Step 1: Prepare the Caramel Sauce
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the brown sugar, butter, heavy cream, and a pinch of salt.
- Cook and Stir: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring constantly until the sugar has dissolved and the sauce thickens slightly (about 5-7 minutes).
- Add Vanilla: Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Allow the caramel sauce to cool while you prepare the cake batter.
Step 2: Make the Cake Batter
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the sour cream, vegetable oil, cooled coffee, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
- Divide Batter: Pour the cake batter evenly into the prepared cake pans.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 4: Assemble the Cake
- Layer the Cake: Once the cakes are completely cool, place one cake layer on a serving plate. Drizzle with a generous amount of caramel sauce.
- Add the Second Layer: Place the second cake layer on top of the first. Drizzle more caramel sauce over the top and allow it to drip down the sides.
- Add Chocolate Drizzle: If using, melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth. Drizzle over the cake for an extra touch of indulgence.
Step 5: Serve
- Slice and Serve: Slice the cake into wedges and serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, if desired.
- Enjoy: Share this luscious treat with friends and family, and enjoy the delightful combination of chocolate, caramel, and coffee flavors!
Tips for the Best Chocolate Caramel Coffee Cake
- Sour Cream Substitutes: If you don’t have sour cream, Greek yogurt or buttermilk can be used as a substitute for similar moisture and tang.
- Caramel Sauce: This recipe makes more caramel sauce than you may need, so feel free to save the extra for drizzling over ice cream or pancakes!
- Make It Ahead: The cake can be baked a day in advance. Just keep it wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature until you’re ready to assemble and serve.
- Storage: Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It’s just as delicious chilled!
Conclusion
This Luscious Chocolate Caramel Coffee Cake is a must-try for anyone who enjoys the rich combination of chocolate and caramel. With its moist layers and decadent toppings, this cake is perfect for any gathering or a sweet treat to enjoy at home.
Ready to indulge? Gather your ingredients and get baking! Your taste buds will thank you for this delicious dessert that’s sure to leave everyone craving more. Enjoy every bite of this chocolatey delight!