Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake

The Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake is a delightful fusion of rich chocolate and sweet caramel flavors. Perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or just a sweet treat at home, this cake brings a touch of indulgence to any occasion. The creamy dulce de leche adds a unique twist that sets this dessert apart from traditional cakes.

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

PIN THIS!PIN THIS!

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Cake:
• For the Frosting:
• For Garnish:
• How to Make Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Prepare Your Cake Pans
• Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
• Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
• Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
• Step 6: Bake the Cakes
• Step 7: Cool Down
• Step 8: Make Frosting
• Step 9: Assemble Your Cake
• Step 10: Prepare Ganache Topping
• How to Serve Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake
• For a Festive Occasion
• With Ice Cream
• As Individual Slices
• Drizzle with Sauce
• How to Perfect Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake
• Best Side Dishes for Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake
• Reheating Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake?
• How do I make Dulce de Leche at home?
• Can I use other types of chocolate in this recipe?
• How do I prevent my Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake from sinking?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Decadent Flavor: Enjoy the rich combination of chocolate and caramel that makes every bite unforgettable.
• Versatile Occasions: Ideal for birthdays, holidays, or just a weekend indulgence with family and friends.
• Easy Preparation: With simple steps and common ingredients, you can whip up this delicious cake without stress.
• Impressive Presentation: This cake not only tastes good but also looks stunning on any dessert table.
• Customizable Toppings: Add your favorite fruits, nuts, or extra caramel for a personal touch.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake, having the right tools is essential. These kitchen tools will make your baking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups
• Whisk
• Rubber spatula
• 9-inch round cake pans
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients properly to achieve the right texture.
• 9-inch round cake pans: Provide the perfect shape for your cake layers, ensuring even cooking.

Ingredients

The ultimate combo of chocolate and caramel come together in this delicious Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake.

For the Cake:

• 1 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup Dutch-processed cocoa powder (sifted)
• 1 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 3/4 cup buttermilk (room temperature)
• 3/4 cup hot water
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tsp vanilla extract

For the Frosting:

• 3 large egg whites
• 1 cup dark brown sugar (lightly packed)
• 1 1/2 cups unsalted butter (cubed, room temperature)
• 1/4 cup Dulce de Leche (storebought or homemade)

For Garnish:

• 2 oz dark chocolate (finely chopped)
• 2 oz heavy whipping cream

How to Make Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cake bakes evenly from start to finish.

Step 2: Prepare Your Cake Pans

Grease two 9-inch round cake pans with butter or cooking spray. Then, line the bottoms with parchment paper for easy removal after baking.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the following dry ingredients:
1. All-purpose flour
2. Granulated sugar
3. Dutch-processed cocoa powder (sifted)
4. Baking soda
5. Baking powder
6. Salt

Whisk them together until fully blended.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together:
1. Vegetable oil
2. Buttermilk
3. Hot water
4. Eggs
5. Vanilla extract

Stir until well combined.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just blended. Do not overmix; some lumps are okay.

Step 6: Bake the Cakes

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake in preheated oven for about 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool Down

Once baked, remove pans from oven and let them cool in pans for about 10 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Step 8: Make Frosting

While cakes are cooling, prepare your frosting by beating egg whites with dark brown sugar over a double boiler until warm to touch. Transfer to a mixing bowl and beat until stiff peaks form. Gradually add room-temperature butter until smooth, then mix in dulce de leche until well combined.

Step 9: Assemble Your Cake

Once cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread an even layer of frosting over it before placing the second layer on top. Frost the top and sides as desired.

Step 10: Prepare Ganache Topping

In a small saucepan over low heat, combine chopped dark chocolate and heavy cream until melted and smooth. Pour ganache over frosted cake allowing it to drip down the sides for an elegant finish.

Enjoy every slice of your homemade Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake!

How to Serve Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake

This delightful Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake is perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, or just a cozy dessert at home, serving it right can enhance its flavors and presentation.

