15 Steps to Best Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake Recipe

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15 Steps to Best Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake Recipe

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Are you craving something indulgent that combines the rich flavor of coffee with the sweet, buttery taste of caramel? Look no further than this irresistible Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake Recipe. This delectable dessert features a moist coffee-infused cake base topped with a luscious caramel sauce that seeps into every bite, creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, celebrating a special occasion, or simply treating yourself, this Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake Recipe will surely impress and satisfy your sweet tooth.

Why You’ll Love This Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake Recipe

  • Ready in under an hour – Perfect for last-minute dessert cravings!
  • Simple ingredients – Most likely already in your pantry
  • No advanced baking skills required – Ideal for beginners and experienced bakers alike
  • Rich coffee flavor – Deep, aromatic taste that coffee lovers will adore
  • Irresistible gooey texture – The caramel sauce creates a moist, pudding-like center
  • Make-ahead friendly – Can be prepared in advance for stress-free entertaining
  • Versatile serving options – Enjoy warm with ice cream or at room temperature with coffee

The Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake Recipe combines two beloved flavors in one decadent dessert. Whether you’re looking for the best coffee caramel cake recipe for a special occasion or simply want to treat yourself to something delicious, this recipe delivers exceptional results every time.

Ingredients for Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake Recipe

For the Cake Base:

  • 1¾ cups all-purpose flour (for gluten-free option, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend)
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 tablespoon instant coffee granules dissolved in 2 tablespoons hot water
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ cup milk

For the Gooey Caramel Layer:

  • 1 cup packed brown sugar
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon coffee extract (optional but enhances the coffee flavor)
  • ¼ teaspoon salt

For Serving (Optional):

  • Vanilla ice cream
  • Whipped cream
  • Extra caramel sauce
  • Crushed coffee beans for garnish
15 Steps to Best Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake Recipe
15 Steps to Best Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake Recipe

How to Make Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake Recipe – Step by Step

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray and line with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures even distribution of leavening agents throughout your coffee cake.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. This step incorporates air into the batter, resulting in a lighter cake texture.

Step 4: Add the Wet Ingredients

Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Add the dissolved coffee mixture and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the flour mixture (flour → milk → flour → milk → flour). Mix just until combined – overmixing can make your coffee caramel cake dense.

Step 6: Make the Caramel Layer

In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the brown sugar, heavy cream, butter, coffee extract (if using), and salt. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is smooth, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat.

Step 7: Assemble the Cake

Pour the cake batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Carefully pour the hot caramel mixture over the cake batter. Don’t stir – the caramel will create a gooey layer that partially sinks during baking.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the cake is set around the edges but still slightly jiggly in the center. The caramel will create a gooey pudding-like layer beneath a cake-like top.

Step 9: Cool Slightly

Allow the Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake to cool for 15-20 minutes before serving. This gives the caramel time to set slightly while still remaining wonderfully gooey.

Pro Tips for Making the Best Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake Recipe

  • Enhance the coffee flavor: For a stronger coffee taste, increase the instant coffee granules to 2 tablespoons or add 1 teaspoon of espresso powder.
  • Caramel consistency: For a thicker caramel layer, refrigerate the caramel sauce for 10-15 minutes before pouring over the cake batter.
  • Prevent overbaking: Watch the cake carefully during the last few minutes of baking. Overbaking will result in less of the desirable gooey texture.
  • Room temperature ingredients: Make sure your eggs, butter, and milk are at room temperature for the best texture and even baking.
  • Coffee substitution: If you prefer a non-caffeinated version, decaf coffee works perfectly without sacrificing flavor.
  • Salted caramel variation: Add an extra ¼ teaspoon of sea salt to the caramel for a salted caramel twist.

Best Ways to Serve Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake

The ultimate way to enjoy Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake is warm from the oven with a scoop of vanilla ice cream that melts into the warm, gooey center. The contrast between the hot cake and cold ice cream creates a delightful sensory experience.

For coffee enthusiasts, serve with a shot of espresso or a cup of freshly brewed coffee to complement the cake’s coffee flavor. A dollop of whipped cream and a light dusting of cocoa powder or cinnamon adds an elegant touch.

For an extra indulgent dessert, drizzle additional warm caramel sauce over the top just before serving. Pair with a glass of dessert wine such as Moscato or a creamy Irish cream liqueur for special occasions.

This cake also makes an excellent brunch treat when served with a fruit salad to balance the sweetness.

Nutritional Information for Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake

(Per serving, assuming 9 servings per cake)

  • Calories: 420 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 58g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Fat: 21g
  • Saturated Fat: 13g
  • Cholesterol: 95mg
  • Sodium: 210mg
  • Potassium: 145mg
  • Fiber: 0.5g
  • Sugar: 42g

Please note that nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

Storage & Leftovers

Your Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake will stay fresh for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 5 days, though the gooey texture is best enjoyed within the first 2 days.

To reheat refrigerated cake, microwave individual portions for 20-30 seconds until just warm. Alternatively, place in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 10 minutes to gently warm through.

While you can freeze this cake for up to 2 months, the gooey texture may change slightly upon thawing. To freeze, wrap individual portions in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and place in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

15 Steps to Best Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake Recipe
15 Steps to Best Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake Recipe

FAQs for Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake Recipe

Can I make this Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake Recipe ahead of time?

