Salted Caramel Chocolate Cake

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Experience the divine combination of rich chocolate and luscious salted caramel with this decadent Salted Caramel Chocolate Cake. Perfect for celebrations or simply a sweet indulgence, this cake features layers of moist chocolate sponge, a creamy salted caramel filling, and a smooth chocolate ganache topping—guaranteeing a heavenly treat for any chocolate lover.

Sabrina Holt

Created by

Sabrina Holt

Last updated on 2025-11-27T09:39:15.689Z

This cake has become a favorite for many occasions, combining the nostalgia of chocolate cakes with a modern twist of salted caramel.

Why You'll Love It

  • Deliciously moist chocolate layers
  • Irresistible salted caramel filling
  • Smooth chocolate ganache that’s out of this world

The Perfect Cake for Every Occasion

This Salted Caramel Chocolate Cake is not just an ordinary dessert; it's an exceptional treat that elevates any celebration. Whether you’re hosting a birthday party, an anniversary, or simply wish to enjoy a sweet moment with loved ones, this cake fits the bill perfectly. The delightful combination of rich chocolate and salted caramel creates an experience that food lovers will remember. Each bite is a fusion of flavors, making it a standout option for any event.

What sets this cake apart is its versatility. It’s equally suitable for formal gatherings and casual get-togethers. The luscious layers of moist chocolate sponge complemented by the creamy salted caramel filling provide an inviting look and a mouth-watering taste. Pair it with a glass of milk or a cup of coffee, and you have a delightful pairing that can satisfy any craving.

Mastering the Art of Cake Baking

Baking the perfect cake can feel intimidating, but with this recipe, you'll be well on your way to creating a masterpiece. Start by ensuring your ingredients are at room temperature for optimal mixing. This helps create a smoother batter and contributes to a tender cake. Remember, measuring your ingredients accurately is crucial. A small miscalculation can affect the cake’s texture and flavor, so take your time to get it right.

Another important tip is to check your oven temperature. Use an oven thermometer to ensure it’s accurate, as oven discrepancies can lead to cakes baking unevenly. For best results, avoid opening the oven door frequently while baking. This can cause temperature fluctuations and affect the rise of your cake. Patience is key; let your cake cool completely before frosting for the most professional finish!

Elevating Your Cake with Decorative Touches

Once your Salted Caramel Chocolate Cake is baked and assembled, it’s time to consider presentation. You can elevate its appearance by adding creatively swirled caramel on top of the ganache. Use a piping bag to create elegant designs that are visually striking. You can add a sprinkle of sea salt or even chocolate shavings for an extra touch of elegance and texture.

For a richer flavor, consider garnishing your cake with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream when serving. Fresh berries or edible flowers can also be a beautiful addition, enhancing both the taste and the look of your indulgence. With a few simple touches, you can create a stunning dessert that will impress your guests and leave them craving for more.

Ingredients

For the Cake

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

For the Salted Caramel Filling

  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 6 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tsp sea salt

For the Ganache

  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 8 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips

Make sure to measure ingredients carefully for the best results.

Steps

Make 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 the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla; mix until smooth. Stir in the boiling water. Pour evenly into prepared pans.

Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool in pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Prepare the Salted Caramel

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the sugar, stirring constantly until it transforms into a smooth, amber-colored caramel. Remove from heat and add the butter and heavy cream slowly; stir until combined. Add sea salt to taste. Let it cool before using.

Make the Ganache

Heat the heavy cream in a saucepan until just simmering, then pour over the chocolate chips in a bowl. Let sit for a few minutes before stirring until smooth.

Assemble the Cake

Place one layer of the chocolate cake on a serving plate. Spread a layer of salted caramel over the top. Place the second layer on top and pour the ganache over the entire cake. Allow it to set before serving.

Serve the cake chilled or at room temperature, and enjoy the layers of delectable flavors!

Storage Tips for Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftover Salted Caramel Chocolate Cake, storing it properly is essential to maintain its deliciousness. To keep your cake fresh, cover it with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. This will prevent it from drying out and preserve its moist texture. The cake can stay at room temperature for a couple of days, but if you want to keep it longer, refrigerate it.

When storing in the fridge, be aware that chocolate can sometimes absorb other flavors. Ensure it’s well-covered. For long-term storage, you can freeze slices of the cake, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil, for up to three months. Just let it thaw in the fridge overnight before serving, and it will taste as fresh as the day you baked it.

Serving Suggestions

To make your serving experience even more delightful, consider pairing your Salted Caramel Chocolate Cake with a fresh beverage. A rich cup of coffee or a steaming mug of hot chocolate enhances the flavors of the cake and creates a comforting atmosphere, perfect for gatherings. Alternatively, for a refreshing touch, serve with cold milk or sweetened almond milk for a non-dairy option.

Don’t shy away from adding a dollop of whipped cream alongside your slices. A sprinkle of crushed nuts or toffee bits can also introduce a delightful crunch that beautifully complements the soft layers of the cake. These serving suggestions will elevate your cake experience, making each bite a memorable one!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the cake layers and caramel filling ahead of time. Just assemble before serving.

→ What can I substitute for salted caramel?

You can use chocolate ganache or a different flavored filling if desired.

Salted Caramel Chocolate Cake

Experience the divine combination of rich chocolate and luscious salted caramel with this decadent Salted Caramel Chocolate Cake. Perfect for celebrations or simply a sweet indulgence, this cake features layers of moist chocolate sponge, a creamy salted caramel filling, and a smooth chocolate ganache topping—guaranteeing a heavenly treat for any chocolate lover.

Prep Time20 minutes
Cooking Duration30 minutes
Overall Time1 hour

Created by: Sabrina Holt

Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts

Skill Level: Intermediate

Final Quantity: 8 servings

What You'll Need

For the Cake

  1. 2 cups all-purpose flour
  2. 2 cups sugar
  3. 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  4. 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
  5. 1 1/2 tsp baking soda
  6. 1 tsp salt
  7. 2 large eggs
  8. 1 cup whole milk
  9. 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  10. 2 tsp vanilla extract
  11. 1 cup boiling water

For the Salted Caramel Filling

  1. 1 cup granulated sugar
  2. 6 tbsp unsalted butter
  3. 1/2 cup heavy cream
  4. 1 tsp sea salt

For the Ganache

  1. 1 cup heavy cream
  2. 8 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips

How-To Steps

Step 01

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla; mix until smooth. Stir in the boiling water. Pour evenly into prepared pans.

Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool in pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 02

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the sugar, stirring constantly until it transforms into a smooth, amber-colored caramel. Remove from heat and add the butter and heavy cream slowly; stir until combined. Add sea salt to taste. Let it cool before using.

Step 03

Heat the heavy cream in a saucepan until just simmering, then pour over the chocolate chips in a bowl. Let sit for a few minutes before stirring until smooth.

Step 04

Place one layer of the chocolate cake on a serving plate. Spread a layer of salted caramel over the top. Place the second layer on top and pour the ganache over the entire cake. Allow it to set before serving.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 450
  • Total Fat: 25g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg
  • Sodium: 200mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 50g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 35g
  • Protein: 6g