If you crave a dessert that perfectly captures the warmth and coziness of fall, the Autumn Embrace Dulce de Leche Cake Recipe is your new best friend. This cake combines tender, fluffy layers gently infused with vanilla and enriched with the irresistible caramel flavor of dulce de leche. The luscious whipped cream topping adds just the right balance of lightness, making each bite a comforting hug on a plate. Whether you’re gathering with loved ones or simply treating yourself to a moment of sweet bliss, this cake is a celebration of autumn’s rich, inviting flavors that you will want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients come together in a simple yet harmonious way, each playing a crucial role in creating the soft texture, dreamy sweetness, and eye-catching look of this cake. From the basic pantry staples to the indulgent dulce de leche, every element is essential in crafting this memorable dessert.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the structure that holds this cake together with a tender crumb.
- 2 teaspoons baking powder: Helps the cake rise to fluffy perfection, keeping it light and airy.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors, balancing the sweetness beautifully.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature: Adds richness and moisture, creating that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake and aids in browning for a beautiful golden crust.
- 2 large eggs: Acts as a binder and adds a lovely richness to the batter.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses a warm, comforting aroma that complements the dulce de leche.
- 1 cup whole milk: Keeps the cake moist and tender with its creamy consistency.
- 1 cup dulce de leche (for filling): Delivers the signature caramel sweetness that makes this cake unforgettable.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Whipped into a fluffy topping that adds a light contrast to the rich layers.
- 2 tablespoons confectioners’ sugar: Sweetens the whipped cream delicately without overpowering.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for whipped cream): Elevates the whipped cream with subtle warmth.
- Additional dulce de leche (for drizzling): The finishing touch that adds glossy, caramel magic.
How to Make Autumn Embrace Dulce de Leche Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
Start by whisking together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl. Setting these dry ingredients aside will make combining the batter easier and ensure even rising during baking.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat the unsalted butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is pale and fluffy. This step is crucial because it incorporates air into the batter, giving the cake its soft and tender texture.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Next, add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then stir in the vanilla extract to infuse the batter with a warm fragrance that pairs perfectly with the dulce de leche.
Step 4: Alternate Adding Flour and Milk
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture in three parts, alternating with the whole milk in two parts. Start and end with the flour mixture, mixing just until combined each time to avoid overworking the batter.
Step 5: Bake the Cake Layers
Divide the batter evenly between two greased and floured 9-inch round cake pans. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool completely before assembling.
Step 6: Whip the Cream
While the cake cools, whip the heavy cream with confectioners’ sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. This whipped cream will add a light, airy texture to contrast with the richness of the dulce de leche filling.
Step 7: Assemble the Cake
Place the first cake layer on your serving plate and spread half of the dulce de leche evenly over it. Top with half of the whipped cream, then place the second cake layer on top. Repeat the dulce de leche and whipped cream layers, finishing off by drizzling extra dulce de leche over the top for a beautiful presentation.
How to Serve Autumn Embrace Dulce de Leche Cake Recipe
Garnishes
To make your cake even more inviting, consider garnishing with toasted pecans or sliced almonds for crunch, a sprinkle of cinnamon for warmth, or fresh figs to add a seasonal touch. These small details contribute visual appeal and enhance the cake’s autumn-inspired flavors.
Side Dishes
This cake shines wonderfully alongside a cup of spiced chai tea, rich espresso, or a scoop of cinnamon ice cream. The warmth and spice from the beverage or ice cream complement the caramel and vanilla tones, creating a balanced and cozy dessert experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving slices of this Autumn Embrace Dulce de Leche Cake Recipe atop rustic wooden platters or in clear glass cloches to showcase those luscious layers. You could also drizzle additional dulce de leche on each serving plate, making every bite feel like a special occasion.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. It will stay moist and flavorful for up to 3 days, allowing you to indulge in this delight even after the first day.
Freezing
If you want to make this cake ahead of time, you can freeze it after assembling. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It will keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Reheating
Since this is a delicate cake with whipped cream and dulce de leche, reheating isn’t recommended. Instead, bring chilled slices to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before enjoying, so the flavors and textures can shine.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought dulce de leche for this recipe?
Absolutely! Store-bought dulce de leche works perfectly and saves you time, but if you’re feeling adventurous, making it at home adds a lovely homemade touch.
Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Just make sure it includes xanthan gum or another binder to keep the texture right.
Can I use low-fat milk instead of whole milk?
Whole milk is recommended to keep the cake moist and tender, but if needed, you can use low-fat milk. Just be aware the texture might be slightly less rich.
How long does it take to make the Autumn Embrace Dulce de Leche Cake Recipe?
The entire process, from mixing to baking and assembling, usually takes about one hour, making it an approachable dessert for both busy weekdays and special weekends.
Can this cake be made into cupcakes?
Definitely! Divide the batter into muffin tins and bake for about 18-20 minutes. Use a piping bag to add dulce de leche and whipped cream as filling and frosting for charming individual portions.
Final Thoughts
This Autumn Embrace Dulce de Leche Cake Recipe is truly a celebration of everything that makes fall desserts so irresistible: the cozy flavors, the luscious textures, and the joyful moments shared over a slice. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a beloved part of your seasonal baking ritual. Trust me, once you taste the rich caramel sweetness paired with fluffy vanilla cake and dreamy whipped cream, you’ll understand why this cake is an autumn must-have.
Print
Autumn Embrace Dulce de Leche Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Autumn Embrace Dulce de Leche Cake is a decadent, moist cake featuring layers of tender vanilla sponge filled with luscious dulce de leche and topped with a fluffy whipped cream. Perfect for cozy gatherings, the sweet caramelized flavor of dulce de leche paired with creamy textures makes it an irresistible autumn dessert.
Ingredients
Cake
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup whole milk
Filling
- 1 cup dulce de leche
Whipped Cream Topping
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons confectioners’ sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Additional
- Additional dulce de leche for drizzling
Instructions
- Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to ensure even distribution and remove any lumps.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the room temperature unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, which will help create a tender cake texture.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract for flavor.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Alternately add the flour mixture and whole milk to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the flour mixture. Mix each addition just until combined to keep the batter light.
- Bake the Cake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the batter into a greased and floured cake pan. Bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before removing.
- Prepare Whipped Cream: In a chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream with the confectioners’ sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. This will be used to top the cake and add richness.
- Assemble the Cake: Once the cake is cooled, slice it horizontally into two layers. Spread a generous layer of dulce de leche between the layers as filling.
- Top with Whipped Cream: Spread the prepared whipped cream evenly over the top layer of the cake.
- Drizzle Dulce de Leche: Drizzle additional dulce de leche over the whipped cream topping for an attractive finish and extra caramel flavor.
- Serve: Slice the cake into 12 portions and serve. Store any leftovers refrigerated, covered tightly, for up to 3 days for best freshness.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use homemade dulce de leche or caramel sauce.
- Make sure the cake is completely cooled before assembling to prevent the whipped cream from melting.
- You can toast some nuts like pecans to sprinkle on top for added texture and flavor.
- This cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or spiced tea.
