Chocolate Fudge Cake with Salted Caramel Buttercream

Description:
This indulgent Chocolate Fudge Cake is rich, moist, and filled with layers of decadent chocolate flavor. Topped with a creamy, smooth salted caramel buttercream, this cake is the perfect balance of sweet and salty. Whether for a special celebration or a cozy treat, this cake will surely satisfy your chocolate cravings.

Ingredients (Makes a 2-layer 9-inch cake)

For the Chocolate Fudge Cake:

• All-purpose flour: 1 ¾ cups (220 g)
• Granulated sugar: 1 ½ cups (300 g)
• Cocoa powder (unsweetened): ¾ cup (75 g)
• Baking powder: 1 ½ tsp
• Baking soda: 1 ½ tsp
• Salt: ½ tsp
• Eggs: 2 large
• Buttermilk: 1 cup (240 ml)
• Vegetable oil: ½ cup (120 ml)
• Boiling water: 1 cup (240 ml)
• Vanilla extract: 2 tsp

For the Salted Caramel Buttercream:

• Unsalted butter (softened): 1 cup (2 sticks or 230 g)
• Powdered sugar: 3 cups (360 g)
• Salted caramel sauce: ½ cup (120 ml) (store-bought or homemade)
• Vanilla extract: 1 tsp
• Heavy cream: 2-3 tbsp (for desired consistency)
• Sea salt: ½ tsp (for garnish)

For Garnish (Optional):

• Chopped chocolate or chocolate shavings
• Extra salted caramel sauce (for drizzling)

Instructions:

Step 1: Bake the Chocolate Fudge Cake

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, or line them with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Add the eggs, buttermilk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Mix on medium speed until the batter is smooth and well combined.
4. Gradually pour in the boiling water, mixing until smooth (the batter will be thin).
5. Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared pans.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 2: Prepare the Salted Caramel Buttercream

1. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with an electric mixer until light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes).
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, beating well after each addition until smooth.
3. Add the salted caramel sauce, vanilla extract, and a pinch of sea salt. Beat until fully incorporated.
4. Add heavy cream 1 tablespoon at a time, adjusting to your desired frosting consistency. Beat for an additional 2-3 minutes until light and creamy.

Step 3: Assemble the Cake

1. Place the first cake layer on a serving platter or cake stand. Spread a generous layer of salted caramel buttercream on top.
2. Add the second cake layer and press down gently to secure.
3. Frost the top and sides of the entire cake with the salted caramel buttercream. Be sure to smooth out the frosting for an even finish.
4. Optional: Garnish with chopped chocolate or chocolate shavings, and drizzle additional salted caramel sauce over the top. Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt for that extra burst of flavor.

Tips for Success:

• Ensure the cake cools completely before frosting to avoid the buttercream melting.
• Boiling water: The addition of boiling water in the cake batter makes it extra moist and fudgy.
• Frosting consistency: Adjust the heavy cream to get the frosting to the perfect spreadable consistency.
• Caramel flavor: Use high-quality salted caramel sauce for the best flavor. You can make your own or use store-bought for convenience.

Recommendations:

• Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of extra caramel sauce on the side for an indulgent treat.
• Storage: Keep the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. Allow it to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.
• Freezing: Freeze the unfrosted cake layers for up to 3 months. Allow them to thaw completely before frosting.

Nutrition (Per Slice, based on 12 servings):

• Calories: ~450
• Protein: 4 g
• Fat: 24 g
• Carbohydrates: 58 g
• Sugar: 44 g
• Fiber: 2 g

This Chocolate Fudge Cake with Salted Caramel Buttercream is a decadent treat that will wow your guests with its rich, indulgent flavor and stunning presentation. Perfect for any special occasion!