Are you ready to treat yourself to a delicious dessert that is sure to impress? This Gooey Caramel Cake recipe is just the thing! With its rich, sweet caramel flavor and moist, fluffy texture, this cake is a crowd-pleaser. It’s perfect for gatherings, birthdays, or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth. Let’s dive in and create something truly delightful!
Ingredients List
Gather these simple ingredients to get started on your gooey caramel cake:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- ½ cup chopped nuts (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Let’s create this delicious cake step by step. You’re going to love how easy it is!
- Preheat your oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get it nice and hot while you prepare the batter.
- Prepare your baking dish: Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan with butter or cooking spray. This will help the cake come out easily.
- Mix the dry ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This helps to evenly distribute the baking powder.
- Cream the butter and sugar: In another bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until it’s light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the eggs: Crack in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to ensure everything is combined.
- Incorporate the milk and vanilla: Pour in the milk and vanilla extract. Stir until everything is well blended.
- Combine wet and dry: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!
- Add caramel sauce: Fold in about ½ cup of caramel sauce into the batter. This will give your cake that gooey goodness!
- Pour into the pan: Transfer the cake batter into your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Bake: Place the cake in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
- Cool and add more caramel: Once baked, let the cake cool for about 10 minutes. Then, poke holes all over the top with a fork and drizzle the remaining caramel sauce over the cake while it’s still warm. This makes it even more gooey!
Tips for Better Results
Here are some easy tips to ensure your gooey caramel cake turns out perfectly:
- Room temperature ingredients: Make sure your butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature. This helps them mix better and creates a fluffier cake.
- Use good-quality caramel: Whether you buy it or make it yourself, using a rich and tasty caramel sauce will elevate the flavor of your cake.
- Don’t overbake: Keep an eye on your cake to prevent it from drying out. Check it a few minutes before the timer goes off!
- Let it cool slightly: Allowing the cake to cool for a bit before adding the caramel sauce helps it soak in without running off.
- Add a pinch of sea salt: A little sprinkle of sea salt on top of the caramel can enhance the flavor and balance the sweetness.
Variations (Optional Add-ons)
Feel free to get creative with your gooey caramel cake! Here are some fun variations:
- Nuts: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a crunchy texture.
- Chocolate chips: Mix in some chocolate chips for a delightful chocolate-caramel combination.
- Fruit: Fold in diced apples or pears for a fruity twist.
- Spices: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, cozy flavor.
Serving Suggestions
How you serve this cake can make it even more special! Here are some ideas:
- Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for a delicious dessert.
- Drizzle with additional caramel sauce and sprinkle with nuts for extra flair.
- Pair it with a cup of coffee or tea for a lovely afternoon treat.
Conclusion
This Gooey Caramel Cake is sure to become a favorite in your home. With its simple ingredients and easy steps, you can whip up a delightful dessert that everyone will love. So, gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and let’s bake this delicious cake together! You won’t regret it!