The Golden Caramel Cloud Cake is a dreamy delight that combines the rich flavors of buttery vanilla cake with a luscious caramel glaze. This cake is perfect for indulging on a cozy evening or impressing guests at a gathering. Its unique blend of textures and flavors is sure to make it a standout on any dessert table.
The magic begins with butter, providing richness and a tender texture. Granulated sugar sweetens the cake while ensuring a soft, moist crumb. All-purpose flour forms the structure, and baking powder gives it a light, airy lift. A touch of salt balances the sweetness. Whole milk adds moisture and richness. Eggs bind everything together, and vanilla extract infuses the cake with a warm, aromatic note. For the caramel glaze, brown sugar and heavy cream create a silky, sweet topping, while unsalted butter adds creaminess. Finally, sea salt enhances the caramel's flavor, adding a gourmet touch.
This cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. For a touch of acidity, consider serving with a few fresh berries on the side. If you're feeling indulgent, a drizzle of chocolate sauce can elevate the dessert to a whole new level.
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and greasing a 9x13 inch cake pan. This ensures your cake doesn't stick and comes out easily once baked. In a large bowl, cream together 1 cup of butter and the granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy—this should take about 3-5 minutes with an electric mixer. This step is crucial for a tender cake texture.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the butter and sugar mixture, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the flour mixture to ensure everything is well incorporated. This method helps achieve a smooth batter without overmixing.
Next, beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully combined before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract for that classic cake flavor. Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. While the cake bakes, prepare the caramel glaze by combining brown sugar, heavy cream, and 1/4 cup of butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly until the mixture is smooth and slightly thickened, about 5-7 minutes.
Once the cake is out of the oven, use a skewer to poke holes all over the surface. Pour the warm caramel glaze over the cake, allowing it to seep into the holes. This step is where the magic happens: the glaze infuses the cake with its rich, buttery flavor. Finish by sprinkling sea salt over the top for a gourmet touch. Allow the cake to cool completely before serving to let the flavors meld beautifully.
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