For a Festive Occasion

• Garnish with Fresh Berries: Add a handful of strawberries or raspberries on top for a pop of color and tartness.
• Serve with Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds lightness and balances the richness.

With Ice Cream

• Pair with Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy texture of vanilla ice cream complements the chocolate cake beautifully.
• Try Salted Caramel Ice Cream: This adds an extra layer of flavor that goes hand-in-hand with the dulce de leche.

As Individual Slices

• Use Cake Stands: Present individual slices on small cake stands for an elegant touch at parties.
• Add Chocolate Shavings: Sprinkle chocolate shavings over each slice for a decorative finish.

Drizzle with Sauce

• Top with Extra Dulce de Leche: Drizzle more dulce de leche on each slice to intensify the caramel flavor.
• Chocolate Ganache Drizzle: A warm chocolate ganache over the top creates a decadent effect.

PIN THIS!

How to Perfect Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake

Achieving the perfect Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your cake turns out amazing every time.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure eggs and butter are at room temperature for better mixing and volume.
• Sift Dry Ingredients: Sifting flour and cocoa prevents lumps, resulting in a smoother batter.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mix just until ingredients are combined to avoid a dense cake.
• Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to verify that your oven is at the correct temperature for baking.
• Allow Cake to Cool Completely: Letting the cake cool fully before frosting helps the icing stay intact without melting.
• Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container to retain moisture and freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake

Complementing your Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake with the right side dishes can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great options:

1. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits chopped into bite-sized pieces offers freshness alongside the rich cake.
2. Coconut Macaroons: Chewy coconut macaroons provide a delightful texture contrast to the smooth cake.
3. Chocolate Mousse: Light, airy chocolate mousse can be served as a side for an indulgent experience.
4. Coffee or Espresso: A cup of strong coffee enhances the flavors of chocolate and caramel beautifully.
5. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses, especially creamy brie or tangy goat cheese, pairs nicely with dessert wines.
6. Caramelized Bananas: Sautéing bananas in butter and brown sugar creates a warm treat that complements the flavors of dulce de leche perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake can be a joy, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are key mistakes that could affect your cake’s success.

• Incorrect measurements: Always measure ingredients accurately. Using too much flour or sugar can lead to a dense cake.
• Neglecting room temperature ingredients: Ensure eggs and butter are at room temperature. Cold ingredients can result in uneven mixing and texture.
• Not sifting cocoa powder: Sifting the cocoa powder removes lumps, ensuring a smooth batter. Skipping this step can yield an uneven flavor distribution.
• Overmixing the batter: Mix just until ingredients are combined. Overmixing can create a tough cake rather than a light and fluffy one.
• Ignoring oven temperature: Preheat your oven properly. Baking at the wrong temperature can lead to cakes that are undercooked or burnt.

PIN THIS!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
• The cake will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake

• Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, for optimal freshness.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

Reheating Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place the cake on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 20-30 seconds. This method keeps it moist.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat with a lid for about 5 minutes, checking frequently to prevent burning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common questions about making a Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake.

What is Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake?

Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake combines rich chocolate layers with creamy dulce de leche, creating a decadent dessert perfect for any occasion.

How do I make Dulce de Leche at home?

You can make dulce de leche by simmering sweetened condensed milk over low heat until it thickens and caramelizes, typically taking about an hour.

Can I use other types of chocolate in this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute semi-sweet or milk chocolate if you prefer a sweeter flavor instead of dark chocolate.

How do I prevent my Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake from sinking?

Ensure your baking powder is fresh and avoid overmixing the batter. Both will help maintain the structure as it bakes.

Final Thoughts

The Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake is both rich and versatile, making it an ideal centerpiece for any gathering or celebration. You can customize this recipe by adding nuts or experimenting with different flavors in the frosting. Enjoy the delightful combination of chocolate and caramel in every bite!