This Salted Caramel Butterscotch Cake is a decadent dessert that combines the rich flavors of butterscotch and caramel with a perfect balance of sweet and salty. With moist cake layers, luscious caramel frosting, and a drizzle of homemade salted caramel sauce, this cake is a showstopper for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfectly moist and flavorful cake with butterscotch and caramel notes
• A delightful balance of sweet and salty flavors
• Great for birthdays, holidays, or special gatherings
• Can be made ahead and stored for convenience
• Customizable with different toppings and fillings

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Cake:

• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Baking soda
• Salt
• Unsalted butter
• Brown sugar
• Granulated sugar
• Eggs
• Vanilla extract
• Butterscotch pudding mix
• Whole milk
• Heavy cream

For the Salted Caramel Frosting:

• Unsalted butter
• Powdered sugar
• Heavy cream
• Vanilla extract
• Homemade or store-bought salted caramel sauce

For the Salted Caramel Sauce:

• Granulated sugar
• Unsalted butter
• Heavy cream
• Sea salt

Directions

1. Prepare the Cake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch cake pans.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Cream Butter and Sugars: Beat butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add Wet Ingredients: Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla extract and butterscotch pudding mix.
5. Combine Ingredients: Alternately add the dry ingredients and milk, mixing until just combined.
6. Bake: Divide batter among cake pans and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let cool completely.
7. Make the Salted Caramel Sauce: In a saucepan, melt sugar until golden. Add butter, then slowly pour in heavy cream while stirring. Add sea salt and let cool.
8. Prepare the Frosting: Beat butter until creamy, then gradually add powdered sugar. Mix in heavy cream, vanilla, and salted caramel sauce.
9. Assemble the Cake: Spread frosting between cake layers and over the entire cake. Drizzle with extra salted caramel sauce.
10. Serve and Enjoy: Let the cake set before slicing and serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 10-12 slices
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Cooling Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: Approximately 2 hours

Variations

• Nutty Addition: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts between layers for a crunchy texture.
• Chocolate Twist: Drizzle melted chocolate over the top for an extra indulgent touch.
• Spiced Flavor: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm spice undertone.
• Different Frosting: Swap the salted caramel frosting for a classic vanilla buttercream if preferred.

Storage/Reheating

• Room Temperature: Keep covered at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Freezer: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Let chilled cake sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before serving.

FAQs

How do I keep my cake moist?

Use full-fat dairy ingredients, do not overbake, and store properly to retain moisture.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cake layers a day ahead and store them wrapped until ready to frost.

What can I use instead of butterscotch pudding mix?

You can substitute with vanilla pudding mix and add extra butterscotch extract.

Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?

Yes, but homemade caramel sauce offers the best flavor and consistency.

How do I prevent my caramel from crystallizing?

Avoid stirring while the sugar is melting, and use a clean, dry pan.

What’s the best way to frost the cake?

Use an offset spatula and apply a crumb coat before fully frosting for a smoother finish.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.

Can I make this cake dairy-free?

Use dairy-free butter, almond milk, and coconut cream as substitutes.

What pairs well with this cake?

It pairs beautifully with vanilla ice cream or a cup of strong coffee.

Can I make cupcakes instead of a cake?

Yes, divide the batter into cupcake liners and bake for about 18-20 minutes.

Conclusion

Salted Caramel Butterscotch Cake is the ultimate dessert for those who love the rich flavors of caramel and butterscotch with a hint of salt. Whether for a special celebration or simply to satisfy your sweet cravings, this cake is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Try it today and enjoy every delicious bite!

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