Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake
The Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake is a heavenly dessert that perfectly marries rich chocolate with sweet caramel. This cake is not just a treat for chocolate lovers; it’s ideal for birthdays, celebrations, or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth on any day. Its layers of moist chocolate cake paired with creamy dulce de leche frosting make it truly irresistible. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting, this recipe is straightforward and rewarding.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Decadent Flavor: The combination of chocolate and dulce de leche creates a rich flavor profile that delights the senses.
- Easy to Follow: The step-by-step instructions guide you through the process, ensuring success even for novice bakers.
- Versatile for Any Occasion: Perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or casual gatherings; this cake impresses every time.
- Impressive Presentation: With its layered structure and glossy chocolate ganache, it looks as good as it tastes.
- Make Ahead Option: This cake can be prepared in advance and stored, making it convenient for busy schedules.
Tools and Preparation
Baking the perfect Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake requires some essential tools to ensure your success. Having the right equipment simplifies the process and enhances the baking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
- 9-inch round cake pans
- Cooling rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls: These are essential for combining ingredients without making a mess.
- Whisk: A whisk helps incorporate air into your batter, leading to a light and fluffy texture.
- 9-inch round cake pans: Using these pans ensures even baking and proper rising of your layers.
Ingredients
The ultimate combo of chocolate and caramel come together in this delicious Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake.
For the Cake
- 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
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 3/4 cup buttermilk (room temperature)
- 3/4 cup hot water
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
For the Frosting
- 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)
For the Ganache
- 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). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans with butter or non-stick spray.
Step 2: Prepare the Batter
In a large mixing bowl:
1. Combine flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
2. Mix well until all dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
3. Add vegetable oil, buttermilk, hot water, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Beat with a whisk until smooth.
Step 3: Bake the Cakes
Pour the batter equally into prepared cake pans. Bake in preheated oven for about 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 4: Cool the Cakes
Once baked, remove from oven and let them cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then transfer to a cooling rack to cool completely before frosting.
Step 5: Make the Frosting
While cakes cool:
1. In a clean bowl, beat egg whites until soft peaks form.
2. Gradually add dark brown sugar while continuing to beat until stiff peaks form.
3. Slowly add cubed butter one piece at a time until fully incorporated.
4. Finally, mix in dulce de leche until smooth.
Step 6: Assemble the Cake
Once cooled:
1. Place one layer on a serving plate.
2. Spread an even layer of frosting on top.
3. Place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the entire cake.
Step 7: Prepare Ganache Topping
In a small saucepan over low heat:
1. Heat heavy cream until just boiling.
2. Pour over chopped dark chocolate in a bowl and let sit for a few minutes before stirring until smooth.
3. Drizzle ganache over frosted cake allowing it to drip down the sides.
Enjoy your delicious Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake!
How to Serve Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake
This rich and indulgent Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday or simply enjoying a weekend treat, serving it the right way can enhance its delicious flavors.
Pair with Fresh Berries
- Raspberries, strawberries, or blueberries add a burst of freshness that balances the sweetness of the cake.
Add Whipped Cream
- A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream provides a creamy texture that complements the dense cake beautifully.
Serve with Ice Cream
- Vanilla or caramel ice cream pairs wonderfully, adding a cold contrast to the warm chocolate layers.
Drizzle Extra Dulce de Leche
- For an extra touch of decadence, drizzle more dulce de leche over each slice before serving.
Garnish with Chocolate Shavings
- Chocolate shavings can add a decorative touch and intensify the chocolate flavor.
Create a Cake Plate Display
- Arrange slices on a beautiful cake stand for an appealing presentation at gatherings or parties.
How to Perfect Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake
To ensure your Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
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Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your eggs and butter are at room temperature to achieve a smoother batter and better rise.
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Sift Your Dry Ingredients: Sifting flour and cocoa powder helps to remove lumps and creates a lighter cake texture.
