🍫 Chocolate and Caramel Dessert Cake 🍮

Description

This Chocolate and Caramel Dessert Cake is a decadent, moist chocolate cake layered with rich caramel filling and topped with smooth chocolate ganache. The perfect balance of deep cocoa flavors and creamy caramel creates an indulgent dessert ideal for special occasions or a treat-yourself moment.

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Cake:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
2 tsp baking powder
1 ½ tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
2 large eggs
1 cup whole milk
½ cup vegetable oil
2 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup boiling water

For the Caramel Filling:

1 cup granulated sugar
¼ cup water
½ cup heavy cream
4 tbsp unsalted butter
1 tsp vanilla extract
½ tsp sea salt

For the Chocolate Ganache:

1 cup heavy cream
8 oz semisweet or dark chocolate, chopped

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chocolate Cake

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch cake pans with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Add the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
Gradually add the boiling water while stirring (the batter will be thin, but this is normal).
Divide the batter evenly between the two cake pans and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 2: Make the Caramel Filling

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine sugar and water. Stir until dissolved.
Cook without stirring until the mixture turns an amber color (about 5-7 minutes).
Carefully add the heavy cream (it will bubble up). Stir quickly until smooth.
Remove from heat and mix in butter, vanilla, and sea salt.
Let the caramel cool to room temperature before using.

Step 3: Prepare the Chocolate Ganache

Heat the heavy cream in a saucepan until it starts to simmer.
Pour over the chopped chocolate and let sit for 2-3 minutes.
Stir until smooth and glossy. Let cool slightly before using.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of caramel filling over the top.
Place the second cake layer on top and gently press down.
Pour the chocolate ganache over the cake, allowing it to drip down the sides.
Let the cake set for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Notes & Tips

✔ Use quality chocolate – High-quality cocoa powder and chocolate will enhance the cake’s flavor.
✔ Room temperature ingredients – Ensure eggs and dairy ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing.
✔ Caramel troubleshooting – If your caramel crystallizes, add a little extra water and stir over low heat.
✔ Storage – Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.

Servings

This recipe makes 10-12 servings depending on slice size.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Approximate values

Calories: 480 kcal
Carbohydrates: 58g
Protein: 5g
Fats: 25g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Sugar: 45g
Fiber: 3g

Health Benefits

🍫 Dark Chocolate – Rich in antioxidants, improves heart health.
🍮 Caramel – Provides quick energy and enhances flavor.
🥛 Milk & Cream – Good source of calcium and healthy fats.
🥚 Eggs – Provide protein for muscle repair.

Q&A (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q1: Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes! You can bake the cake layers and store them (wrapped in plastic wrap) for up to 2 days before assembling.

Q2: Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?

Absolutely! If you’re short on time, pre-made caramel sauce works well.

Q3: Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free baking flour (1:1 ratio).

Q4: Can I freeze this cake?

Yes! Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw before serving.

Q5: What’s the best way to serve this cake?

Serve slightly warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of extra caramel sauce!

This Chocolate and Caramel Dessert Cake is an irresistible treat for chocolate lovers! 🍰 Let me know if you’d like any modifications. 😊