Decadent Caramel Latte Cake with Coffee Buttercream Recipe

If you adore the rich, comforting flavors of coffee and caramel, you are going to fall head over heels for this Decadent Caramel Latte Cake with Coffee Buttercream Recipe. This cake is pure indulgence with its moist layers infused with brewed coffee and swirled with luscious caramel sauce, all topped with a silky, smooth coffee buttercream frosting. Every bite is a celebration of sweetness and bold espresso notes, perfect for any occasion that calls for something spectacularly sweet with a touch of sophistication.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Decadent Caramel Latte Cake with Coffee Buttercream Recipe uses straightforward ingredients that come together to create a dessert bursting with flavor and texture. Each component is carefully chosen to enhance the moistness, depth, and balanced sweetness of the cake and frosting.

• Whole milk: Adds moisture and richness to the cake batter.
• All-purpose flour: The structure builder that gives the cake its tender crumb.
• Unsalted butter (softened): Essential for a creamy texture and buttery flavor in both cake and frosting.
• Caramel sauce: Provides that irresistible gooey sweetness and a hint of buttery caramel flavor.
• Baking powder: Helps the cake rise perfectly without heaviness.
• Baking soda: Works alongside baking powder to create a tender crumb.
• Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances the overall flavors.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens and contributes to cake’s texture.
• Brown sugar: Adds a hint of molasses for depth and moisture.
• Large eggs: Bind ingredients and add richness.
• Vanilla extract: Brings warmth and layers of flavor.
• Strong brewed coffee (cooled): Infuses that unmistakable latte essence throughout the cake and buttercream.
• Powdered sugar: Creates the silky smooth texture in the buttercream.

How to Make Decadent Caramel Latte Cake with Coffee Buttercream Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pans and Oven

Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C), making sure it’s fully preheated for an even bake. Then grease and dust three 8-inch round cake pans with flour to ensure the cakes release effortlessly once baked and cooled.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This step is crucial for evenly distributing the leavening agents, which will help your cake layers rise evenly without any strange bumps or dense spots.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

Using a stand or hand mixer, beat the softened butter and both sugars until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the batter, which makes your cake wonderfully soft and tender.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

One by one, add the eggs into the butter and sugar mixture, beating well after each addition to ensure full incorporation. Following the eggs, stir in the vanilla extract; it’s that little touch that makes all the flavors sing together.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Begin adding the dry ingredient mixture alternately with the milk and cooled brewed coffee, starting and ending with flour. Mix gently until just combined to avoid overworking the batter which can make your cake tough. The coffee here is key, infusing that signature latte flavor while keeping the cake moist.

Step 6: Bake the Cake Layers

Divide your batter evenly into the prepared pans for beautiful, even layers. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. After removing from the oven, let the cakes cool in their pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Patience here is a virtue, especially before frosting!

Step 7: Make the Coffee Buttercream

For the luscious frosting, start by beating softened butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar while mixing, then add the cooled coffee, caramel sauce, and vanilla extract. Beat everything until fluffy and creamy — this frosting will be the crowning glory that ties the whole Decadent Caramel Latte Cake with Coffee Buttercream Recipe together.

Step 8: Assemble and Frost the Cake

Place one cake layer on your serving plate and spread a generous 1/3 cup of caramel sauce on top. Repeat with the second layer and caramel, then add the third cake layer. Frost the entire cake seamlessly with your coffee buttercream, creating a smooth or textured finish — whichever you prefer.

Step 9: Add the Finishing Touch

Drizzle extra caramel sauce over the top edges and center for that irresistible glossy finish that makes this cake a stunner. It’s the perfect visual and flavor flourish before slicing and serving.

How to Serve Decadent Caramel Latte Cake with Coffee Buttercream Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of finely chopped toasted nuts, flaky sea salt, or even a dusting of cocoa powder can elevate the presentation and add complementary textures and flavors to your decadent cake. Fresh berries can also add a pop of color and slight tartness.

Side Dishes

This cake is rich enough to stand on its own, but serving it alongside a scoop of vanilla or coffee ice cream can create an indulgent dessert plate. A freshly brewed cup of coffee or latte pairs perfectly with the cake for a delightful coffee break experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Try plating individual slices with a drizzle of caramel sauce and a sprig of mint for a café-worthy presentation. You could also serve small squares as part of a dessert buffet where guests can nibble on this classic flavor combination in bite-sized pieces. For a whimsical touch, add edible gold leaf or caramel shards on top for a visually stunning cake.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once assembled and frosted, cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. Keep it refrigerated to maintain freshness, and it should stay delicious for up to 4 days.

Freezing

You can freeze the Decadent Caramel Latte Cake with Coffee Buttercream Recipe by wrapping individual cake layers tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before frosting or serving.

Reheating

If you prefer your cake slightly warm, gently warm individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This enhances the caramel and coffee flavors and makes the buttercream a bit softer and more luscious.

FAQs

Can I make this cake dairy-free?

Yes! To make a dairy-free version of the Decadent Caramel Latte Cake with Coffee Buttercream Recipe, swap the whole milk and butter for plant-based alternatives like almond milk and vegan butter. Be sure to select a dairy-free caramel sauce as well.

How strong should the brewed coffee be?

For the best flavor, brew a strong coffee similar to an espresso strength but without the espresso machine. The coffee should be bold enough to be noticeable but not overpower the caramel sweetness.

Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?

Absolutely! A high-quality store-bought caramel sauce works wonderfully and saves time. Just choose one with a rich, buttery flavor and keep it at room temperature for easy spreading.

What if I don’t have three cake pans?

No worries. You can bake the batter in batches if you have fewer pans or use two larger pans and slice the layers horizontally once cooled to create multiple layers.

Is this cake suitable for special occasions?

Definitely! The Decadent Caramel Latte Cake with Coffee Buttercream Recipe is elegant and flavorful, making it perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any celebration where you want to impress your guests with a homemade treat.

Final Thoughts

This Decadent Caramel Latte Cake with Coffee Buttercream Recipe is one of those treasured desserts that feels like a warm hug in cake form. Its harmonious blend of coffee and caramel, wrapped in soft cake layers and topped with irresistibly creamy buttercream, makes every slice a moment to savor and share. Trust me, once you try this cake, it will become a beloved go-to for your dessert cravings or special celebrations. Go ahead, treat yourself and those around you to this sweet masterpiece—you won’t regret it!

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