Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake
The Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake is a delightful treat that masterfully combines rich chocolate with creamy caramel. Perfect for celebrations, this cake impresses with its moist texture and deep flavors. Whether it’s a birthday party, holiday gathering, or just a special dessert for a weekend, this cake will surely win hearts and satisfy sweet cravings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor: The blend of chocolate and dulce de leche creates an unforgettable taste experience.
- Decadent Texture: This cake is exceptionally moist, making each slice melt in your mouth.
- Versatile Occasion: Ideal for birthdays, holidays, or any occasion where dessert is needed.
- Easy to Make: With clear instructions, even novice bakers can achieve great results.
- Customizable Options: Feel free to add nuts or fruit toppings for a personal twist.
Tools and Preparation
To make the Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Electric mixer
- Rubber spatula
- Cake pans (9-inch)
- Cooling rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Electric mixer: Ensures a smooth batter by thoroughly combining ingredients quickly.
- Rubber spatula: Ideal for scraping down the sides of mixing bowls and folding in delicate mixtures without deflating them.
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
- 3 large egg whites
Additional Components
- 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). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl:
1. Combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
2. Whisk the dry ingredients together until evenly mixed.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl:
1. Mix the vegetable oil, buttermilk, hot water, eggs, and vanilla extract until well-blended.
2. Slowly add the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
Step 4: Bake the Cakes
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
1. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
2. Remove from the oven and let them cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.
Step 5: Prepare Frosting
While the cakes are cooling:
1. In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine heavy cream and chopped dark chocolate. Stir until melted and smooth.
2. Remove from heat and allow it to cool slightly before adding the cubed butter and dulce de leche. Mix until creamy.
Step 6: Assemble the Cake
Once cooled:
1. Place one cake layer on a serving plate.
2. Spread frosting on top before placing the second layer on top.
3. Frost the top and sides of the entire cake with remaining frosting.
Enjoy your delicious Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake, perfect for any occasion!
How to Serve Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake
Serving your Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake is all about enhancing its rich flavors and textures. Here are some delightful ways to present this delectable dessert.
Classic Presentation
- Serve a generous slice of the cake on a dessert plate with a drizzle of extra Dulce de Leche for added sweetness.
With Fresh Berries
- Pair the cake with a side of fresh strawberries or raspberries. The tartness of the berries complements the sweetness beautifully.
Ice Cream Delight
- Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top of each slice. The creamy texture balances the chocolate richness.
Whipped Cream Topping
- Top the cake with a dollop of whipped cream. This light addition creates a nice contrast in flavors and textures.
Drizzled Chocolate Sauce
- Enhance the presentation by drizzling melted chocolate over the top. It not only looks stunning but also intensifies the chocolate flavor.
How to Perfect Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake
To ensure your Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake turns out perfect every time, follow these simple tips.
- Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing eggs, buttermilk, and butter to room temperature helps them mix better, resulting in a smoother batter.
- Sift dry ingredients: Sifting flour, cocoa powder, and baking soda helps eliminate lumps and ensures an even distribution throughout the batter.
- Measure accurately: Use kitchen scales or measuring cups carefully for precise ingredient amounts. This helps maintain texture and flavor.
- Don’t overmix batter: Mix until just combined to prevent dense cake. Overmixing can lead to tough texture.
- Check doneness early: Start checking your cake for doneness a few minutes before recommended time using a toothpick; it should come out clean from the center.
- Cool completely before frosting: Allow the cake layers to cool entirely before applying frosting for easier handling and better presentation.
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 excellent options to consider:
- Espresso Coffee: A strong cup of espresso enhances the flavors of chocolate and caramel beautifully.
- Chocolate Milkshake: A thick chocolate milkshake makes for a decadent pairing that chocolate lovers will adore.
- Caramel Sauce: Serve additional warm caramel sauce on the side for those who love extra sweetness.
- Coconut Macaroons: These chewy treats provide a nice textural contrast with their slight chewiness against the soft cake.
- Pecan Pie Bars: The nutty flavor from pecans complements the rich caramel notes in the cake.
- Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad adds freshness and balances out the rich flavors of the cake nicely.
- Cheese Platter: Consider adding a selection of cheeses like brie or aged cheddar for an interesting savory contrast.
- Dark Chocolate Truffles: Enhance chocolate notes by serving alongside rich dark chocolate truffles for indulgence.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking a Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake can be delightful, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Incorrect measurements: Using the wrong amount of ingredients can ruin your cake. Always measure accurately with dry and liquid measuring cups.
- Not sifting cocoa powder: Skipping this step can lead to lumps in your batter. Sift the cocoa powder before adding it to ensure a smooth texture.
- Using cold ingredients: Cold eggs or buttermilk can affect how well your cake rises. Allow them to reach room temperature before mixing.
- Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can result in a dense cake. Combine ingredients just until blended for a light texture.
- Skipping the cooling time: Cutting into a warm cake can cause it to fall apart. Allow your cake to cool completely before frosting.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store any leftover Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake in an airtight container.
- It will keep fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake
- Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then foil.
- The cake can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing flavor.
Reheating Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat a slice on medium power for 20-30 seconds, checking regularly.
- Stovetop: Place a slice in a skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about making the Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.
Can I use different types of chocolate?
Yes, you can experiment with milk or white chocolate instead of dark chocolate. Each will give your cake a unique flavor profile.
How do I make homemade Dulce de Leche?
To make homemade dulce de leche, simmer sweetened condensed milk on low heat for about 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally until thickened.
What should I serve with Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake?
This cake pairs well with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream, adding a creamy contrast to its richness.
Can I customize the recipe?
Absolutely! You can add nuts, fruit fillings, or different frostings for added flavors and textures.
Final Thoughts
The Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake is an irresistible treat that combines rich chocolate and sweet caramel flavors. It’s perfect for celebrations or simply indulging yourself. Feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite toppings or fillings to make it uniquely yours!
Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 slices 1x
Description
Indulge your taste buds with this Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake, a heavenly combination of rich chocolate and creamy caramel that promises to be the star of any celebration. This luxurious cake features moist layers, enveloped in a decadent dulce de leche frosting that brings an irresistible sweetness to each bite. Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or just a special treat, this cake is easy to make and can be customized with your favorite toppings. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a novice in the kitchen, you will love creating this delightful dessert that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup Dutch-processed cocoa powder (sifted)
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 3/4 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup dark brown sugar
- 1/4 cup dulce de leche
- 2 oz dark chocolate
- 2 oz heavy whipping cream
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, combine vegetable oil, buttermilk, hot water, eggs, and vanilla extract; mix well.
- Gradually add wet ingredients to dry ingredients until just combined.
- Divide batter between the prepared pans and bake for 30-35 minutes; check with a toothpick.
- Allow cakes to cool before frosting with a mixture of chocolate ganache and dulce de leche.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (85g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 34g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 46g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
