The aroma of freshly brewed coffee wafted through my kitchen, a comforting embrace that promised to transform an ordinary afternoon into something special. That’s when the idea for my Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake sparked—an indulgent dessert that combines rich coffee flavors with luscious caramel for a truly unforgettable treat. Perfect for those moments when you crave a unique pick-me-up, this delightful cake not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also impresses guests at any gathering. It’s a fun and quick way to create a comforting dessert that pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Isn’t it time to elevate your baking game with this scrumptious twist on a classic coffee treat?
Why is this cake a must-try?
Indulgent Pleasure: Every bite of this Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake is filled with a delightful mix of rich coffee and sweet caramel that creates an indulgent treat beyond ordinary desserts.
Easy to Create: With simple, everyday ingredients and straightforward instructions, even beginner bakers can craft this delicious cake without stress.
Versatile Options: Want to mix things up? You can make this cake your own by adding nuts for crunch or using espresso for a bolder coffee flavor.
Perfect for Sharing: This cake is the ideal centerpiece for any gathering. Serve it warm and watch your friends and family dive in, especially when paired with a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Quick to Make: In just over an hour, you can go from oven to table, making it a quick and satisfying solution for any sweet craving!
Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake Ingredients
Unlock the secret to this delicious dessert!
For the Cake
- Flour – Essential for providing structure; for a gluten-free version, use gluten-free flour.
- Sugar – Adds sweetness and moisture; brown sugar enhances the caramel flavor.
- Baking Powder & Baking Soda – These are critical leavening agents; ensure they’re fresh for the best rise.
- Salt – Enhances and balances flavor; using kosher salt results in a milder taste.
- Butter (softened) – Contributes richness and moisture; margarine can work as a dairy-free substitute.
- Egg – Acts as a binding agent; aquafaba is a great vegan alternative.
- Brewed Coffee – The flavor backbone of this cake; espresso can be used for a bolder taste.
- Buttermilk – Adds moisture and a touch of tanginess; you can substitute it with Greek yogurt or milk with vinegar.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor; opt for pure vanilla extract for superior quality.
For the Caramel
- Brown Sugar – Provides sweetness and depth; in a pinch, white sugar can be used.
- Heavy Cream – Delivers creaminess for the caramel sauce; feel free to substitute with coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
For the Coffee Drizzle
- Brewed Coffee – Infuses the drizzle with flavor; use strong brewed coffee for the best impact.
- Powdered Sugar – Adds sweetness and allows for easy mixing; there are no real substitutes for this.
Topping Suggestions
- Whipped Cream – A dollop of whipped cream on top makes this indulgent dessert even more delightful.
- Vanilla Ice Cream – A scoop of ice cream elevates the experience and creates the perfect sweet pairing!
Dive into this Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake and satisfy your cravings today!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, grease and flour a 9×9-inch baking pan, ensuring that the surfaces are adequately coated to prevent sticking. This preparation step is crucial for achieving a beautiful, easy-to-remove Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake.
Step 2: Make the Cake Batter
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until combined. In a separate bowl, beat the softened butter and egg together until fluffy, then stir in the brewed coffee, buttermilk, and vanilla extract. Combine the dry ingredients with the wet mixture and mix until smooth, creating a rich batter filled with coffee flavor.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
Pour the prepared batter into your greased baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 4: Prepare the Caramel Sauce
For the luscious caramel sauce, combine brown sugar, butter, and heavy cream in a medium saucepan. Stir the mixture over medium heat until it begins to simmer, about 3–4 minutes. Watch closely as it thickens to the perfect consistency, then mix in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Set the caramel aside to cool slightly before using.
Step 5: Make the Coffee Drizzle
In a bowl, mix together the brewed coffee and powdered sugar until you achieve a smooth drizzle consistency. The glaze should be pourable but thick enough to create beautiful, contrasting patterns when drizzled over the cake. Set this aside while you prepare to assemble the dessert.
Step 6: Assemble the Cake
Once the cooled cake is ready, use a skewer or fork to poke holes gently across the surface—this allows the delicious caramel sauce to seep in. Pour the warm caramel sauce evenly over the cake, ensuring it fills the holes, creating a gooey and indulgent experience, essential for the Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake.
Step 7: Add the Coffee Drizzle
After the caramel has soaked in, carefully drizzle the prepared coffee mixture over the top of the cake, creating decorative lines that enhance visual appeal. This layer adds a delightful finish, introducing even more coffee flavor to your indulgent dessert.
Step 8: Serve & Enjoy
Finally, slice the cake into generous pieces and serve it warm or at room temperature. For an even more decadent treat, top each slice with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Now, gather your loved ones and enjoy the sumptuous layers of your Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake!
Make Ahead Options
These Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the cake itself up to 24 hours in advance and store it, tightly wrapped, at room temperature. Additionally, the caramel sauce can be made up to 3 days ahead; simply refrigerate it in an airtight container until you’re ready to use. To finish the cake, reheat the caramel gently before pouring it over the cake to ensure it remains gooey and delicious. This way, you not only have a delectable dessert ready to go but also save precious time on busy days, making indulgence easy and enjoyable!
What to Serve with Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake?
Create the perfect cozy gathering around this delightful dessert that beautifully captures the essence of rich coffee and sweet caramel.
- Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: The cool creaminess perfectly balances the warm, gooey cake, enhancing the overall indulgence.
- Whipped Cream Delight: A fluffy dollop adds lightness, making every bite of the cake even more decadent and airy.
