Decadent 3-Layer Cake with Chocolate Caramel Glaze

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Decadent 3-Layer Cake with Chocolate Caramel Glaze

Summary:

Indulge in this Decadent 3-Layer Cake with Chocolate Caramel Glaze, a show-stopping dessert perfect for birthdays, special occasions, or simply treating yourself. Featuring moist layers of fluffy cake, rich chocolate ganache, and a luscious caramel glaze, this recipe combines the best of both worlds—sweet and salty. Its irresistible texture and luxurious flavors will make it your new favorite cake.

Prep Time: 30 minutes

Cook Time: 40 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Servings: 12 slices

Calories per Serving: 450 kcal

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp baking soda
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
  • 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • 1 cup buttermilk

For the Chocolate Ganache:

  • 200g semi-sweet chocolate (chopped)
  • 1 cup heavy cream

For the Caramel Glaze:

  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 6 tbsp unsalted butter
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • ½ tsp sea salt

Optional Toppings:

  • Crushed caramel candies
  • Sea salt flakes
  • Chocolate shavings

Equipment:

  • Mixing bowls
  • Electric mixer
  • 9-inch round cake pans (x3)
  • Parchment paper
  • Saucepan
  • Wire cooling rack
  • Offset spatula

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cake:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line three 9-inch cake pans with parchment paper.
  2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  3. In another large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
  4. Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
  5. Alternate adding the flour mixture and buttermilk to the wet ingredients, starting and ending with the flour.
  6. Divide the batter evenly between the three pans.
  7. Bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  8. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

2. Make the Chocolate Ganache:

  1. Heat the heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat until it starts to simmer.
  2. Pour the hot cream over the chopped chocolate.
  3. Let it sit for 2 minutes, then whisk until smooth.

3. Prepare the Caramel Glaze:

  1. In a saucepan, melt sugar over medium heat until it turns amber.
  2. Carefully whisk in the butter until combined.
  3. Slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring constantly.
  4. Add sea salt and cook for 1 more minute.
  5. Let it cool slightly before using.

4. Assemble the Cake:

  1. Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a layer of ganache on top.
  2. Repeat with the second layer.
  3. Add the final cake layer and pour the caramel glaze over the top, letting it drip down the sides.
  4. Garnish with crushed caramel candies, sea salt flakes, and chocolate shavings.

Recipe Variations:

  • Nutty Twist: Add chopped pecans or walnuts between the layers.
  • Salted Caramel Version: Increase sea salt in the caramel glaze for a stronger salty-sweet contrast.
  • Chocolate Lover’s Delight: Use dark chocolate for the ganache for a more intense flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

**Q: Can I make the cake layers in advance?**A: Yes! Bake and store the cake layers in an airtight container for up to 2 days before assembling.
**Q: Can I use store-bought caramel?**A: Absolutely, but homemade caramel offers a richer flavor.
**Q: How do I store leftovers?**A: Keep the cake refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

Notes:

  • Ensure the caramel cools slightly before pouring over the cake to avoid melting the ganache.
  • For clean slices, dip your knife in hot water and wipe it between cuts.

Nutritional Info (Per Serving):

  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 52g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Fat: 25g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 110mg
  • Sodium: 260mg
  • Sugar: 38g

Conclusion:

This Decadent 3-Layer Cake with Chocolate Caramel Glaze is a heavenly dessert that’s bound to impress at any gathering. The balance of sweet caramel, rich chocolate, and fluffy cake creates a dessert masterpiece. Perfect for celebrations or an indulgent weekend bake, this cake is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe collection.

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