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Caramel Cloud Cake Recipe

If you are on the lookout for a dessert that feels like a dreamy hug on a plate, this Caramel Cloud Cake Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine bite-after-bite of a light, fluffy sponge that melts effortlessly in your mouth, paired with a luscious whipped cream frosting and drizzled generously with silky caramel sauce. It’s a balance of airy texture and rich, buttery sweetness that turns any ordinary day into a special occasion. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or indulging in a little self-love, this cake will quickly become a beloved classic in your recipe collection.

Caramel Cloud Cake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple but essential ingredients that come together to create a perfect harmony of texture and flavor. Each component has a purpose, from the lightness brought by the eggs to the creamy decadence of the caramel sauce.

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour: Provides the structure for the cake crumb without being too dense.
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch: Adds softness and a tender crumb to keep the cake light.
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cake rise beautifully and become fluffy.
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors in the cake and balances the sweetness.
  • 4 large eggs (room temperature): The key to that cloud-like airy texture when whipped properly.
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake just right and helps with moisture.
  • 1/4 cup whole milk: Adds the necessary moisture and richness for a tender bite.
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled: Brings buttery flavor and moistness to the cake layers.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses the cake with a warm, comforting aroma and flavor.
  • 1 cup granulated sugar (for caramel sauce): The base of your homemade caramel—making it fresh and oh-so-decadent.
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (caramel sauce): Gives the caramel its rich, velvety mouthfeel.
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream (caramel sauce): Balances the caramel’s sweetness with creaminess.
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt (caramel sauce): Elevates the caramel’s flavor by cutting through sweetness.
  • 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream (for frosting): Whipped into clouds of frosting to complement the cake’s lightness.
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the whipped cream just enough to enhance the overall treat.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (frosting): Adds subtle sweetness and depth to the whipped cream.

How to Make Caramel Cloud Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing two 8-inch round cake pans. Line the bottoms with parchment paper to ensure your delicate layers come out perfectly. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt—this dry mix is what gives the cake its tender structure. In a separate large bowl, beat your room temperature eggs and granulated sugar on high speed for 5 to 7 minutes until the mixture triples in volume and forms ribbons when lifted—this step is crucial for that signature cloud-like fluffiness.

Step 2: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gently fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture in batches, being careful not to deflate all the air you just whipped in. In another bowl, combine the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract, then fold this into the batter until smooth and fully incorporated. This combination keeps the batter moist and flavorful without weighing it down.

Step 3: Bake the Cake Layers

Divide the batter evenly between your prepared pans and slide them into the oven. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the tops spring back when lightly pressed and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool completely on a wire rack before moving on to the next exciting step.

Step 4: Make the Caramel Sauce

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the sugar slowly while stirring constantly until it morphs into a beautiful amber liquid. Don’t rush this part; caramelizing sugar takes patience but the result is worth every second. Carefully add the butter cubes and stir until melted, then slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring—this creates that irresistibly smooth sauce. Finish with a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness. Allow the caramel to cool to room temperature before using, so it thickens slightly.

Step 5: Whip the Cream Frosting

Using a mixer, whip heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract on high speed until stiff peaks form. This whipped cream frosting is the light yet creamy finish that wraps around the cake, creating a heavenly texture contrast with the caramel.

Step 6: Assemble Your Caramel Cloud Cake Recipe

Place one cake layer on your serving plate and spread a generous layer of whipped cream over the top. Drizzle caramel sauce across the cream for an indulgent touch. Gently place the second cake layer on top, then coat the entire cake—top and sides—with the remaining whipped cream. Finish by drizzling more caramel over the cake’s surface, letting it cascade down the edges like creamy ribbons. Chill the masterpiece in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to set and allow flavors to marry.

How to Serve Caramel Cloud Cake Recipe

Caramel Cloud Cake Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

For an elegant presentation, sprinkle the top of the cake with flaky sea salt or crushed toasted nuts like pecans or almonds. These add a lovely textural crunch and highlight the caramel’s rich flavor. Fresh berries or edible flowers can also provide a pop of color and brightness against the soft cream.

Side Dishes

This Caramel Cloud Cake Recipe shines spectacularly on its own, but pairing it with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of fresh fruit compote enhances the experience. A cup of strong coffee or chai tea also complements the dessert beautifully, balancing sweetness with warm spices or bitterness.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice the cake into elegant wedges and plate with a drizzle of reserved caramel sauce and a small spoonful of whipped cream. For a party, serve mini individual versions of this cake in clear glasses layered with cake pieces, caramel, and whipped cream for a stunning trifle effect. You can also sprinkle edible gold dust over the caramel for a touch of glam.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers (which is unlikely!), store the Caramel Cloud Cake Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and moist for up to 3 days, keeping that whipped cream and caramel perfectly intact.

