Butter Cake with Salted Caramel Buttercream Frosting Recipe

There’s something incredibly comforting about a classic butter cake, especially when it’s frosted with a rich, decadent salted caramel buttercream. This Butter Cake with Salted Caramel Buttercream Frosting Recipe is the epitome of indulgence, perfect for celebrations or just a sweet treat after dinner. With its moist, buttery layers and the luxurious taste of salted caramel, it’s a dessert that will impress anyone lucky enough to have a slice. Let’s dive into why this cake is a must-try, what you’ll need, and how to make it!

Reasons to Love Butter Cake with Salted Caramel Buttercream Frosting Recipe

This butter cake is not only a delight to the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. Here are a few reasons to love it:

• Moist and Buttery: The combination of butter and buttermilk makes this cake incredibly moist, with a tender crumb that melts in your mouth.
• Decadent Frosting: The salted caramel buttercream is rich, creamy, and perfectly balanced, enhancing the cake’s flavor.
• Versatile: This cake can be dressed up for special occasions or enjoyed simply with a cup of coffee.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, anyone can master this recipe, regardless of baking experience.

What You’ll Need

Gather your ingredients for this delightful cake. Here’s what you’ll need:

• For the Cake:
  • 3 cups (360g) all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons (8g) baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon (6g) baking soda
  • A pinch (0.4g) of kosher salt
  • 1 cup (226g) softened butter (2 sticks)
  • 2 cups (396g) sugar
  • 4 eggs (200g), room temperature
  • 1 cup (227g) buttermilk, room temperature
  • 2 teaspoons (9.4g) vanilla extract
• For the Salted Caramel Buttercream:
  • 1/2 cup (92g) shortening
  • 1/2 cup (113g) butter
  • 1 teaspoon (6g) baking soda
  • 1/2 cup (113g) butter
  • 1/2 teaspoon (3.25g) sea salt
  • 2 cups (227g) confectioners sugar

Appliances & Accessories

Before you start baking, make sure you have these essential tools handy:

• Mixing Bowls: For combining dry and wet ingredients.
• Electric Mixer: A hand or stand mixer works perfectly for blending the butter and sugar.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to baking success.
• 9-inch Round Cake Pans: For baking the layers of your cake.
• Spatula: For spreading the frosting smoothly.

Mastering Butter Cake with Salted Caramel Buttercream Frosting Recipe: How-To

Follow these detailed steps to achieve a stunning butter cake with salted caramel buttercream:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cake bakes evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Cake Pans

Grease and flour your 9-inch round cake pans. This helps the cake release easily once baked.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and a pinch of kosher salt. Set aside.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat 1 cup of softened butter and 2 cups of sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 5: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add 4 room-temperature eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, blend in 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract.

Step 6: Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with 1 cup of room-temperature buttermilk. Start and end with the flour mixture, mixing until just combined.

Step 7: Pour Batter into Pans

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula.

Step 8: Bake the Cakes

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 9: Cool the Cakes

Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 10: Make the Salted Caramel Buttercream

In a mixing bowl, combine 1/2 cup of shortening and 1/2 cup of softened butter. Beat until creamy. Gradually add 2 cups of confectioners sugar and mix well. Stir in 1/2 teaspoon of sea salt and adjust to taste.

Step 11: Frost the Cakes

Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of salted caramel buttercream on top, then place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake.

Step 12: Serve and Enjoy

Slice your beautiful butter cake and serve it with a drizzle of additional salted caramel sauce if desired. Enjoy every bite of this indulgent treat!

Texture-Safe Substitutions

If you’re looking to modify the recipe without compromising texture, consider these substitutes:

• For buttermilk, use plain yogurt or a mix of milk with a splash of vinegar.
• Instead of shortening, you can use additional butter for a richer flavor.
• To make it gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.

Insider Tips

• Ensure all your ingredients are at room temperature for the best mixing results.
• Don’t overmix the batter; mix just until combined to keep the cake light and fluffy.
• If your frosting is too thick, add a little milk to achieve the desired consistency.
• For an extra touch, garnish with sea salt flakes on top of the frosting.

Save It for Later

This Butter Cake with Salted Caramel Buttercream Frosting Recipe is perfect for making ahead of time. Here’s how to store it:

• Keep the unfrosted cake layers in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days.
• If you plan to frost it later, store the buttercream in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just rewhip it before using.
• Frosted cakes can be kept in the refrigerator for up to a week, but it’s best served fresh.

Handy Q&A

Can I use a different frosting for this cake?

Absolutely! While the salted caramel buttercream is a standout, feel free to use chocolate ganache or vanilla buttercream for a different flavor profile.

How do I know when my cake is done baking?

The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached. The edges will also start to pull away from the pan.

What can I do with leftover salted caramel buttercream?

Leftover frosting can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Use it to frost cookies, cupcakes, or even spread on toast for a sweet treat!

Can I make this cake in advance?

Yes, you can bake the cake layers a day or two ahead of time. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them at room temperature until you’re ready to frost and serve.

One Pan, More Ideas

If you love this Butter Cake with Salted Caramel Buttercream Frosting Recipe, you might also enjoy these delicious dishes:

• Creamy Garlic Lemon Scallop Linguine
• Creamy Roasted Garlic Mushroom Penne

Ready to Cook?

Now that you have all the steps and tips to create a stunning butter cake with salted caramel buttercream frosting, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get baking! This cake is sure to be a hit, whether it’s for a special occasion or simply a sweet indulgence for yourself. Happy baking!

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