Introduction: 

Experience the epitome of luxury with our Vanilla Bean Cake with Salted Caramel Buttercream recipe. This divine dessert combines the delicate essence of vanilla beans with the rich sweetness of salted caramel, resulting in a cake that's both sophisticated and utterly indulgent. Follow our recipe to create this masterpiece that will leave your taste buds tingling with delight.




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Ingredients:

For the Vanilla Bean Cake:

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs, room temperature
1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
Seeds scraped from 1 vanilla bean pod
1 cup buttermilk

For the Salted Caramel Buttercream:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1/2 cup salted caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

For Assembly:

Additional salted caramel sauce, for drizzling
Vanilla bean pods for garnish (optional)


Instructions:

Preparation: 

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper for easy removal.


Making the Vanilla Bean Cake: 

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined. Set aside.


In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and scraped vanilla bean seeds.


Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.


Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.


Making the Salted Caramel Buttercream: 

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until light and fluffy. Add the salted caramel sauce, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt, and beat until smooth and well combined.


Assembly: 

Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a layer of salted caramel buttercream on top. Repeat with the remaining layers, stacking them on top of each other.


Use the remaining salted caramel buttercream to frost the top and sides of the cake, creating a smooth and even layer.


Finishing Touches: 

Drizzle additional salted caramel sauce over the top of the cake for a decorative touch. Garnish with vanilla bean pods, if desired.


Serving: 

Slice and serve this Vanilla Bean Cake with Salted Caramel Buttercream to amazed guests or enjoy it as a decadent treat for yourself. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator.


Conclusion:

Elevate your dessert experience with our Vanilla Bean Cake with Salted Caramel Buttercream, a luxurious confection that combines the timeless appeal of vanilla with the irresistible allure of salted caramel. With its moist and tender crumb, fragrant vanilla aroma, and silky smooth buttercream, this cake is sure to captivate the senses and leave a lasting impression. Whether for a special occasion or simply to indulge in a moment of pure decadence, this masterpiece is guaranteed to satisfy your sweetest cravings. Treat yourself and your loved ones to the ultimate dessert experience with this heavenly creation!