There are few desserts as decadent and satisfying as a perfectly layered Caramel Coffee Buttercream Cake. This cake combines moist, coffee-infused layers with a luscious caramel buttercream frosting that melts in your mouth. The marriage of rich coffee flavor with sweet, buttery caramel makes it an irresistible treat for coffee lovers and dessert enthusiasts alike.

Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a brunch, or simply craving an indulgent dessert, this cake promises a show-stopping centerpiece. It’s soft, fluffy, and deeply flavorful, with every bite offering a perfect balance of sweetness and subtle coffee richness.

In this article, you’ll find a step-by-step guide to making this luxurious cake, along with helpful tips, optional variations, storage advice, and answers to frequently asked questions. By the end, you’ll be equipped to bake a cake that impresses both in taste and appearance.

Ingredients for Caramel Coffee Buttercream Cake

For the Cake

• 2 cups all-purpose flour – Provides structure for soft, tender layers.
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar – Sweetens the cake.
• ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened – Adds richness and moisture.
• 3 large eggs – Contributes to structure and richness.
• 1 cup strong brewed coffee, cooled – Infuses the cake with bold coffee flavor.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor.
• 2 tsp baking powder – Helps the cake rise.
• ½ tsp salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
• ½ cup caramel sauce – Adds sweet, buttery caramel flavor.

For the Caramel Coffee Buttercream

• 1 ½ cups unsalted butter, softened – Forms the base of a creamy frosting.
• 3 cups powdered sugar – Sweetens and thickens the buttercream.
• 2 tbsp strong brewed coffee, cooled – Enhances coffee flavor.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract – Adds warmth and depth.

How to Prepare Caramel Coffee Buttercream Cake

Follow these steps carefully for a moist, flavorful cake with smooth, silky buttercream.

Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Pans

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans, or line with parchment paper circles for easy removal.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream together ¾ cup softened butter and 1 ½ cups granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3–5 minutes. This incorporates air for a tender, airy cake.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in 1 tsp vanilla extract.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups all-purpose flour, 2 tsp baking powder, and ½ tsp salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with 1 cup cooled brewed coffee, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined.

Step 5: Fold in Caramel

Gently fold in ½ cup caramel sauce. This adds pockets of rich, buttery caramel throughout the cake. Be careful not to overmix, as this can affect the cake’s texture.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

How to Make Caramel Coffee Buttercream

Step 1: Beat the Butter

In a large bowl, beat 1 ½ cups softened butter with a hand or stand mixer until creamy and light in color, about 3–4 minutes.

Step 2: Add Powdered Sugar

Gradually add 3 cups powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing on low to avoid a sugar cloud. Increase to medium speed and beat until fully combined and smooth.

Step 3: Add Coffee and Vanilla

Add 2 tbsp cooled brewed coffee and 1 tsp vanilla extract, beating on medium speed until fluffy and creamy. Taste and adjust coffee flavor as desired.

Step 4: Optional Caramel Swirl

For extra caramel flavor, gently fold in 2–3 tbsp caramel sauce for a marbled effect in the buttercream.

Assembling the Cake

1. Level the Layers: If needed, use a serrated knife to level the tops of the cakes for an even layer.
2. Frost Between Layers: Spread a generous layer of buttercream on top of the bottom cake layer.
3. Stack and Frost: Place the second cake layer on top, then cover the entire cake with a thin crumb coat to seal in crumbs. Chill for 15–20 minutes if needed.
4. Final Frosting: Apply the remaining buttercream smoothly over the top and sides. Use a spatula or piping bag for decorative touches.
5. Optional Garnish: Drizzle caramel sauce over the top and sprinkle with chocolate shavings or coffee beans for a beautiful finish.

Tips for the Perfect Cake

1. Use Strong Coffee: Brewed coffee enhances the cake flavor without making it bitter. Espresso or French press works well.
2. Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter, eggs, and coffee are at room temperature for smoother batter.
3. Don’t Overmix: Overmixing can make the cake dense. Mix until just combined.
4. Chill for Easier Frosting: Slightly chilled cakes are easier to frost without crumbling.
5. Caramel Sauce: Use high-quality caramel for the best flavor.

Optional Variations

Chocolate-Caramel Twist

Add a thin layer of ganache between cake layers for a chocolate-caramel combination.

Coffee Liqueur Boost

Add 1–2 tbsp coffee liqueur to the buttercream for an adult-friendly flavor.

Mini Cupcake Version

Divide batter into cupcake liners for individual portions. Reduce baking time to 18–20 minutes.

Salted Caramel

Sprinkle flaky sea salt over the top for a sweet-and-salty flavor profile.

Storage and Serving Tips

Room Temperature

Store covered for up to 2 days. Cake will remain moist and flavorful.

Refrigeration

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Bring to room temperature before serving.

Freezing

Freeze frosted or unfrosted cake for up to 2 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Thaw in the fridge overnight.

Why This Caramel Coffee Buttercream Cake Is Special

• Moist and Fluffy: Coffee-infused layers are tender yet sturdy.
• Rich and Flavorful: Buttercream is creamy, with the perfect balance of coffee and caramel.
• Versatile: Can be served as a birthday cake, brunch treat, or elegant dessert.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Appeals to coffee lovers and dessert enthusiasts alike.
• Customizable: Variations allow for chocolate, liqueur, or salted caramel twists.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use instant coffee instead of brewed coffee?

Yes, dissolve 1–2 tsp of instant coffee in 1 cup warm water or milk.

2. Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

3. Can I make ahead of time?

Yes, bake layers in advance and frost the next day for easier assembly.

4. Can I use caramel-flavored syrup instead of caramel sauce?

It’s better to use thick caramel sauce for pockets of rich flavor, but syrup can work in a pinch.

5. Can I add a coffee-flavored extract?

Yes, a few drops of coffee or espresso extract can intensify the flavor.

6. Can I make a smaller cake?

Yes, halve the recipe for an 8-inch cake or use cupcakes. Adjust baking time accordingly.

7. How do I prevent frosting from being too runny?

Ensure butter is soft but not melted, and sift powdered sugar to prevent lumps. Chill cake layers slightly before frosting.

8. Can I use salted butter?

Yes, but reduce additional salt in the recipe slightly to avoid over-salting.

9. Can I layer with whipped cream instead of buttercream?

Yes, but buttercream holds its shape better and complements caramel and coffee flavors more robustly.

10. How long will the cake stay fresh?

At room temperature, 2 days; refrigerated, 5 days; frozen, 2 months.

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Conclusion

This Caramel Coffee Buttercream Cake is a show-stopping dessert with moist coffee layers, rich caramel, and silky buttercream frosting. Perfect for celebrations, coffee lovers, or anyone craving an indulgent treat, this cake combines elegance with deep, comforting flavors.

By following the steps in this recipe, you’ll create a cake that is both visually stunning and irresistibly delicious, leaving everyone asking for seconds. Its flavor balance, versatility, and ease of preparation make it a must-try recipe for any dessert enthusiast.