2tablespoonsinstant coffee granulesdissolved in hot water
1cupbuttermilkcan substitute with milk and vinegar
For the Caramel Filling
1cupgranulated sugar
1/4cupwater
1cupheavy cream
4tablespoonsunsalted butter
1/2teaspoonsalt
For the Frosting
1cupunsalted buttercreamy base for frosting
4cupspowdered sugar
2tablespoonsinstant coffee granulesdissolved in cream
2teaspoonsvanilla extract
1/2teaspoonsaltrounds out the sweetness
Instructions
How to Make Decadent Caramel Coffee Buttercream Cake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar for 2-3 minutes.
Beat in the large eggs one at a time, then pour in the vanilla extract and dissolved coffee.
Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture, alternating with buttermilk until just combined.
Divide the batter between the prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes, until a toothpick comes out clean.
In a saucepan, combine granulated sugar and water and cook until it turns a deep amber color, then add heavy cream, unsalted butter, and salt.
In a mixing bowl, beat unsalted butter until creamy, then gradually add powdered sugar, dissolved coffee, vanilla extract, and salt until fluffy.
On a serving plate, layer the cooled cake, spreading caramel and frosting, then top with remaining cake and cover with frosting.
Drizzle remaining caramel over the top and garnish with coffee beans or chocolate shavings if desired.
Notes
Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days at room temperature, or refrigerate for up to a week. For longer storage, wrap and freeze individual layers for up to 3 months.