake.
And there you have it! A fantastically easy recipe to savor and share!
Tips for Success
- Always measure your flour properly; spoon it into the measuring cup instead of scooping.
- Let your butter soften naturally for a better texture in the batter.
- For richer caramel, allow the sauce to reach a deep golden color before removing it from heat.
- Store leftover cake in an airtight container to keep it moist.
- Enjoy it warm, topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream!
Equipment Needed
- 9×9-inch baking pan: A versatile size, but feel free to use an 8×8-inch pan if that’s what you have.
- Mixing bowls: A medium bowl for dry ingredients and a large one for wet.
- Whisk: To blend ingredients smoothly; a fork works too in a pinch.
- Saucepan: For your delicious caramel sauce process.
- Toothpick: Essential for checking cake doneness; a skewer also does the job!
Variations
- Nutty Delight: Add chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter for a crunchy texture that complements the gooeyness.
- Chocolate Lover: Mix in chocolate chips into the batter for a rich chocolate twist or drizzle melted chocolate over the caramel for an extra indulgence.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make this cake friendly for those with dietary restrictions.
- Spiced Variation: Incorporate a teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg to enhance the flavor profile with warm spices.
- Vegan Version: Replace the egg with a flax egg and use coconut oil or vegan butter to create a plant-based delight.
Serving Suggestions for Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake
- Pair the cake with a dollop of whipped cream for a light touch.
- Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream to balance the gooey caramel.
- A hot cup of brewed coffee makes the perfect refreshing companion.
- Drizzle extra caramel sauce on top for a decadent presentation.
FAQs about Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake
Can I make the Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the cake a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container at room temperature. When you’re ready to serve, warm it slightly and drizzle with fresh caramel sauce for the best experience.
How can I store leftover cake?
To keep your Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container. It should last up to three days at room temperature, but the gooey texture is best enjoyed within the first 48 hours!
Can I use decaf coffee in the recipe?
Of course! If you’re looking for a dessert without the caffeine jitters, decaf coffee works just as well. The rich flavor will still shine through, keeping your Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake deliciously indulgent.
What can I serve with this cake for a complete dessert?
This cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of ice cream, whipped cream, or even a drizzle of extra caramel sauce. You could also serve it with a cup of warm coffee or a glass of cold milk for a cozy treat.
Is it possible to freeze the cake?
Yes, you can freeze the cake! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight before serving.
Final Thoughts
Baking Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake is indeed something magic. Your kitchen would soon be filled with the fragrance of coffee while a warm gooey caramel sauce turns a simple dessert into a memorable taste. Every flavor role if taken by a single bite thereby creating the feeling of visiting some cozy café from home. The occasion or just another night in makes this cake the bearer of gladness. Now, isn’t that the icing on the cake? How to divide joy amongst your close ones, who relish your treat? Huge baking and may your life be as sweet as this confection!
PrintGooey Coffee Caramel Cake will Delight Your Taste Buds!
This Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake combines rich coffee flavors with a decadent caramel sauce, perfect for dessert lovers.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 9 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
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 (for caramel sauce)
- ½ cup unsalted butter (for caramel sauce)
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (for caramel sauce)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for caramel sauce)
- Pinch of salt (for caramel sauce)
- 2 tablespoons brewed coffee (for coffee drizzle)
- 1 tablespoon powdered sugar (for coffee drizzle)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In a separate large bowl, beat together the softened butter and egg until light and fluffy. Add the brewed coffee, buttermilk, and vanilla extract, and mix well. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until smooth.
- Pour the cake batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool for 10 minutes in the pan, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- While the cake is cooling, make the caramel sauce. In a saucepan, combine the brown sugar, butter, and heavy cream. Stir constantly over medium heat until the mixture comes to a simmer. Let it simmer for about 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat, stir in the vanilla extract and salt, and set aside.
Notes
- For a stronger coffee flavor, use espresso instead of brewed coffee.
- The caramel sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator.
- Serve the cake warm with a drizzle of caramel sauce for the best experience.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 50mg