A Chocolate Fudge Cake with Salted Caramel is the perfect indulgence for any occasion. This cake is rich, moist, and drizzled with homemade salted caramel that perfectly balances the sweetness of the chocolate. Follow this detailed step-by-step guide to bake a cake that will impress everyone.
Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Fudge Cake with Salted Caramel
✔ Ultra-moist texture – thanks to butter, sour cream, and cocoa powder.
✔ Rich, deep chocolate flavor – intensified with melted chocolate and coffee.
✔ Perfectly balanced sweetness – with homemade salted caramel drizzle.
✔ Easy to make – No fancy equipment needed, just basic baking tools.
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients for Chocolate Fudge Cake with Salted Caramel
For the Cake
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups | Provides structure |
| Unsweetened cocoa powder | ¾ cup | Adds deep chocolate flavor |
| Baking powder | 1 ½ tsp | Helps the cake rise |
| Baking soda | 1 tsp | Reacts with acids for fluffiness |
| Salt | ½ tsp | Enhances flavor |
| Granulated sugar | 1 ½ cups | Sweetens and adds moisture |
| Brown sugar | ½ cup | Gives extra richness |
| Unsalted butter (softened) | ½ cup | Adds moisture and flavor |
| Vegetable oil | ¼ cup | Keeps the cake tender |
| Eggs | 3 large | Provides structure |
| Vanilla extract | 2 tsp | Enhances the flavor |
| Sour cream | ½ cup | Ensures a moist texture |
| Hot coffee (or hot water) | 1 cup | Intensifies chocolate flavor |
For the Salted Caramel Sauce
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Granulated sugar | 1 cup | Forms caramel base |
| Unsalted butter (cubed) | 6 tbsp | Adds creaminess |
| Heavy cream | ½ cup | Creates smooth texture |
| Sea salt | 1 tsp | Balances sweetness |
Step 2: Prepare the Chocolate Cake Batter
1. Preheat & Prepare
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and line two 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients
- In a large bowl, whisk together:
✅ Flour
✅ Cocoa powder
✅ Baking powder
✅ Baking soda
✅ Salt
3. Cream the Butter & Sugars
- In another large mixing bowl, beat butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy (about 2 minutes).
- Add vegetable oil, eggs (one at a time), and vanilla extract. Mix well.
4. Add Sour Cream & Dry Ingredients
- Gently mix in sour cream.
- Gradually add dry ingredients, alternating with hot coffee.
- Stir until just combined (don’t overmix!).
Step 3: Bake the Cake
- Divide the batter evenly between two cake pans.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
Step 4: Make the Salted Caramel
1. Melt the Sugar
- In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, heat 1 cup of sugar over medium heat.
- Stir continuously until it melts and turns golden brown.
2. Add Butter
- Once the sugar is fully melted, add butter cubes one at a time.
- Stir until fully combined.
3. Pour in Heavy Cream
- Slowly pour in heavy cream while stirring constantly.
- Let it bubble for about 1 minute until smooth.
4. Add Salt & Cool
- Remove from heat and stir in sea salt.
- Let cool before using.
Step 5: Assemble the Cake
1. Layer the Cake
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate.
- Drizzle ½ cup of salted caramel over the top.
- Add the second cake layer.
2. Frost & Decorate
- Pour more salted caramel sauce over the cake, allowing it to drip down the sides.
- Sprinkle with sea salt flakes for an elegant finish.
3. Chill & Serve
- Let the cake set in the fridge for 30 minutes before slicing.
- Serve with whipped cream or ice cream.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Chocolate Fudge Cake with Salted Caramel
1. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! You can bake the cake layers a day in advance. Wrap them in plastic and store at room temperature.
2. How do I store leftover cake?
- Room Temperature: 2 days in an airtight container.
- Refrigerator: Up to 5 days.
- Freezer: Wrap slices tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
3. Can I use store-bought caramel instead?
Yes, but homemade tastes much better! If using store-bought, warm it slightly before drizzling over the cake.
4. What if my caramel is too thick?
- Reheat it gently on the stove over low heat.
- Stir in 1-2 tbsp of heavy cream to thin it out.
5. Can I substitute sour cream?
Yes! Use Greek yogurt or buttermilk instead.
Final Thoughts about Chocolate Fudge Cake with Salted Caramel
This Chocolate Fudge Cake with Salted Caramel is the ultimate dessert for chocolate lovers! The combination of moist chocolate cake and creamy caramel drizzle creates a treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
Try this recipe today, and let me know how it turns out!
Looking for more indulgent desserts? Check out other amazing recipes on My Worldwide Recipe!