This rich and indulgent chocolate caramel layer cake is perfect for chocolate lovers. With moist chocolate cake layers, creamy cheesecake filling, and a luscious caramel drizzle, this cake is an irresistible showstopper for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Chocolate Cake:
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 cup cocoa powder
1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
½ teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup granulated sugar
½ cup brown sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup buttermilk
½ cup hot coffee (or hot water)
For the Cheesecake Layer:
16 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup heavy whipping cream
For the Caramel Sauce:
1 cup granulated sugar
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
½ cup heavy cream
½ teaspoon sea salt
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chocolate Cake
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
In a separate bowl, beat butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
Gradually alternate adding dry ingredients and buttermilk, mixing until just combined. Stir in hot coffee to create a smooth batter.
Divide the batter evenly into prepared pans and bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool completely.
2. Make the Cheesecake Layer
In a bowl, beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture.
3. Prepare the Caramel Sauce
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt sugar, stirring constantly until golden brown. Add butter, stirring until fully melted. Slowly pour in heavy cream, whisking continuously. Stir in sea salt and let the caramel cool slightly.
4. Assemble the Cake
Place one chocolate cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of cheesecake filling over the cake. Drizzle with caramel sauce.
Place the second cake layer on top and frost the cake with the remaining cheesecake filling. Drizzle additional caramel sauce over the top and let it slightly drip down the sides.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Slice and serve chilled or at room temperature.
Tips for the Best Chocolate Caramel Cake
Use room temperature ingredients for a smooth batter and filling.
Chill the cake for at least 1 hour before slicing for clean layers.
Sprinkle chocolate shavings or caramelized nuts on top for extra texture.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container.
This Decadent Chocolate Caramel Layer Cake is the ultimate indulgence, combining rich chocolate, creamy cheesecake, and buttery caramel into every bite. Whether for birthdays, celebrations, or special occasions, this cake is sure to impress. Enjoy!