Decadent Caramel Cake

A rich, moist chocolate cake layered and soaked with caramel and sweetened condensed milk, finished with a drizzle of chocolate sauce.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Deep chocolate flavor enhanced by coffee for richness.
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Sweet and gooey caramel paired with creamy condensed milk.
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Easy to assemble with layers and drizzle for an impressive presentation.
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Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or special occasions.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
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1¾ cups all-purpose flour
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¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
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2 cups granulated sugar
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2 eggs
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1½ teaspoons baking powder
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1½ teaspoons baking soda
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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Pinch of salt
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1 cup milk
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1 cup brewed coffee, cooled
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½ cup vegetable oil
For the Filling & Topping:
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1 jar caramel sauce (12.25 oz)
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1 can sweetened condensed milk (14 oz)
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Chocolate sauce for garnish
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 12 servings
Directions
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
Sift together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk sugar, eggs, vanilla, milk, coffee, and oil until combined.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry
Gradually mix wet ingredients into dry until smooth.
Step 5: Bake Cakes
Divide batter between pans and bake 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool in pans 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
Step 6: Layer and Drizzle
Place one cake layer on a plate; drizzle with caramel sauce and sweetened condensed milk. Add second layer and repeat drizzle.
Step 7: Garnish
Garnish with chocolate sauce. Let sit 30 minutes before serving.
Tips & Variations
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Brewed coffee intensifies chocolate flavor; for a milder taste, use strong hot water instead.
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For extra richness, lightly warm caramel before drizzling.
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Top with chopped nuts or whipped cream for added texture and presentation.
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Store leftovers covered at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerate up to 4 days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use regular milk instead of coffee?
Yes, but coffee enhances the chocolate depth.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, bake the layers and store wrapped in the fridge. Assemble and drizzle on serving day.
Can I freeze this cake?
Yes, wrap tightly and freeze baked layers without drizzle for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before layering.
Can I use a different caramel sauce?
Yes, homemade or store-bought caramel works; just adjust sweetness to taste.
Final Thoughts
This Decadent Caramel Cake is a show-stopper — moist chocolate layers soaked with sweet caramel and condensed milk, topped with chocolate drizzle for the perfect balance of flavors. Ideal for celebrations or any time you crave a rich, indulgent dessert.