Yes! This Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake Recipe actually develops deeper flavors when made a day in advance. Prepare as directed, cool completely, then cover and store at room temperature overnight. Reheat individual slices briefly in the microwave before serving for that fresh-baked gooey texture.

Can I use brewed coffee instead of instant coffee?

While instant coffee provides concentrated flavor without excess liquid, you can substitute 2 tablespoons of very strong brewed coffee or espresso. If using brewed coffee, reduce the milk by 2 tablespoons to maintain the proper batter consistency.

Is this cake supposed to be undercooked in the center?

The center isn’t undercooked but intentionally gooey due to the caramel sauce. The coffee cake should be set around the edges but have a soft, pudding-like center. This creates the signature “gooey” texture that makes this dessert special.

Can I make this cake dairy-free?

Yes, you can make a dairy-free version of this Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake by substituting plant-based butter, coconut cream instead of heavy cream, and your favorite non-dairy milk. The texture may be slightly different, but it will still be delicious!

Related Recipes

If you love this Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake Recipe, try these other delicious desserts:

Conclusion & Your Turn to Bake

Now you know how to make the best Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake Recipe right in your own kitchen! This indulgent dessert combines the rich, aromatic flavor of coffee with the sweet, buttery taste of caramel to create a truly memorable treat. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or simply indulging your sweet tooth, this Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake Recipe is sure to become a favorite in your collection.

Have you tried making this Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake Recipe? Let us know in the comments below how it turned out! Did you add any special touches or variations? We’d love to hear about your baking experience and see photos of your creation. Don’t forget to share this recipe with fellow coffee and caramel lovers!

Recipe adapted from the original at Recipes by Lina.

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15 Steps to Best Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake Recipe

15 Steps to Best Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake Recipe


  • Author: basmer
  • Total Time: 50
  • Yield: 9 servings 1x

Description

This delectable Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake features a moist coffee-infused cake base topped with a luscious caramel sauce that seeps into every bite, creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, celebrating a special occasion, or simply treating yourself, this irresistible dessert will surely impress and satisfy your sweet tooth.


Ingredients

Scale
  • For the Cake Base:
    • 1¾ cups all-purpose flour (for gluten-free option, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend)
    • 2 teaspoons baking powder
    • ½ teaspoon salt
    • ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
    • 1 cup granulated sugar
    • 2 large eggs, room temperature
    • 1 tablespoon instant coffee granules dissolved in 2 tablespoons hot water
    • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
    • ½ cup milk
  • For the Gooey Caramel Layer:
    • 1 cup packed brown sugar
    • ½ cup heavy cream
    • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
    • 1 teaspoon coffee extract (optional but enhances the coffee flavor)
    • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • For Serving (Optional):
    • Vanilla ice cream
    • Whipped cream
    • Extra caramel sauce
    • Crushed coffee beans for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray and line with parchment paper for easy removal.
  2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures even distribution of leavening agents throughout your coffee cake.
  3. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. This step incorporates air into the batter, resulting in a lighter cake texture.
  4. Add the Wet Ingredients: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Add the dissolved coffee mixture and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
  5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the flour mixture (flour → milk → flour → milk → flour). Mix just until combined – overmixing can make your coffee caramel cake dense.
  6. Make the Caramel Layer: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the brown sugar, heavy cream, butter, coffee extract (if using), and salt. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is smooth, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat.
  7. Assemble the Cake: Pour the cake batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Carefully pour the hot caramel mixture over the cake batter. Don’t stir – the caramel will create a gooey layer that partially sinks during baking.
  8. Bake to Perfection: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the cake is set around the edges but still slightly jiggly in the center. The caramel will create a gooey pudding-like layer beneath a cake-like top.
  9. Cool Slightly: Allow the Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake to cool for 15-20 minutes before serving. This gives the caramel time to set slightly while still remaining wonderfully gooey.

Notes

  • Enhance the coffee flavor: For a stronger coffee taste, increase the instant coffee granules to 2 tablespoons or add 1 teaspoon of espresso powder.
  • Caramel consistency: For a thicker caramel layer, refrigerate the caramel sauce for 10-15 minutes before pouring over the cake batter.
  • Prevent overbaking: Watch the cake carefully during the last few minutes of baking. Overbaking will result in less of the desirable gooey texture.
  • Room temperature ingredients: Make sure your eggs, butter, and milk are at room temperature for the best texture and even baking.
  • Coffee substitution: If you prefer a non-caffeinated version, decaf coffee works perfectly without sacrificing flavor.
  • Salted caramel variation: Add an extra ¼ teaspoon of sea salt to the caramel for a salted caramel twist.
  • Prep Time: 15
  • Cook Time: 35
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 420
  • Sugar: 42
  • Sodium: 210
  • Fat: 21
  • Saturated Fat: 13
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7
  • Trans Fat: 0
  • Carbohydrates: 58
  • Fiber: 0.5
  • Protein: 4
  • Cholesterol: 95

Keywords: gooey coffee caramel cake recipe, coffee cake, caramel cake, coffee dessert, gooey cake, coffee caramel dessert

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