Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake
The Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake is a delightful dessert that combines rich chocolate with the creamy sweetness of caramel. Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any celebration, this cake stands out with its moist texture and decadent flavors. The layers of chocolate and dulce de leche create a show-stopping treat that will impress your family and friends.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Decadent Flavor: The combination of chocolate and dulce de leche makes every bite irresistible.
- Easy to Follow: With straightforward steps, you can create a masterpiece even if you’re a beginner.
- Versatile for Occasions: This cake is perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or casual get-togethers.
- Impressive Presentation: Layered with rich frosting, it looks beautiful on any dessert table.
- Make Ahead Option: You can prepare the cake in advance, saving time on the day of your event.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to make the process smooth and efficient.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Electric mixer
- Baking pans
- Sifter
- Rubber spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Electric mixer: Saves time and ensures that your ingredients are well-combined for a fluffy batter.
- Sifter: Helps to aerate dry ingredients like flour and cocoa powder for a lighter cake texture.
Ingredients
The ultimate combo of chocolate and caramel come together in this delicious Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake.
Dry Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup Dutch-processed cocoa powder (sifted)
- 1 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 3/4 cup buttermilk (room temperature)
- 3/4 cup hot water
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
Additional Ingredients
- 3 large egg whites
- 1 cup dark brown sugar (lightly packed)
- 1 1/2 cups unsalted butter (cubed, room temperature)
- 1/4 cup Dulce de Leche (storebought or homemade)
- 2 oz dark chocolate (finely chopped)
- 2 oz heavy whipping cream
How to Make Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare two 9-inch round baking pans by greasing them and lining the bottoms with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the following dry ingredients:
1. All-purpose flour
2. Granulated sugar
3. Dutch-processed cocoa powder (sifted)
4. Baking soda
5. Baking powder
6. Salt
Whisk together until well combined.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together:
1. Vegetable oil
2. Buttermilk
3. Hot water
4. Eggs
5. Vanilla extract
Mix until smooth.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the wet mixture into the dry mixture while stirring continuously. Mix until just combined; avoid overmixing to keep the cake tender.
Step 5: Bake the Cakes
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake in preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Cool and Frost
Once baked, allow cakes to cool in pans for about 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks. Let them cool completely before frosting with dulce de leche frosting made from butter, dark brown sugar, and whipped cream mixed with melted dark chocolate.
Enjoy your heavenly Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake!
How to Serve Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake
Serving Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake can be a delightful experience, enhancing its rich flavors and textures. Here are some creative ideas to present this indulgent dessert.
Classic Slice
- Serve a generous slice with a dollop of freshly whipped cream for a simple yet elegant touch.
Plate it with Fruit
- Pair the cake with fresh berries like strawberries or raspberries to add a refreshing contrast to the sweetness.
Ice Cream Delight
- Top each piece with a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream for an extra creamy layer that complements the cake’s richness.
Drizzle of Caramel
- Add an additional drizzle of warm dulce de leche over the slice for a decadent finish that will impress guests.
Coffee Companion
- Serve alongside a cup of strong coffee or espresso to balance out the sweetness and enhance the chocolate flavor.
Decorate with Nuts
- Sprinkle chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, on top for added crunch and flavor contrast.
How to Perfect Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake
To ensure your Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:
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Measure Ingredients Accurately: Use precise measurements for flour and sugar to achieve the best texture and flavor.
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure eggs and butter are at room temperature for better mixing and incorporation into the batter.
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Sift Dry Ingredients: Sifting cocoa powder and flour helps prevent lumps, resulting in a smoother batter.
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Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to verify accurate baking conditions, ensuring even cooking.
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Cool Completely Before Frosting: Allow the cake layers to cool fully before frosting to prevent melting and sliding of icing.
Best Side Dishes for Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake
Pairing side dishes with your Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some tasty suggestions:
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Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or blueberries provide a tart contrast that balances the sweetness of the cake.
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Whipped Cream: Lightly sweetened whipped cream enhances the cake’s flavors without overpowering it.
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Chocolate Mousse: A rich chocolate mousse adds another layer of chocolatey goodness that complements the cake well.
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Caramel Sauce: A small bowl of caramel sauce for drizzling allows guests to customize their servings.
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Mixed Nuts: A bowl of mixed nuts offers a crunchy texture that pairs nicely with the soft cake.
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Espresso Shots: Serve small cups of espresso to bring out the chocolate notes in the cake while providing a caffeine boost.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking a Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Incorrect oven temperature: Always preheat your oven. Baking at an incorrect temperature can lead to an unevenly baked cake.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately: Use proper measuring cups and spoons. Incorrect measurements can affect the cake’s texture and flavor.
- Skipping the rest period: Allowing the cake to cool properly is crucial. Cutting too soon can result in a messy presentation.
- Using cold ingredients: Ensure that eggs and buttermilk are at room temperature. Cold ingredients can impact how well the batter rises.
- Overmixing the batter: Mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a tough cake instead of a light, fluffy one.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store the Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake in an airtight container.
- It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freezing Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake
- Wrap individual slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm the cake for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 15-20 seconds until warm.
- Stovetop: Place a slice in a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm for about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making and storing Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake.
How do I make Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake from scratch?
You need basic baking ingredients like flour, sugar, cocoa powder, and eggs. Follow the recipe closely for best results.
Can I substitute ingredients in Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake?
Yes! You can use almond milk instead of buttermilk or substitute coconut oil for vegetable oil. Be mindful of how these changes may affect texture.
How long does Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake last?
When stored properly in the refrigerator, it lasts about 5 days. In the freezer, it can last up to 3 months.
What is the best way to serve Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake?
Serve it chilled or at room temperature with whipped cream or fresh berries on top for added flavor.
Final Thoughts
Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake offers a perfect blend of chocolate richness and caramel sweetness that delights everyone who tries it. This cake is highly versatile; you can customize it with different frostings or toppings to suit your taste preferences. Don’t hesitate—give this recipe a try!
Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 8 people 1x
Description
Indulge in the ultimate dessert delight with our Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake! This luscious cake features rich chocolate layers perfectly complemented by a creamy dulce de leche frosting. Ideal for any celebration or as a sweet treat to satisfy your cravings, this cake is not only visually stunning but also easy to make, even for beginners. Each slice offers a moist and decadent experience, combining the irresistible flavors of chocolate and caramel in every bite. Whether served at birthdays, holidays, or casual gatherings, this Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake is sure to impress your family and friends!
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup Dutch-processed cocoa powder (sifted)
- 1 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 3/4 cup buttermilk (room temperature)
- 3/4 cup hot water
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 large egg whites
- 1 cup dark brown sugar (lightly packed)
- 1 1/2 cups unsalted butter (cubed, room temperature)
- 1/4 cup Dulce de Leche (storebought or homemade)
- 2 oz dark chocolate (finely chopped)
- 2 oz heavy whipping cream
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round baking pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt until combined.
- In another bowl, mix the vegetable oil, buttermilk, hot water, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Gradually combine the wet mixture into the dry ingredients until just mixed; avoid overmixing.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 30-35 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow cooling in pans for about 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
- Frost with dulce de leche frosting made from whipped cream mixed with melted dark chocolate.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 38g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