Freezing

You can freeze the cake layers separately before assembling by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, freezing for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before frosting and caramel assembly to preserve the best texture and flavor. The whipped cream frosting doesn’t freeze well and is best made fresh.

Reheating

This cake is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature to appreciate the light texture and creamy frosting. Avoid reheating as the whipped cream and caramel can lose their ideal consistency.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of sugar for the caramel?

Granulated sugar works best for a smooth, classic caramel. While brown sugar offers a deeper flavor, it can change the texture and may cause your caramel to be grainy. Stick to granulated sugar for the best results with this Caramel Cloud Cake Recipe.

Is it okay to use cold eggs in the batter?

Room temperature eggs whip up more easily and achieve greater volume, which is important for the cake’s light, airy structure. For this recipe, take your eggs out of the fridge about 30 minutes before baking.

Can I make the caramel sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the caramel sauce up to a week in advance and store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. Warm it slightly before drizzling to restore its pourable texture.

What if I don’t have cornstarch?

Cornstarch is key to creating the soft, tender crumb that makes this cake feel like a cloud. You could substitute with an equal amount of cake flour or cornstarch mixed with flour to maintain the airy texture.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

With some adjustments, yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that is meant for baking. Keep in mind that the texture might be slightly different, so experiment on a small batch first.

Final Thoughts

This Caramel Cloud Cake Recipe is a joy to make and a delight to eat. Its fluffy layers, velvety whipped cream, and rich caramel sauce come together to create a dessert that feels like a little celebration in every bite. I truly hope you give this recipe a try and watch it become a treasured favorite for your family and friends, turning any moment into a sweet memory.

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Caramel Cloud Cake Recipe


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4.2 from 72 reviews

  • Author: admin
  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Yield: 10 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Caramel Cloud Cake is a light and airy layered sponge cake filled with fluffy whipped cream and drizzled generously with rich, buttery caramel sauce. This elegant dessert combines the softness of a delicate cake with the indulgent sweetness of homemade caramel and smooth cream frosting, perfect for celebrations or a special treat.


Ingredients

Scale

For the Cake:

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 4 large eggs (room temperature)
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup whole milk
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Caramel Sauce:

  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into cubes
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Whipped Cream Frosting:

  • 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Prepare Cake Batter: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line the bottom of two 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening agents.
  2. Beat Eggs and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar at high speed with a hand or stand mixer for 5–7 minutes, until the mixture becomes light, thick, and nearly triples in volume, creating a fluffy base for the cake.
  3. Fold Dry Ingredients: Carefully fold the dry flour mixture into the egg mixture in batches, ensuring the batter stays airy and smooth, avoiding deflation.
  4. Add Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the whole milk, melted and cooled butter, and vanilla extract. Gently fold this mixture into the batter until fully incorporated and smooth.
  5. Bake the Cakes: Divide the batter evenly into the prepared pans. Bake for 20–25 minutes, until the tops spring back lightly to touch and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove from oven and cool completely on a wire rack.
  6. Make Caramel Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, heat the granulated sugar while stirring constantly until it melts and turns an amber liquid. Carefully add the cubed butter and stir until melted and combined. Slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring; continue until smooth. Stir in salt, then allow to cool to room temperature before using to prevent melting the frosting.
  7. Prepare Whipped Cream Frosting: Using a mixer, beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract on high speed until stiff peaks form, creating a stable and fluffy frosting.
  8. Assemble the Cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of whipped cream frosting over the top, then drizzle caramel sauce lightly over the cream. Carefully place the second cake layer on top. Cover the entire top and sides of the cake with the remaining whipped cream frosting.
  9. Decorate and Chill: Drizzle additional caramel sauce over the top layer, allowing it to drip naturally down the sides for an elegant finish. Chill the assembled cake in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to set before serving.

Notes

  • This cake’s light texture pairs beautifully with the rich caramel, making it ideal for festive occasions and holidays.
  • The caramel sauce can be prepared in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Reheat gently before using to soften it.
  • Use room temperature eggs for better volume when beating them with sugar.
  • Do not overmix the batter once the dry ingredients are added to keep it fluffy.
  • Ensure the caramel sauce cools sufficiently before adding to whipped cream to prevent the frosting from melting.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

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