Salted Caramel Chocolate Cake

Name: Salted Caramel Chocolate Cake
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 10 servings
Ingredients: 1 and 3/4 cups all-purpose flour; 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 2 cups granulated sugar; 1 and 1/2 teaspoons baking powder; 1 and 1/2 teaspoons baking soda; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 large eggs; 1 cup whole milk; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 cup boiling water; 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature; 4 cups powdered sugar; 1/2 cup salted caramel sauce; 2 tablespoons heavy cream; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Sea salt for topping

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Experience the perfect blend of rich chocolate and luscious salted caramel in this decadent Salted Caramel Chocolate Cake. This show-stopping dessert is layered with moist chocolate cake and velvety salted caramel frosting, making it an unforgettable treat for any occasion. With its stunning presentation and irresistible flavors, this cake is sure to be the highlight of your dessert table.

Created by

Violet Hart

Last updated on 2025-11-22T09:48:12.560Z

This Salted Caramel Chocolate Cake is a combination of two beloved flavors that creates a harmonious dessert experience. The moist chocolate cake layers are filled with rich salted caramel frosting, making it a truly decadent treat.

        You'll Love This Cake Because
        Rich chocolate flavor.
Luscious salted caramel frosting.
Stunning presentation for any occasion.

      

A Decadent Dessert for All Occasions

This Salted Caramel Chocolate Cake is not just a dessert; it's a centerpiece that captivates both the eyes and the palate. The rich chocolate layers paired with the smooth salted caramel create a symphony of flavors that elevate any celebration. Whether it's a birthday party, an anniversary, or a casual gathering with friends, this cake serves as a perfect treat that everyone will adore.

The combination of textures—from the soft, moist chocolate cake to the creamy, slightly gritty salted caramel frosting—makes each bite an experience of its own. As you slice into this beautiful cake, you'll find it not only looks stunning but also delivers a delightful contrast of rich sweetness and subtle saltiness.

Perfect for Homemade Celebrations

Making this Salted Caramel Chocolate Cake at home is a rewarding endeavor that brings joy to both the baker and the guests. If you’re looking to impress your family or friends, this cake is an excellent opportunity to showcase your baking skills. The layers of rich chocolate cake paired with the luxurious frosting will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Another great thing about this cake is its versatility. You can serve it as is for a classic presentation, or you can personalize it with your favorite toppings, such as chocolate shavings, fresh fruits, or even more caramel sauce drizzled on top.

Bake with Confidence

If you're new to baking, fear not! This recipe is straightforward, ensuring that even novice bakers can create a cake that looks and tastes incredible. The detailed steps make the process approachable, guiding you through each stage with ease. Plus, the use of simple ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen makes this cake an inviting option for anyone.

With just a little practice, you'll master this delicious Salted Caramel Chocolate Cake, and its success will build your confidence in the kitchen. Remember, the secret lies in following the instructions closely and allowing the cake layers to cool completely before frosting to achieve that perfect finish.

Ingredients

Gather all the ingredients before you start.

For the Cake

1 and 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
2 cups granulated sugar
1 and 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1 and 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
2 large eggs
1 cup whole milk
1/2 cup vegetable oil
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup boiling water

For the Salted Caramel Frosting

1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
4 cups powdered sugar
1/2 cup salted caramel sauce
2 tablespoons heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Sea salt for topping

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature.

Instructions

Follow these steps to make the cake.

Prepare the Cake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.

In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix well.

Add eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Mix until combined and then stir in boiling water.

Pour the batter into the prepared pans and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Make the Frosting

In a separate bowl, beat the butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and beat until combined.

Add the caramel sauce, heavy cream, and vanilla. Beat until light and fluffy.

Assemble the Cake

Once the cakes are cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of frosting on top, then place the second layer on top.

Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting and sprinkle with sea salt.

Allow the cake to set before serving.

Tips for the Perfect Cake

To ensure a perfectly baked cake, be sure to measure your ingredients accurately. Using a kitchen scale for dry ingredients like flour and cocoa powder can improve the texture and taste of your cake. Also, always use room temperature eggs and butter, as they blend more easily and create a better rise in your cake.

Letting your cakes cool completely before frosting is crucial to prevent the frosting from melting. After baking, let the cakes rest in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before decorating for the best results.

Storing Your Cake

If you have leftovers, storing your cake properly will maintain its deliciousness. Keep the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Alternatively, you can refrigerate it for up to a week, but bring it to room temperature before serving for a softer texture.

For longer storage, consider freezing the cake. Wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. You can freeze the layers for up to three months, allowing you to have a special dessert ready anytime without the hassle of baking from scratch.

Customization Ideas

Feel free to get creative with this Salted Caramel Chocolate Cake! For an extra twist on flavor, consider adding espresso powder to the cake batter for a mocha effect or mixing in some chocolate chips. If you love nuts, crushed walnuts or pecans can add a delightful crunch atop the frosting.

For a bit of fun, you can also create individual cupcake versions of this cake. Just follow the same recipe and fill cupcake liners with the batter. Bake until a toothpick comes out clean, and then frost each cupcake with the salted caramel frosting for an adorable and easily shareable treat.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, the cake layers can be baked a day ahead and stored tightly wrapped. Frost on the day of serving.

→ Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?

Absolutely! Store-bought caramel sauce can save you time.