Dulce de Leche Cake with Rich Caramel Layers and Cream
Indulge in the luxurious flavors of this Dulce de Leche Cake, featuring rich caramel layers and creamy frosting. Perfect for any celebration!
Equipment
- 1 9-inch round cake pan greased and floured
- 1 electric mixer
- 1 Mixing Bowl large
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 large eggs room temperature
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup whole milk
Frosting
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup dulce de leche for filling
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Cool the cakes in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Frosting and Assembly
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the brown sugar and heavy cream. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 3 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Beat in the powdered sugar until smooth and spreadable.
- Once the cakes are cooled, spread a layer of dulce de leche on top of one cake layer. Place the second layer on top and spread the caramel frosting over the top and sides of the cake.
- Use a spatula or knife to create decorative swirls on the frosting. Optionally, drizzle additional dulce de leche over the top or garnish with chocolate curls or nuts.
Serving and Storage
- Refrigerate the cake for at least an hour before serving to enhance the flavors. Slice and serve with a hot beverage of your choice.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The cake can also be frozen for up to 2 months.
Notes
Pro Tips: Use room temperature ingredients for a smoother batter. Allow the cakes to cool completely before frosting. Refrigerate the cake before serving to enhance flavors.
Ingredient Substitutions: Substitute half of the butter with unsweetened applesauce for a lighter version. Add a touch of sea salt for a salted caramel effect.
How to Serve: Pair with coffee or milk. Garnish with chocolate curls or fresh fruit.
Storage & Freshness: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Freeze for up to 2 months.
Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the cake layers in advance and freeze them until ready to assemble.
Ingredient Substitutions: Substitute half of the butter with unsweetened applesauce for a lighter version. Add a touch of sea salt for a salted caramel effect.
How to Serve: Pair with coffee or milk. Garnish with chocolate curls or fresh fruit.
Storage & Freshness: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Freeze for up to 2 months.
Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the cake layers in advance and freeze them until ready to assemble.