Decadence Redefined: Salted Caramel Cake with Kentucky Buttercream Recipe
Welcome to a world of indulgence and pure bliss! Today, we’re thrilled to share a show-stopping dessert that will transport you to dessert heaven – the Salted Caramel Cake with Kentucky Buttercream. Get ready to embark on a culinary journey like no other, as we unveil the secret to creating this exquisite masterpiece that marries the rich allure of salted caramel with the velvety smoothness of Kentucky buttercream. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this user-friendly recipe will guide you to create a dessert that’s sure to impress both your taste buds and your loved ones.
Why Choose the Salted Caramel Cake with Kentucky Buttercream?
This sublime dessert is a celebration of flavors and textures, meticulously crafted to awaken your senses. Imagine a moist and tender caramel-infused cake, lovingly layered with a generous spread of decadent Kentucky buttercream. The delightful balance of sweet and salty notes dances harmoniously on your palate, leaving you yearning for more with every delectable forkful. With the perfect blend of simplicity and sophistication, this cake is ideal for special occasions or simply to treat yourself to an unforgettable dessert experience.
Ingredients (Makes one 8-inch layer cake):
For the Salted Caramel Cake:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup buttermilk, at room temperature
– 1/2 cup homemade or store-bought salted caramel sauce
For the Kentucky Buttercream:
– 1 1/2 cups (3 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 5 cups powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
For Assembly:
– Additional salted caramel sauce for drizzling
– Flaky sea salt for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare two 8-inch round cake pans by greasing and flouring them. Line the bottoms with parchment paper for easy release.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for a tender cake crumb and smooth buttercream.
3. Incorporate the eggs, one at a time, into the creamed mixture, ensuring each egg is fully blended before adding the next. This will create a velvety batter.
4. Stir in the pure vanilla extract, infusing the batter with a delightful aroma and flavor that will elevate your cake.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Sift the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Gently fold the ingredients together until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
6. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula for an even rise.
7. Bake the cakes in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. While the cakes are cooling, prepare the luscious Kentucky buttercream. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy and fluffy.
9. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, and beat until fully incorporated. This step ensures a smooth and velvety buttercream.
10. Pour in the heavy cream, pure vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Continue to beat the mixture until the buttercream is light and airy.
11. Once the cakes have cooled, level the tops if necessary to create an even surface for layering.
12. On one cake layer, generously spread a thick layer of the salted caramel sauce. This luscious filling will infuse every bite with a tantalizing caramel goodness.
13. Place the second cake layer on top, creating a delightful caramel-filled sandwich.
14. Frost the entire cake with the prepared Kentucky buttercream, ensuring an even and smooth finish.
15. For an elegant touch, drizzle more salted caramel sauce over the top of the cake, allowing it to cascade down the sides enticingly.
16. To add a touch of sophistication, sprinkle flaky sea salt over the caramel drizzle, enhancing the cake’s sweet and salty symphony.
Congratulations! You’ve successfully embarked on a culinary journey and crafted the mesmerizing Salted Caramel Cake with Kentucky Buttercream. With its divine combination of moist caramel-infused cake and velvety buttercream, this dessert is a masterpiece that will delight your taste buds and leave a lasting impression on everyone lucky enough to taste it. So, share the joy of this indulgent treat with your loved ones, and savor each slice with a sense of accomplishment. From special occasions to everyday celebrations, this cake is bound to become a new favorite in your dessert repertoire. Now, go forth and create this decadent delight, and let its sweet and salty allure redefine decadence for you and your guests. Happy baking!
