Dulce de Leche Cake

Dulce de Leche Cake is a luscious dessert featuring tender layers of moist cake filled and frosted with creamy, caramel-like dulce de leche. Rich, sweet, and incredibly indulgent, it’s perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any time you want to impress. Each bite melts in your mouth with deep caramel flavor and soft, buttery texture.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

all-purpose floursugarunsalted buttereggsbaking powdersaltvanilla extractwhole milkdulce de leche (for filling and frosting)heavy cream (optional for lightening the frosting)

directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans.

In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

Add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture in batches, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined.

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn them out onto wire racks to cool completely.

For the frosting, combine dulce de leche with a bit of heavy cream if needed to reach a spreadable consistency.

Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of dulce de leche over the top.

Place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides with the remaining dulce de leche.

Optional: Decorate with swirls of whipped cream, chopped nuts, or a sprinkle of sea salt.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 10-12 servings.Preparation time: 20 minutesBaking time: 25-30 minutesCooling and assembly time: 40 minutesTotal time: about 1 hour 30 minutes

Variations

Add a layer of sliced bananas or cooked apples between the cake layers.

Mix a little cinnamon or espresso powder into the frosting for extra depth.

Use chocolate cake layers for a dulce de leche-choco combo.

Top with toasted coconut or pecan pieces for added crunch.

Create a naked cake look by lightly frosting the sides.

storage/reheating

Store the cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Bring to room temperature before serving for best texture.Not recommended for freezing once assembled due to the dulce de leche frosting.

FAQs

What is dulce de leche?

It’s a sweet, caramel-like spread made by slowly heating sweetened condensed milk.

Can I make the cake layers in advance?

Yes, the layers can be baked a day ahead and kept wrapped at room temperature or refrigerated.

Is the frosting too sweet?

Dulce de leche is naturally sweet, but you can balance it with unsweetened whipped cream or a pinch of sea salt.

Can I use a boxed cake mix?

Yes, a yellow or vanilla mix works well if you want a shortcut.

Can I fill it with something else?

Yes, you can combine dulce de leche with cream cheese or whipped cream for a different texture.

Do I need to refrigerate the cake?

Yes, because of the dairy content in the frosting.

How do I make dulce de leche at home?

Simmer a can of sweetened condensed milk for 2-3 hours or bake it in a water bath until thick and golden.

Conclusion

Dulce de Leche Cake is a showstopping dessert that layers rich, buttery cake with the irresistible flavor of caramel. Easy to make and endlessly versatile, it’s a sweet celebration in every bite. Whether for a party or just a personal indulgence, this cake brings warmth and delight to any table.

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