Introduction to Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake
As a busy mom, I know how precious time can be, especially when it comes to whipping up something sweet. That’s why I adore this Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake! It’s not just a dessert; it’s a warm hug on a plate. Imagine the rich aroma of coffee mingling with luscious caramel, creating a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply indulge after a long day, this cake is your go-to solution. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked!
Why You’ll Love This Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake
This Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake is a dream come true for busy lives. It’s quick to prepare, taking just about 50 minutes from start to finish. The combination of coffee and caramel creates a flavor explosion that will have your taste buds dancing. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser! Whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy night in, this cake brings joy and comfort to every bite.
Ingredients for Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this delightful Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake. Here’s what you’ll need:
- All-purpose flour: This is the backbone of your cake, providing structure and texture.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake and helps it rise, giving it that perfect fluffy texture.
- Baking powder: A leavening agent that helps the cake rise beautifully.
- Baking soda: Works with the acidic buttermilk to create a light, airy cake.
- Salt: Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- Unsalted butter: Adds richness and moisture; make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
- Large egg: Binds the ingredients together and adds moisture.
- Brewed coffee: The star of the show! It infuses the cake with a deep, rich flavor.
- Buttermilk: Adds tanginess and keeps the cake moist; you can substitute with regular milk if needed.
- Vanilla extract: A must-have for that warm, comforting flavor.
- Brown sugar: Used for the caramel sauce, it gives a deep, rich sweetness.
- Heavy cream: Makes the caramel sauce creamy and luscious.
- Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness of the caramel sauce.
- Powdered sugar: For the coffee drizzle, it adds sweetness without grittiness.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Happy baking!
How to Make Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
First things first, let’s get that oven preheating to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, grab a 9×9-inch baking pan. You can grease and flour it or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later. This little step ensures your Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake won’t stick, making it a breeze to serve. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself later when it comes time to slice into that deliciousness!
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This is where the magic begins! Mixing these dry ingredients well ensures that your cake rises evenly and has a lovely texture. I like to use a whisk for this step; it helps break up any lumps and combines everything beautifully. Just imagine the fluffy cake that awaits you!
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
Now, let’s move on to the wet ingredients. In a large bowl, beat together the softened unsalted butter and the egg until it’s light and fluffy. This step is crucial for creating that rich, gooey texture. Next, add in the brewed coffee, buttermilk, and vanilla extract. Mix everything until it’s well combined. The aroma of coffee will fill your kitchen, and you’ll be tempted to sneak a taste!
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
It’s time to bring the wet and dry ingredients together! Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring gently until everything is smooth. Be careful not to overmix; we want a tender cake, not a tough one. Just think of it as a gentle hug for your batter. Once it’s all combined, you’ll have a luscious cake batter ready to pour into the pan!
Step 5: Bake the Cake
Pour the cake batter into your prepared pan and pop it into the oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes, but keep an eye on it! You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The smell wafting through your home will be heavenly. Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Patience is key here!
Step 6: Make the Caramel Sauce
While your cake cools, it’s time to whip up that irresistible caramel sauce. In a saucepan, combine the brown sugar, unsalted butter, and heavy cream. Stir constantly over medium heat until it simmers. Let it bubble for about 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently until it thickens. Remove it from the heat, then stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. This sauce is the cherry on top of your Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake!
Tips for Success
- Always use cooled brewed coffee to prevent the batter from melting the butter.
- For a richer flavor, opt for dark brown sugar in your caramel sauce.
- Let the cake cool completely before drizzling with caramel for the best presentation.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container to keep it fresh and gooey.
- Serve warm for an extra indulgent experience!
Equipment Needed
- 9×9-inch baking pan: A square pan works best, but you can use an 8×8-inch pan if that’s what you have.
- Mixing bowls: A medium and a large bowl will do the trick.
- Whisk: A fork can substitute if you don’t have one.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accuracy in baking.
- Spatula: Great for scraping down the sides of the bowl.
Variations
- Nutty Delight: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a delightful crunch.
- Chocolate Lovers: Mix in chocolate chips for a rich, gooey twist that pairs perfectly with coffee.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a delicious alternative.
- Vegan Version: Use plant-based butter, a flax egg, and almond milk to create a vegan-friendly cake.
- Spiced Up: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm, spiced flavor.
Serving Suggestions for Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake
- Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast of temperatures.
- Serve alongside a steaming cup of coffee or a rich espresso to enhance the flavors.
- Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder for an elegant touch.
- Garnish with chocolate shavings or caramel drizzle for a beautiful presentation.
FAQs about Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake
Can I make 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 in the oven and drizzle with fresh caramel sauce for that gooey goodness!
What can I use instead of buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, don’t worry! You can easily make a substitute by mixing one cup of regular milk with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5 minutes, and you’ll have a perfect buttermilk replacement.
How do I store leftovers of the Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake?
To keep your cake fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container. It will stay delicious for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap and foil.
Can I use decaf coffee in this recipe?
Of course! If you prefer decaf, feel free to use it. The flavor will still shine through, and you can enjoy this delightful dessert without the caffeine kick.
What’s the best way to serve this cake?
For the ultimate experience, serve your Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Pair it with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat!
Final Thoughts
Making this Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake is more than just baking; it’s about creating sweet memories in your kitchen. The rich flavors of coffee and caramel blend together, bringing warmth and comfort to every bite. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself after a long day, this cake is sure to bring smiles all around. I love how it fills my home with delightful aromas, making it feel like a cozy café. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the gooey goodness, and enjoy the joy this cake brings to your table!
Print
Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 9 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
As a busy mom, I know how precious time can be, especially when it comes to whipping up something sweet. That’s why I adore this Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake! It’s not just a dessert; it’s a warm hug on a plate. Imagine the rich aroma of coffee mingling with luscious caramel, creating a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply indulge after a long day, this cake is your go-to solution. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked!
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
- Ensure the coffee is cooled before adding it to the batter.
- For a richer flavor, use dark brown sugar in the caramel sauce.
- Serve the cake warm for an extra gooey texture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
