Salted Caramel Butterscotch Cake

Salted caramel butterscotch cake is a rich, decadent dessert that combines the deep flavors of butterscotch with a luscious salted caramel drizzle. This moist, buttery cake is layered with smooth butterscotch frosting and topped with a homemade caramel sauce that adds the perfect balance of sweetness and saltiness. It’s a show-stopping cake that’s perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any special occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistibly Moist & Buttery – The butterscotch-infused cake is soft and rich in flavor.
• Perfect Sweet-Salty Balance – Salted caramel enhances the butterscotch’s deep sweetness.
• Crowd-Pleasing Dessert – A stunning cake that’s perfect for celebrations.
• Homemade Caramel Sauce – Adds a luxurious, gourmet touch.
• Make-Ahead Friendly – The cake layers and caramel can be made in advance.

Ingredients

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

For the Cake:

• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Baking soda
• Salt
• Unsalted butter
• Brown sugar
• Eggs
• Buttermilk
• Vanilla extract
• Butterscotch chips (melted)

For the Butterscotch Frosting:

• Butter
• Powdered sugar
• Butterscotch sauce
• Heavy cream
• Vanilla extract

For the Salted Caramel Sauce:

• Granulated sugar
• Butter
• Heavy cream
• Sea salt

Directions

Make the Cake:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch cake pans.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients – In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Cream Butter & Sugar – In a separate bowl, beat butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add Eggs & Wet Ingredients – Mix in eggs, vanilla, and buttermilk, then stir in melted butterscotch chips.
5. Combine & Bake – Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Pour batter into cake pans and bake for 25-30 minutes.
6. Cool Completely – Let cakes cool before frosting.

Make the Butterscotch Frosting:

1. Beat butter until smooth, then gradually add powdered sugar.
2. Mix in butterscotch sauce, vanilla, and heavy cream until fluffy.

Make the Salted Caramel Sauce:

1. Heat sugar in a saucepan until melted and golden brown.
2. Stir in butter and heavy cream, then add sea salt. Let cool slightly.

Assemble the Cake:

1. Spread butterscotch frosting between cake layers and over the top and sides.
2. Drizzle salted caramel sauce over the cake, letting it drip down the sides.
3. Garnish with extra butterscotch chips or sea salt if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Makes 12 slices
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

Variations

• Chocolate Twist – Add a layer of chocolate ganache between the cake layers.
• Nutty Crunch – Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top.
• Cupcake Version – Use the batter to make cupcakes and top with frosting and caramel.
• Spiced Butterscotch Cake – Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth.
• Extra Caramel Drizzle – Swirl caramel into the cake batter before baking.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage – Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freezing – Wrap cake layers separately and freeze for up to 3 months. Frost and drizzle caramel after thawing.
• Reheating Caramel – Microwave caramel sauce in 10-second intervals until pourable.

FAQs

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes! You can bake the cake layers a day ahead and store them wrapped in plastic. Assemble and frost before serving.

What’s the best way to melt butterscotch chips?

Melt them in a microwave-safe bowl in 20-second intervals, stirring in between.

How do I prevent my caramel from crystallizing?

Use a clean pan, avoid stirring too much, and add a bit of corn syrup if needed.

Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?

Yes, but homemade caramel has a richer, fresher flavor.

Can I use salted butter instead of adding sea salt?

Yes, but adjust the amount of added salt to avoid making it too salty.

Why did my cake turn out dense?

Overmixing the batter or using too much flour can make it dense. Mix just until combined.

How do I make the frosting smoother?

Add a bit more heavy cream and beat until fluffy and smooth.

Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?

You can, but for best results, mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice as a substitute.

What’s the best way to drizzle caramel sauce on the cake?

Use a spoon or piping bag to create a drip effect along the edges.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, use a gluten-free flour blend that contains xanthan gum.

Conclusion

Salted caramel butterscotch cake is a truly indulgent dessert that balances sweet, salty, and buttery flavors in every bite. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just treating yourself, this cake is sure to impress. Try making it from scratch and enjoy the homemade richness of butterscotch and caramel together!

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