Butterscotch Cake with Caramel Frosting Recipe

If you have a sweet tooth that craves the perfect blend of rich, buttery flavor and smooth, luscious frosting, then you’re in for a real treat with this Butterscotch Cake with Caramel Frosting Recipe. This cake is a warm hug in dessert form, boasting moist layers infused with the deep, buttery essence of butterscotch and topped with a silky caramel frosting that melts in your mouth. It’s a showstopper for any celebration or a cozy weekend indulgence that brightens your day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this irresistible cake. Each component plays a vital role, whether it’s building that tender crumb, balancing sweetness, or delivering that signature butterscotch flavor that makes this recipe unforgettable.

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation that gives the cake its soft yet sturdy structure.
• 1 tsp baking soda: Helps your cake rise beautifully, keeping it light and fluffy.
• 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances all the rich flavors without overpowering the sweetness.
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Provides that creamy, buttery base essential for moistness and flavor depth.
• 1 cup packed brown sugar: Adds moisture and a subtle molasses note crucial for butterscotch taste.
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Balances the brown sugar for perfect sweetness and tenderness.
• 3 large eggs: Bind all the ingredients for impeccable texture and richness.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: Elevates the cake with a hint of aromatic warmth.
• 1 cup butterscotch chips or melted butterscotch (optional): Amplifies the authentic butterscotch flavor for extra indulgence.
• 1 cup buttermilk: Adds tang and moisture, tenderizing the crumb wonderfully.
• For the Caramel Frosting:
• 1 cup unsalted butter: Creates a creamy base for the rich frosting.
• 2 cups packed brown sugar: Supplies the deep caramel flavor that’s essential to the frosting.
• 1/2 cup heavy cream: Blends in to achieve a smooth, luscious consistency.
• 4 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting perfectly.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: Brings a lovely fragrance and balances the caramel notes.
• Pinch of salt: Cuts through the sweetness to enhance the caramel depth.

How to Make Butterscotch Cake with Caramel Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Pans and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch cake pans, ensuring your cakes won’t stick and will come out perfectly shaped. This step is all about setting up your workspace for success.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

Whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt in a bowl. This dry mix will later combine with the wet ingredients to create a balanced, tender cake base.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with both brown and granulated sugars until the mixture gets light and fluffy. This aeration is crucial for a tender crumb and that wonderful buttery flavor.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

One at a time, mix in the eggs, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract to infuse every bite with a subtle fragrant warmth.

Step 5: Incorporate Butterscotch Chips (Optional)

For a delicious boost, fold in your butterscotch chips or melted butterscotch. This step intensifies the signature butterscotch flavor, making the cake extra irresistible.

Step 6: Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Buttermilk

Add the flour mixture and buttermilk alternately to your creamed butter and sugars, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined to keep your cake tender and moist without overworking the batter.

Step 7: Bake the Cake Layers

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The aroma filling your kitchen at this point is pure joy!

Step 8: Cool the Cakes

Let the cakes cool in their pans for 10 minutes, then turn them out onto wire racks to cool completely. Cooling thoroughly is key before frosting so the layers stay intact and the icing doesn’t melt away.

Step 9: Prepare the Caramel Frosting

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in brown sugar and bring the mixture to a boil, cooking it for 2 minutes to develop that deep caramel essence.

Step 10: Finish the Frosting Base

Remove your pan from heat and whisk in the heavy cream slowly. Let it cool slightly—this will ensure your frosting achieves the perfect consistency when combined with powdered sugar.

Step 11: Beat in Powdered Sugar and Flavorings

Transfer your caramel mixture to a mixing bowl and add powdered sugar gradually, beating until smooth and creamy. Stir in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt to round out the flavor beautifully.

Step 12: Frost and Assemble Your Cake

Spread a generous layer of caramel frosting on one cooled cake layer, then top with the second layer. Use the remaining frosting to cover the top and sides, creating a cake that’s as gorgeous as it is delicious.

How to Serve Butterscotch Cake with Caramel Frosting Recipe

Garnishes

Enhance your Butterscotch Cake with Caramel Frosting Recipe by adding toasted pecans or walnuts on top for unexpected crunch and extra nuttiness. A sprinkle of flaky sea salt can also balance the sweetness, making each bite more complex and delightful.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. If you prefer something lighter, fresh berries like raspberries or sliced pears offer a refreshing contrast to the cake’s richness.

Creative Ways to Present

For an eye-catching presentation, consider layering small squares of this cake in clear dessert dishes with layers of whipped cream or caramel drizzle. Alternatively, serve individual slices dusted with powdered sugar and a caramel sauce drip for a café-style treat at home.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once frosted, store your cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If your kitchen is warm, it’s best to refrigerate it, tightly covered, for up to five days to maintain freshness and prevent the frosting from melting.

Freezing

You can freeze both the cake layers and leftover frosting separately. Wrap the layers tightly in plastic wrap and tin foil, freezing for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before frosting or serving for best results.

Reheating

Reheat individual slices briefly in the microwave (about 10-15 seconds) to bring the frosting’s softness back without melting it completely. This makes enjoying your Butterscotch Cake with Caramel Frosting Recipe feel freshly baked every time.

FAQs

Can I make the cake without butterscotch chips?

Absolutely! The butterscotch chips are optional but they add an extra layer of flavor. Without them, your cake will still have a delightful butterscotch essence from the brown sugar and caramel frosting.

How do I know when the cake is done baking?

The best way is to insert a toothpick into the center of the cake layers. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, your cake is perfectly baked.

Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?

Yes, but for the tang that buttermilk brings to the cake, add 1 tbsp of lemon juice or vinegar per cup of milk and let it sit for 5 minutes before using.

How long does the caramel frosting take to set?

Once applied, the frosting firms up slightly within an hour at room temperature, but it’s best enjoyed within a day or two when it’s perfectly creamy.

Is this recipe suitable for a party or large gathering?

Definitely! This Butterscotch Cake with Caramel Frosting Recipe yields two 9-inch layers, ideal for serving about 12 guests. It’s sure to impress your friends and family with both flavor and presentation.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a show-stopping dessert that combines cozy comfort with pure indulgence, this Butterscotch Cake with Caramel Frosting Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. The balance of soft butterscotch warmth and rich caramel frosting creates a cake that’s truly unforgettable. Give it a try—you’ll find it hard to share!

Print