Description
This Decadent Caramel Chocolate Cake is a luxurious dessert that combines moist chocolate cake layers with gooey caramel filling and a luscious chocolate-caramel glaze. It’s perfect for birthdays, dinner parties, or any occasion where indulgence is a must. Every slice is a rich, chocolaty experience that melts in your mouth, leaving you wanting more.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 pinch of salt
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup brewed coffee (hot or warm)
For the Filling and Glaze:
- 1 jar caramel sauce (slightly warmed)
- 1 jar chocolate sauce
- 1 can sweetened condensed milk
Optional Toppings:
- Pinch of sea salt
- Whipped cream for garnish
- Chocolate shavings for decoration
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans, or line them with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, sugar, and salt. Whisk to ensure everything is evenly combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, vegetable oil, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until smooth.
- Slowly add the hot brewed coffee, mixing gently until the batter becomes thin and fully incorporated.
Step 2: Bake the Cake
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
- Remove from the oven and let the cakes cool in their pans for 10 minutes. Transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 3: Assemble the Layers with Caramel Sauce
- Once the cakes have fully cooled, use a serrated knife to level the tops if necessary.
- Place the first layer of cake on a serving plate or cake stand.
- Spread a generous layer of warm caramel sauce over the top, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.
- Place the second cake layer on top.
Step 4: Prepare the Chocolate-Caramel Glaze
- In a small bowl, mix the remaining caramel sauce with chocolate sauce until smooth.
- Pour the glaze over the top of the assembled cake, letting it drip dramatically down the sides for a visually stunning effect.
Step 5: Add the Final Touches
- Drizzle extra caramel and chocolate sauce over the top for added flair.
- Sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt for a salted caramel twist, or add swirls of whipped cream and chocolate shavings for an elegant finish.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Let the cake rest for 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Slice and serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for the ultimate indulgence.
Notes
- For a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking mix.
- If you don’t have caramel sauce, homemade caramel made from sugar, butter, and cream works perfectly.
- For extra moistness, brush each cake layer with sweetened condensed milk before adding the caramel sauce.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American