- Caramel Drizzle: Elevate the cake with extra caramel on top; it’s an irresistible enhancement that highlights the cake’s flavors.
- Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or tart raspberries introduce a refreshing contrast, cutting through the sweetness while adding color.
- Espresso or Coffee: Brew a cup of strong coffee or espresso to intensify the flavors already present in the cake—it’s a coffee lover’s dream!
- Chocolate Ganache: For the chocolate enthusiasts, a warm ganache drizzled on top creates a luscious layer of chocolatey goodness.
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans on top for an added layer of texture that complements the gooey layers of the cake.
- Coconut Whipped Cream: For a lighter, tropical twist, use coconut whipped cream, adding a subtle flavor pairing that your guests will adore.
- Sweet Liqueurs: Pair with a splash of coffee liqueur for an adult dessert experience that enhances each bite, perfect for after-dinner enjoyment.
How to Store and Freeze Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake
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Room Temperature: Store the cake in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain its moistness and flavor.
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Fridge: If you’re keeping it longer, place it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Be sure to use a covered container to prevent drying out.
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Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze the cake for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, to prevent freezer burn.
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Reheating: Thaw the frozen cake in the fridge overnight, and reheat individual slices gently in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for a warm, gooey experience.
Expert Tips for Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature to help them blend better, creating a smoother batter for your Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake.
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Careful Poking: When poking holes in the cake, use a skewer or fork gently to avoid tearing the cake, ensuring the caramel soaks in properly.
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Watch the Caramel: Keep a close eye on your caramel as it cooks; it should bubble gently and thicken without turning too dark to prevent bitterness.
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Cool Properly: Allow your cake to cool completely on a wire rack for the best texture before adding the caramel sauce; this helps maintain the cake’s moisture.
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Adapt the Flavor: Feel free to substitute brewed coffee with espresso for a more intense coffee flavor and consider adding nuts for a delightful crunch.
Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake Variations
Feel free to personalize your indulgent treat with these delightful twists for your Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake!
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Espresso Boost: Swap brewed coffee for espresso for an even bolder coffee flavor that coffee lovers will adore. The richness will elevate each bite.
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Nutty Texture: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter for added crunch and an earthy flavor. These little gems introduce a heartiness that complements the sweetness perfectly.
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Chocolate Delight: Mix in chocolate chips for a luscious chocolate-coffee version. The gooey chocolate melts beautifully alongside the caramel and coffee, creating a marvelous harmony.
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Dairy-Free Option: Replace the heavy cream with coconut cream in the caramel sauce. This adds a tropical hint and makes your cake dairy-free without sacrificing richness.
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Decadent Frosting: Top your cake with a rich chocolate ganache for an extra layer of indulgence. The combination of coffee, caramel, and chocolate takes this dessert to a whole new level!
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Spiced Variation: Enhance the flavor with a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg in the batter. These warm spices weave their charm through the cake, adding depth to each slice.
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Fruit Flare: Blend in seasonal fruits like raspberries or sliced bananas for a burst of freshness. The acidity of the fruit balances the rich flavors beautifully.
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Coffee Liqueur Drizzle: Add a splash of coffee liqueur to the caramel for an adult twist. The distinct flavor will give your cake a sophisticated edge, perfect for gatherings!
Feel inspired? Try these variations and make your Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake uniquely yours! If you’re interested in other scrumptious dessert ideas, consider checking out my delightful Honeybun Carrot Cake or a refreshing Strawberry Cheesecake Dump. Your sweet adventures await!
Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake Recipe FAQs
What type of coffee works best for this cake?
Absolutely! For a robust flavor, I recommend using freshly brewed coffee. If you’re looking for a more intense kick, using espresso is the way to go. It deepens the coffee notes in the cake, making every bite richer and more indulgent.
How do I store leftover Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake?
You can store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week. Just ensure it’s covered to prevent it from drying out. It’s perfect for enjoying a slice later!
Can I freeze the Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake? If so, how?
Certainly! To freeze, wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw the cake in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for that delightful gooeyness!
What should I do if my cake doesn’t rise properly?
Very often, this happens due to old leavening agents. Make sure your baking powder and baking soda are fresh for the best results. Also, be careful not to over-mix your batter, as this can cause the cake to become dense. Remember, a light hand leads to a fluffy cake!
Is there a way to make this cake gluten-free?
Of course! You can easily substitute regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a delicious gluten-free version of the Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake. Just ensure the blend you choose contains xanthan gum or another binding agent for the best texture.
Can I give this cake to my pets?
I advise against sharing this cake with pets, as it contains ingredients like chocolate (if you decide to add chocolate chips) and sugar, which can be harmful to them. It’s always best to stick to treats specifically made for your furry friends!
Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake: Indulge Your Sweet Tooth Today
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×9-inch baking pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until combined.
- In a separate bowl, beat the softened butter and egg together until fluffy, then stir in the brewed coffee, buttermilk, and vanilla extract.
- Combine the dry ingredients with the wet mixture and mix until smooth.
- Pour the prepared batter into your greased baking pan and bake for 25–30 minutes.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.
- For the caramel sauce, combine brown sugar, butter, and heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Stir until simmering and thickened, then mix in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.
- Mix brewed coffee and powdered sugar until smooth for the coffee drizzle.
- Poke holes in the cooled cake and pour the warm caramel sauce evenly over it.
- Drizzle the coffee mixture over the top of the cake.
- Slice the cake and serve it warm or at room temperature, topped with whipped cream or ice cream.