Name: Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
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; ½ cup unsalted butter (for caramel sauce); ¼ cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for caramel sauce); Pinch of salt (for caramel sauce); 2 tablespoons brewed coffee (for drizzle); 1 tablespoon powdered sugar (for drizzle)

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Introduction to Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake

Life can feel like a whirlwind, can’t it? Between work, family, and endless to-do lists, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. That’s why I’m thrilled to share my Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake with you. This delightful dessert is not only a quick solution for those busy days, but it also impresses everyone at the table. The rich flavors of coffee blended with caramel create a treat that’s perfect for winding down after a hectic day or for elevating your special gatherings. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you for this indulgent experience!

Why You’ll Love This Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake

This Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake checks all the boxes for an effortless dessert. It’s incredibly simple to whip up, making it perfect for busy evenings or last-minute gatherings. The mix of warm coffee flavors and gooey caramel is pure bliss. Plus, who can resist a cake that’s as satisfying as a hug in dessert form? Your loved ones will be coming back for seconds, guaranteed!

Ingredients for Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake

Gathering your ingredients is half the fun of baking, right? For this Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake, you’ll need a mix of pantry staples and a couple of treats that elevate the flavors. Here’s a rundown of what to grab:

All-purpose flour: The backbone of the cake for structure and texture.
Granulated sugar: To sweeten the cake and help create that inviting texture.
Baking powder and baking soda: The dynamic duo that gives the cake its fluffy rise.
Salt: Just a pinch enhances all the delicious flavors.
Unsalted butter: Look for quality butter, as it adds richness to the cake and caramel.
Egg: Provides moisture and helps bind everything together.
Brewed coffee: Use cooled coffee to infuse that deep, aromatic flavor into the cake.
Buttermilk: It adds a tanginess that balances the sweetness beautifully.
Vanilla extract: A classic ingredient, it brightens the overall flavor profile.
Brown sugar: The star of the caramel sauce for that deep, gooey sweetness.
Heavy cream: This luxurious ingredient creates a dreamy caramel sauce.
Powdered sugar: Perfect for a light drizzle on top for that extra sweetness.

For those wanting to add an extra layer of coffee goodness, consider a tablespoon of instant coffee in the batter. Feeling adventurous? You can swap out the buttermilk for yogurt or a non-dairy alternative, too. All the exact quantities for these ingredients can be found at the bottom of the article for easy access and printing.

How to Make Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

First things first, it’s time to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial for a perfectly baked cake. While your oven warms up, take a 9×9-inch baking pan. Grease it with unsalted butter or use a splash of cooking spray. After that, sprinkle a little flour and tap the pan to coat it evenly, ensuring your cake won’t stick. If you’re a parchment paper fan, line the bottom of the pan for easy removal! The right preparation sets the stage for your Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake’s success.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together all your dry ingredients: flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mixing these well is vital, as it helps distribute the leavening agents evenly throughout the batter. You want every bite to have that perfect rise! I love watching those ingredients come together, almost like they’re blending their personalities. Don’t rush this step; the right mix sets your cake’s texture. Once you see a uniform mixture, you’re ready to move on!

Step 3: Cream Butter and Eggs

Now, it’s time for the fun part—creating that delightful base between softened butter and eggs! In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until it’s creamy and light. Add in your egg and keep blending. This process is all about achieving that airy fluffiness that makes your cake tender and lovely. The butter should become pale and slightly fluffy. Scrape down the sides to catch any stubborn bits, ensuring a uniformly creamy mix. It’s like inviting the butter and egg to a dance party in your bowl!

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

With your butter and eggs ready, it’s time to combine the wet and dry ingredients. Pour the cooled brewed coffee, buttermilk, and vanilla extract into your buttery mixture. Start mixing slowly. Gradually fold in the dry ingredients, stirring gently until everything is perfectly blended. Be careful not to overmix; it can lead to a tough cake. You’re aiming for a smooth, slightly runny batter—a lovely canvas for the magical transformation ahead!

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Pour your well-combined batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Pop it into your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. As it bakes, the aromas of coffee will dance through your kitchen! To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, your cake is ready. If not, give it a few more minutes. Once baked, let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This cooling time helps maintain that gooey texture!

Step 6: Make the Caramel Sauce

While your cake cools, let’s work on that luscious caramel sauce. In a saucepan, combine brown sugar, butter, and heavy cream. Stir it over medium heat constantly until you bring it to a simmer. Let it simmer for about 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently. You want the mixture to thicken into that rich, gooey goodness. Once thickened, take it off the heat and stir in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. This step adds complexity and balances the sweetness, giving your sauce a gourmet touch!

Tips for Success

Use room temperature ingredients for better mixing.
Watch the cake closely during the last few minutes of baking.
For a richer flavor, try using espresso coffee instead of regular brewed coffee.
Allow the caramel sauce to cool slightly before drizzling for easier handling.
Don’t be afraid to customize with nuts or chocolate chips for extra texture!

Equipment Needed for Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake

9×9-inch baking pan or any similar size, like an 8×8-inch pan.
Mixing bowls—one medium and one large.
Whisk for mixing dry ingredients.
Electric mixer or spatula for creaming butter and eggs.
Measuring cups and spoons, or a kitchen scale for accuracy.

Variations of Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake

Nutty Delight: Add a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for an added crunch and depth of flavor.
Chocolate Lovers: Fold in semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips to the batter for a rich, decadent version.
Spiced Bonus: Incorporate cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spiced flavor that’s perfect for cozy gatherings.
Dairy-Free Option: Substitute the butter and cream with non-dairy alternatives like coconut oil and coconut cream to make it vegan-friendly.
Decadent Layer Cake: Bake the batter in two 9-inch round pans to create a layered cake, filling each layer with caramel sauce and whipped cream.
Mocha Variation: Enhance the coffee flavor by adding a tablespoon of cocoa powder to the dry ingredients for a mocha twist.

Serving Suggestions for Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake

Scoop a generous dollop of whipped cream on top to elevate each slice.
Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a warm and cold contrast.
Serve alongside a steaming cup of coffee or espresso for a delightful coffee break.
Drizzle extra caramel sauce over the cake for an eye-catching presentation.
Garnish with a sprinkle of sea salt to enhance the caramel flavor.

FAQs about Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake

What type of coffee should I use for this cake?

You can use any brewed coffee you prefer! Regular coffee works great, but for a richer flavor, try using espresso. Just make sure it’s cooled before adding it to your batter.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! This Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake can be baked a day in advance. Just store it covered at room temperature to keep it fresh. Drizzle the caramel sauce just before serving!

How should I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be kept in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to save it longer, refrigerate, but allow it to come to room temperature before serving for the best taste and texture.

Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, freezing is an option! Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying it again!

How do I prevent my cake from sticking to the pan?

To ensure easy removal, don’t skip greasing and flouring your pan! You can also use parchment paper, which helps the cake slide right out. Trust me; this makes life much easier when it’s time to serve.

Final Thoughts

As you indulge in this Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake, let each bite transport you to a world of comfort and joy. There’s something truly special about a rich dessert, especially one that blends coffee and caramel so perfectly. This isn’t just a cake; it’s a moment to pause, enjoy, and share with loved ones. Whether it’s a busy weekday or a leisurely weekend, this recipe fits seamlessly into your life. So, gather around the table, raise your forks, and celebrate the sweet moments that life has to offer!