Dulce de Leche Cake: The Ultimate Recipe and Baking Guide

Dulce de Leche Cake: Just the name evokes images of creamy caramel, decadent sweetness, and pure indulgence, doesn’t it? Imagine sinking your fork into a slice of moist, tender cake layered with luscious dulce de leche, a flavor so captivating it’s practically addictive. This isn’t just dessert; it’s an experience!

Dulce de leche, meaning “sweet milk,” boasts a rich history deeply rooted in Latin American culture. Legend has it that this caramel-like confection was accidentally discovered in Argentina in the 19th century when a cook left milk and sugar simmering on the stove for too long. Whether fact or folklore, the result was a culinary masterpiece that quickly spread throughout the region and beyond. It’s a staple in many Latin American desserts, adding a touch of warmth and nostalgia to every bite.

What makes Dulce de Leche Cake so irresistible? It’s the perfect balance of textures and flavors. The light and airy cake provides a beautiful contrast to the rich, creamy dulce de leche. The caramel notes are comforting and familiar, yet sophisticated enough to impress even the most discerning palates. Plus, while it might seem intimidating, this cake is surprisingly easy to make at home, making it a fantastic option for both special occasions and everyday treats. Get ready to experience a taste of Latin American heaven with every slice!

Ingredients:

• For the Cake:
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup buttermilk
• For the Dulce de Leche Filling:
• 1 (13.4 ounce) can dulce de leche
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• For the Dulce de Leche Frosting:
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 3 cups powdered sugar, sifted
• 1 (13.4 ounce) can dulce de leche
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• Optional Garnish:
• Dulce de leche, for drizzling
• Sea salt flakes

Preparing the Cake Layers:

1. Preheat and Prep: First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans. I like to use baking spray with flour already in it – it makes life so much easier! You can also line the bottoms with parchment paper rounds for extra insurance against sticking.
2. Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisking ensures everything is evenly distributed, which is key for a light and fluffy cake. Set this aside for now.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl (or the bowl of your stand mixer), cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes. Don’t rush this step! The more air you incorporate, the better the texture of your cake.
4. Add Eggs: Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. After all the eggs are in, stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Alternate Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. So, add about a third of the dry ingredients, then half of the buttermilk, then another third of the dry ingredients, the remaining buttermilk, and finally the last of the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix! Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, which can result in a tough cake.
6. Divide and Bake: Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans. I like to use a kitchen scale to ensure each pan has the same amount of batter. This helps the cakes bake evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Cool the Cakes: Let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before inverting them onto a wire rack to cool completely. Make sure they are completely cool before frosting!

Making the Dulce de Leche Filling:

1. Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the dulce de leche, heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract.
2. Whip Until Smooth: Beat with an electric mixer until smooth and light. This filling is so simple, but it adds a wonderful layer of flavor and moisture to the cake.

Preparing the Dulce de Leche Frosting:

1. Cream Butter: In a large bowl (or the bowl of your stand mixer), beat the softened butter until smooth and creamy. This usually takes a few minutes.
2. Add Powdered Sugar: Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, beating on low speed until combined. Sifting the powdered sugar is important to prevent lumps in your frosting.
3. Incorporate Dulce de Leche: Add the dulce de leche, milk, vanilla extract, and salt. Beat until light and fluffy. You might need to scrape down the sides of the bowl a few times to ensure everything is evenly incorporated.
4. Adjust Consistency: If the frosting is too thick, add a little more milk, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, add a little more powdered sugar.

Assembling the Cake:

1. Level the Cakes (Optional): If your cake layers are uneven, use a serrated knife to level them. This will make your cake look more professional.
2. Place First Layer: Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand.
3. Add Filling: Spread half of the dulce de leche filling evenly over the first layer.
4. Add Second Layer: Place the second cake layer on top of the filling.
5. Add More Filling: Spread the remaining dulce de leche filling evenly over the second layer.
6. Top with Third Layer: Place the third cake layer on top.
7. Frost the Cake: Frost the entire cake with the dulce de leche frosting. You can use an offset spatula to create a smooth finish, or you can create swirls and textures for a more rustic look.
8. Garnish (Optional): Drizzle with extra dulce de leche and sprinkle with sea salt flakes, if desired.
9. Chill (Recommended): Refrigerate the cake for at least 30 minutes before serving. This will help the frosting set and make the cake easier to slice.