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Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined; overmixing can lead to a dense cake instead of a light one.
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Check Oven Temperature: Always preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking temperatures for even cooking.
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Allow to Cool Completely: Let the cake cool completely in the pans before removing them. This prevents breakage and ensures clean edges.
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Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add espresso powder or instant coffee for an enhanced chocolate flavor in your cake.
Best Side Dishes for Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake
Pairing side dishes can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great options that complement the rich flavors of Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds lightness and freshness that contrasts nicely with the richness of the cake.
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Chocolate Mousse: This smooth and airy dessert enhances the chocolate theme while providing a different texture.
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Coconut Macaroons: The chewy coconut flavor offers a delightful mix of textures alongside the moist cake.
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Caramel Popcorn: The crunchy sweetness gives a fun twist that pairs well with the decadent flavors of dulce de leche.
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Coffee or Espresso: A cup of strong coffee or espresso serves as an excellent palate cleanser between bites.
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Chocolate Covered Strawberries: These provide an elegant touch and are perfect for dipping into extra dulce de leche if desired.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking a Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake can be tricky. Here are some common mistakes to steer clear of:
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Incorrect Ingredient Measurements: Using too much or too little of any ingredient can ruin the texture. Always measure accurately with the right tools.
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Not Sifting Cocoa Powder: Skipping this step may lead to clumps in your batter. Sift cocoa powder before mixing to ensure a smooth consistency.
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Overmixing the Batter: Overmixing can make the cake tough. Mix just until ingredients are combined for a tender crumb.
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Ignoring Room Temperature Ingredients: Cold ingredients can affect how well they combine. Make sure eggs, butter, and buttermilk are at room temperature before use.
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Skipping the Cooling Step: Cutting into a warm cake can lead to crumbling. Allow your cake to cool completely before serving for optimal results.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- The cake lasts up to 5 days in the fridge.
- Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Freezing Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil.
- Can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Reheating Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 15-30 seconds.
- Stovetop: Place a slice in a pan over low heat, cover, and warm gently.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake so special?
The combination of rich chocolate and creamy dulce de leche creates a decadent flavor that delights every palate.
Can I use homemade dulce de leche?
Absolutely! Homemade dulce de leche adds a personal touch and enhances the cake’s flavor profile even more.
How do I make my cake moist?
Be sure not to overbake your Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake, and incorporate buttermilk which helps maintain moisture.
Can I add different flavors?
Yes! You can customize by adding espresso powder or vanilla bean for extra depth in flavor alongside the chocolate and caramel notes.
Final Thoughts
This Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake is not just a dessert; it’s an experience that combines rich flavors beautifully. It’s perfect for celebrations or a cozy night in. Feel free to experiment with toppings or fillings, making it truly your own!
Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the luxurious delight of Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake, where rich chocolate harmonizes with velvety caramel for an unforgettable dessert experience. This cake features moist layers of chocolate cake enveloped in creamy dulce de leche frosting, topped off with a glossy chocolate ganache. Perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or simply satisfying your sweet cravings on any day, this recipe is easy to follow and rewarding for bakers of all skill levels. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or treating yourself, this elegant dessert will impress every time.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup Dutch-processed cocoa powder
- 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 the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Mix well.
- Add vegetable oil, buttermilk, hot water, eggs, and vanilla extract. Beat with a whisk until smooth.
- Pour the batter equally into prepared cake pans. Bake for about 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Once baked, let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.
- For the frosting, beat egg whites until soft peaks form. Gradually add brown sugar while continuing to beat until stiff peaks form. Incorporate the cubed butter and dulce de leche until smooth.
- Once the cakes are cooled, place one layer on a serving plate and spread an even layer of frosting on top. Place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the entire cake.
- For ganache, heat heavy cream until just boiling, pour over chopped dark chocolate, and stir until smooth. Drizzle it over the frosted cake allowing it to drip down the sides.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (85g)
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
