Name: Caramel Coffee Layer Cake Slice
Prep time: 40 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 2 tsp baking powder; 1 tsp baking soda; 1 tsp salt; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 cup vegetable oil; 2 large eggs; 1 cup buttermilk; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup strong brewed coffee (cooled); 1 cup mascarpone or cream cheese; 1 cup dulce de leche or thick caramel sauce; 2 tbsp instant coffee (dissolved in 1 tbsp hot water); 1 cup cold heavy cream; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1/2 cup sugar; 2 tbsp water; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 2 tbsp unsalted butter; 1/2 tsp sea salt; Whipped caramel frosting swirl; Coffee beans or chocolate-coated espresso beans; Crushed cookies or cake crumbs

Why Make This Recipe

Caramel Coffee Layer Cake Slice is a delightful dessert that combines rich coffee flavors with creamy caramel and smooth cake layers. This cake is perfect for coffee lovers and anyone who enjoys a sweet treat. It’s great for gatherings, birthdays, or even just a cozy afternoon at home. The layers of cake and cream create a beautiful presentation, making it a showstopper for any occasion.

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How to Make Caramel Coffee Layer Cake Slice

Ingredients

1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp salt
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs
1 cup buttermilk
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup strong brewed coffee (cooled)
1 cup mascarpone or cream cheese
1 cup dulce de leche or thick caramel sauce
2 tbsp instant coffee (dissolved in 1 tbsp hot water)
1 cup cold heavy cream
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1/2 cup sugar
2 tbsp water
1/2 cup heavy cream
2 tbsp unsalted butter
1/2 tsp sea salt
Whipped caramel frosting swirl
Coffee beans or chocolate-coated espresso beans
Crushed cookies or cake crumbs

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line three 8-inch baking pans. In a bowl, mix together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, whisk together sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, vanilla extract, and buttermilk. Add the cooled coffee and mix well. Gradually add the dry ingredients and whisk until smooth. Divide the batter evenly into the pans and bake for 25-30 minutes. Allow cooling completely.
While the cake cools, whip the cold heavy cream and powdered sugar in a bowl until you reach soft peaks. In another bowl, beat together the mascarpone, dulce de leche, and dissolved coffee. Gently fold in the whipped cream with the caramel mixture until fluffy. Chill this mixture in the fridge for 20 minutes.
In a small saucepan, melt the sugar and water over medium heat until it turns amber in color. Remove from heat and immediately add the heavy cream, butter, and sea salt. Stir until smooth and let it cool before using.
Once the cake layers are completely cool, layer the cake by spreading the caramel coffee cream between each layer. Chill the cake for 30 minutes to help it firm up.
Pour the cooled caramel drip over the top of the cake. Decorate with piped whipped cream, coffee beans, and cookie crumbs for a finishing touch.

How to Serve Caramel Coffee Layer Cake Slice

Serve the Caramel Coffee Layer Cake Slice chilled or at room temperature. It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. You can slice the cake into smaller pieces for easier serving, especially if you’re sharing it at a party or gathering.

How to Store Caramel Coffee Layer Cake Slice

To store the cake, keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This keeps it fresh for up to five days. If you’ve placed whipped cream or any decoration on top, make sure to cover it carefully to prevent any mess.

Tips to Make Caramel Coffee Layer Cake Slice

Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results.
Allow the cake layers to cool completely before assembling to prevent the cream from melting.
You can make the caramel sauce a day ahead to save time on the day you plan to serve the cake.
Feel free to adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of sugar or dulce de leche used.

Variation

For a different flavor, consider replacing the coffee with espresso or adding nuts like crushed walnuts or pecans to the cream mixture for added texture.

FAQs

1. Can I use regular cream instead of mascarpone?
Yes, you can use cream cheese or any thick cream in place of mascarpone.

2. How long does this cake last in the fridge?
The cake can last up to five days when stored properly in the refrigerator.

3. Can I freeze this cake?
Yes, you can freeze the cake for up to three months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap before freezing.