Save
Caramel coffee buttercream cake is a dream for anyone who’s into rich, flavorful sweets. It mixes bold coffee notes and smooth caramel in a way that’s sure to wow at parties or when you want to treat friends without fussing all day in the kitchen.
I served this at a small family get-together and it vanished quicker than any other dessert I brought. That combo of coffee and caramel really gets everyone coming back for more.
What You Need
- Flour (all-purpose): 2 cups for a soft but strong cake base. Fresh is best.
- Sugar (granulated): 1 1/2 cups adds just the right sweet touch. Fine sugar works best.
- Butter (unsalted): 3/4 cup, softened for moist layers and smooth frosting. Soft butter mixes in easier.
- Eggs: 3 large to hold everything together and add richness. Fresh eggs improve flavor and texture.
- Strong brewed coffee: 1 cup, cooled to add the deep coffee flavor. Fresh and strong works best.
- Vanilla: 1 teaspoon to brighten the flavor. Real vanilla yields the best taste.
- Baking powder: 2 teaspoons to help the cake rise and stay fluffy.
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon to balance sweetness and boost flavor.
- Caramel sauce: 1/2 cup for gooey, sweet layers. Homemade or quality store-bought is great.
- Butter (unsalted): 1 1/2 cups, softened for creamy coffee buttercream.
- Powdered sugar: 3 cups smooth out the frosting without graininess.
- Cooled strong brewed coffee: 2 tablespoons in the frosting to keep coffee taste consistent.
- Vanilla: 1 teaspoon in the buttercream to deepen the flavor.
How To Make It
- Prep Oven and Pans
- Set your oven to 350°F. Grease and flour two 9-inch pans well so the cake layers come out clean and easy. This step helps prevent the cake from sticking.
- Beat Butter and Sugar
- Mix 3/4 cup softened butter and the granulated sugar in a big bowl until fluffy and light. Use a mixer on medium speed. This takes about five minutes and adds air for a tender cake.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla
- One by one, mix in the eggs, beating well after each. Stir in the vanilla to boost the flavor.
- Mix Dry Ingredients
- Whisk the flour, baking powder, and salt together in a separate bowl to spread out the rising power evenly.
- Combine Everything
- Add the dry mix to the wet mix slowly, alternating with the cooled coffee. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix gently to keep the batter light—too much mixing can make it dense.
- Bake the Cake
- Divide batter evenly between the pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula and bake 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool the cakes on wire racks before frosting.
- Make the Coffee Buttercream
- Beat 1 1/2 cups softened butter until smooth and creamy. Add powdered sugar slowly, mixing well. Stir in 2 tablespoons cooled coffee and 1 teaspoon vanilla. Beat until fluffy with no lumps.
- Put It Together
- Set one cake layer on a plate. Spread half a cup of caramel sauce over it. Add the second layer and cover the whole cake with the coffee buttercream, smoothing sides and top. Drizzle extra caramel if you like for a nice finish.
My favorite part is the strong brewed coffee because it fills the kitchen with a cozy rich smell. I once served this on a rainy day and the whole house felt warm with that coffee aroma.
Storing Ideas
Keep the cake in an airtight container inside the fridge so the frosting stays firm and fresh. Take it out ahead so it warms up and tastes best. For longer storage wrap it tight in plastic and foil and freeze for up to three months. Let it thaw in the fridge overnight and refresh the frosting a little if needed.
Swap Suggestions
If needed, swap regular flour for a gluten-free mix that has xanthan gum for the right texture. Use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free treat but the taste will be a bit different. Stir in dark chocolate chips for a mocha twist.
Serving Tips
Enjoy a slice with black coffee for a classic pairing or espresso for a stronger kick. A scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side offers a creamy contrast. Fresh berries and toasted nuts add crunch and freshness.
The deep coffee and caramel flavors make this cake a real star for celebrations or chill moments alike. Every bite pairs perfectly with a warm cup of your favorite coffee.
Frequently Asked Cooking Questions
- → How can I get a strong coffee taste without it being bitter?
Make sure to cool down freshly brewed strong coffee completely to avoid any bitterness. You can add a little coffee extract to boost flavor without the harsh aftertaste.
- → Is it okay to make the cake layers ahead of time?
Definitely! You can bake the layers ahead and keep them wrapped in the fridge or freezer so they stay fresh until you're ready to put everything together.
- → What’s the best way to stop the buttercream from melting?
Make sure the brewed coffee you mix into the buttercream is fully cooled. This helps keep the frosting stable and creamy.
- → How do I get the buttercream super smooth and fluffy?
Start by beating softened butter until it’s creamy, then slowly mix in powdered sugar and cooled coffee. Keep mixing until it’s smooth and light without any lumps.
- → Can I swap store-bought caramel sauce for homemade?
Yes, using your own caramel is a great way to customize the sweetness and texture. Just make sure it’s thick enough to spread easily.