Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake Recipe

The Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake is a decadent dream come true for anyone who loves rich coffee flavors mingling with luscious caramel notes in a tender, moist cake. Imagine a perfectly baked golden cake saturated with the bold essence of brewed coffee, topped with a sticky, buttery caramel sauce that seeps into every crumb. This delightful treat blends the warmth of coffee with the sweetness of caramel in a way that will instantly become your new favorite dessert to share with friends or savor during cozy afternoons. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just looking to try something irresistibly delicious, this Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake promises a sensational blend of flavors and textures you won’t forget.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and moisture. From the soft crumb of the cake to the glossy richness of the caramel, these simple staples come together to elevate your baking experience.

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour: The base for the cake, providing structure and a tender crumb.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake while helping to create a soft texture.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder: Ensures the cake rises beautifully and stays light.
• ½ teaspoon baking soda: Works with the acidic ingredients to add lift and tenderness.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and moisture to the cake.
• 1 large egg: Binds the ingredients and contributes to the cake’s structure.
• ½ cup brewed coffee, cooled: Infuses the cake with a deep coffee flavor without bitterness.
• ½ cup buttermilk: Adds tanginess and helps to keep the cake moist and tender.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the coffee notes and sweet undertones.
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed (for caramel sauce): Creates the rich, molasses-infused caramel flavor.
• ½ cup unsalted butter (for caramel sauce): Provides a creamy, smooth texture to the sauce.
• ¼ cup heavy cream: Makes the caramel luxuriously rich and gooey.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for caramel sauce): Adds depth and warmth to the sauce.
• Pinch of salt (for caramel sauce): Heightens the sweetness and balances flavors.
• 2 tablespoons brewed coffee (for coffee drizzle): Gives the drizzle a gentle, aromatic kick.
• 1 tablespoon powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the coffee drizzle perfectly.

How to Make Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven & Prepare the Cake

Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). Then, grease and flour a 9×9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper to ensure your cake doesn’t stick and comes out with perfectly smooth edges. This preps your baking dish nicely for the gooey magic about to happen.

Step 2: Make the Cake Batter

Grab two bowls to keep things organized. In the first, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt — these dry ingredients form the foundation of your cake’s texture and rise. In the second larger bowl, beat the softened butter and egg until the mixture turns pale and fluffy, which means you’re building lightness right from the start! Then stir in the brewed coffee, buttermilk, and vanilla extract to infuse the batter with those signature flavors. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet, mixing just until smooth so your cake stays tender and not dense.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared pan with care, smoothing the top so it bakes evenly. Pop it into the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Keep an eye on it and test doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center — if it comes out clean, your cake is ready. Let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes to help it set a bit before transferring it onto a wire rack to cool completely, so it doesn’t get soggy underneath.

Step 4: Prepare the Caramel Sauce

While the cake cools, turn your attention to the decadent caramel sauce. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the brown sugar, butter, and heavy cream. Stir frequently as the mixture warms and begins to bubble gently. After about 3 to 4 minutes of simmering, the sauce thickens into a glossy, gooey delight — take it off the heat promptly to avoid burning, then stir in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt for that perfect balance of sweetness and depth. This sauce is what takes your Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake from delicious to unforgettable.

How to Serve Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake

Garnishes

Don’t skip the garnish! A light dusting of powdered sugar or a few coffee beans artfully placed on top can make your Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake look as amazing as it tastes. You could also drizzle a little extra caramel sauce or a chocolate shavings for added decadence and contrast.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream to complement its richness. For coffee lovers, a side of espresso or a creamy latte will echo the cake’s robust flavors and complete your indulgent treat.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving your Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake warm in small squares over dessert plates alongside a drizzle of the coffee glaze. For special occasions, layering it with mascarpone or cream cheese frosting can add an extra velvety dimension. Or create an elegant dessert platter by slicing it into mini bites topped with caramel popcorn or toasted nuts for added texture and visual appeal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Beyond that, refrigerating helps keep the caramel sauce fresh and the cake moist for up to four days. Just be sure to bring it to room temperature before serving for the best gooey experience.

Freezing

If you want to save your cake for longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze it for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and gently warm it before serving to bring back the lovely caramel gooeyness you crave.

Reheating

Warm up slices of Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in a preheated oven at 300°F for about 10 minutes. This will restore the caramel’s melt-in-your-mouth texture and make every bite taste freshly baked all over again.

FAQs

Can I use instant coffee instead of brewed coffee?

Absolutely! Instant coffee dissolved in a little hot water works well here and can be a convenient alternative that delivers just as much coffee flavor to your Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake.

What if I don’t have buttermilk?

No worries! You can easily make a buttermilk substitute by adding a tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to a half cup of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using to mimic that tangy acidity perfect for this recipe.

How do I know when the caramel sauce is ready?

The caramel sauce should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon and have a glossy appearance. It thickens as it cools, so take it off the heat as soon as it reaches a gentle simmer and thickens slightly to avoid burning or overcooking.

Can this cake be made gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking flour blend. Just be sure your blend contains xanthan gum or a similar binder to help maintain the cake’s structure and texture.

Is this cake suitable for beginners?

Definitely! The recipe uses straightforward steps and common ingredients. With a little attention to mixing and baking times, even novice bakers can confidently create a fantastic Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake to impress friends and family.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a cake that offers the perfect marriage of rich coffee and luscious caramel in every bite, you owe it to yourself to try this Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake. It’s not just a dessert — it’s a warm hug in cake form. Once you taste the melt-in-your-mouth caramel paired with the soft, coffee-infused crumb, you’ll find yourself reaching for seconds and planning your next bake. So go ahead, bring a little joy and indulgence into your kitchen with this truly unforgettable treat!

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