Tips for Success:

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter, eggs, and buttermilk are at room temperature. This helps them emulsify properly, resulting in a smoother batter and a more tender cake.
• Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter develops the gluten in the flour, which can lead to a tough cake. Mix until just combined.
• Cool Completely: Make sure the cakes are completely cool before frosting. Otherwise, the frosting will melt.
• Sift Powdered Sugar: Sifting the powdered sugar prevents lumps in your frosting.
• Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet frosting, you can reduce the amount of powdered sugar.
• Make Ahead: The cake layers can be baked ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The frosting can also be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just bring it to room temperature and re-whip before using.
• Dulce de Leche Variations: You can find different types of dulce de leche, some are thicker than others. If your dulce de leche is very thick, you might need to add a little more milk to the frosting to achieve the desired consistency.

Troubleshooting:

• Cake is Dry: Make sure you’re not overbaking the cake. Also, ensure you’re using the correct amount of liquid in the batter.
• Cake is Dense: This could be due to overmixing the batter or not creaming the butter and sugar properly.
• Frosting is Too Thin: Add more powdered sugar, a little at a time, until you reach the desired consistency.
• Frosting is Too Thick: Add more milk, a little at a time, until you reach the desired consistency.
• Frosting is Grainy: This could be due to using cold butter or not sifting the powdered sugar.

Storage Instructions:

Store the Dulce de Leche Cake in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving for the best flavor and texture.

Conclusion:

This Dulce de Leche Cake is truly something special, and I wholeheartedly believe it deserves a spot in your baking repertoire. From the incredibly moist and tender crumb to the decadent, caramel-infused frosting, every bite is an explosion of flavor that will leave you wanting more. It’s not just a cake; it’s an experience, a journey into the sweet and comforting world of dulce de leche. What makes this cake a must-try? It’s the perfect balance of textures and tastes. The cake itself is light and airy, providing a delightful contrast to the rich and creamy dulce de leche. The frosting, made with real dulce de leche, is the star of the show, adding a layer of pure indulgence that elevates the entire dessert. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make! While it might look impressive, the recipe is straightforward and doesn’t require any fancy equipment or complicated techniques. Even if you’re a novice baker, you can confidently tackle this recipe and create a show-stopping cake that will impress your friends and family. But the best part? The versatility! While the classic recipe is divine on its own, there are endless ways to customize it to your liking. For a more intense caramel flavor, try adding a layer of dulce de leche filling between the cake layers. You could also incorporate chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, into the frosting for added texture and flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider drizzling the cake with melted chocolate or caramel sauce for an extra touch of decadence. Here are a few serving suggestions to make your Dulce de Leche Cake even more memorable: * Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a classic pairing. * Garnish with fresh berries, such as raspberries or strawberries, to add a touch of brightness and acidity. * Dust the cake with cocoa powder or cinnamon for a warm and inviting presentation. * Pair it with a cup of coffee or tea for the perfect afternoon treat. * For a truly special occasion, consider making individual mini cakes or cupcakes. Don’t be intimidated by the name; this cake is more approachable than you might think. I’ve poured my heart into creating a recipe that is both delicious and easy to follow, and I’m confident that you’ll be thrilled with the results. I truly encourage you to give this recipe a try. Bake it for a special occasion, share it with loved ones, or simply treat yourself to a slice of pure happiness. Once you taste the magic of this Dulce de Leche Cake, I know you’ll be hooked! And most importantly, I want to hear about your experience! Did you make any variations? Did you encounter any challenges? What did your friends and family think? Please share your thoughts and photos in the comments below. I can’t wait to see your creations and hear your stories. Happy baking! I hope this cake brings as much joy to your kitchen as it has to mine. Let me know what you think! Print