Salted Caramel Chocolate Cake is a decadent dessert that combines rich chocolate cake layers with luscious salted caramel sauce and a creamy chocolate frosting. The perfect balance of sweet and salty, this cake is sure to impress at any celebration or special occasion!

Ingredients List

For the Chocolate Cake:

• 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
• ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup boiling water

For the Salted Caramel Sauce:

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into pieces
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon sea salt (or to taste)

For the Chocolate Frosting:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 ½ cups powdered sugar
• ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

For Garnish (Optional):

• Additional salted caramel sauce for drizzling
• Chocolate shavings or curls
• Sea salt flakes

Timing

Preparing Salted Caramel Chocolate Cake takes about 30 minutes of prep time and 35-40 minutes of baking time. Total time is approximately 1 hour 15 minutes, plus cooling time.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.

Step 2: Make the Chocolate Cake

1. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk together until well combined.
2. Add Wet Ingredients: Add the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes until smooth.
3. Incorporate Boiling Water: Carefully stir in the boiling water until well combined (the batter will be thin).
4. Bake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.

Step 3: Prepare the Salted Caramel Sauce

1. Make Caramel: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the sugar, stirring constantly until it turns a deep amber color.
2. Add Butter: Once melted, carefully add the butter and stir until melted and combined.
3. Incorporate Cream: Slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring (the mixture will bubble up). Continue stirring until smooth.
4. Add Salt: Remove from heat and stir in the sea salt. Allow to cool slightly before using.

Step 4: Make the Chocolate Frosting

1. Beat Butter: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
2. Add Sugar and Cocoa: Gradually add the powdered sugar and cocoa powder, mixing until well combined.
3. Incorporate Cream and Vanilla: Add the heavy cream and vanilla extract, beating until the frosting is light and fluffy.

Step 5: Assemble the Cake

1. Layer the Cakes: Place one chocolate cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of chocolate frosting on top, then drizzle with salted caramel sauce.
2. Add Second Layer: Place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining chocolate frosting.
3. Garnish: Drizzle additional salted caramel sauce over the top and sprinkle with chocolate shavings or sea salt flakes.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick glance at the nutritional profile of Salted Caramel Chocolate Cake (per slice, assuming 12 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Slice
Calories	450
Protein	4g
Fat	22g
Carbohydrates	60g
Fiber	2g

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

To make this dish a bit healthier, consider these modifications:

• Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for added fiber.
• Substitute Greek yogurt for some of the butter in the frosting.
• Reduce the sugar in both the cake and frosting by using a sugar substitute.

Serving Suggestions

Salted Caramel Chocolate Cake pairs well with:

• A scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
• Fresh berries for a refreshing contrast.
• A cup of coffee or espresso for a perfect after-dinner treat.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overbaking the Cake: Keep an eye on the baking time to prevent the cake from becoming dry.
2. Not Cooling Completely: Ensure the cakes are completely cool before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
3. Rushing the Caramel: Be patient when making the caramel; stirring too quickly can cause it to crystallize.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Salted Caramel Chocolate Cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze slices in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

In about 1 hour and 15 minutes, you can create a stunning Salted Caramel Chocolate Cake that’s rich, indulgent, and full of flavor. This cake is perfect for any occasion and will surely delight chocolate and caramel lovers alike!

FAQs

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes! You can bake the cake layers in advance and store them in the refrigerator or freezer until you’re ready to assemble.

Can I use a different type of frosting?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different frostings, such as a cream cheese frosting or whipped cream.

What can I do if I have leftovers?

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Can I customize the recipe?

Definitely! You can add nuts, different flavored chocolate chips, or even layer in some fruit for added flavor.