Salted Caramel Mousse Layer Cake

Salted Caramel Mousse Layer Cake

The Salted Caramel Mousse Layer Cake is a delightful dessert that combines rich flavors and creamy textures. With layers of fluffy cake, light mousse, and a sweet and salty caramel sauce, this cake is perfect for celebrations or a special treat at home. Let’s learn how to make this amazing cake that everyone will love!

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is fantastic for several reasons! First, it satisfies your sweet tooth with its luscious flavors. Second, it’s visually stunning, making it a great centerpiece for any gathering. Lastly, making this cake is a rewarding experience—it’s a fun challenge that allows you to impress friends and family with your baking skills. Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, or just because, this cake is sure to please!

How to Make Salted Caramel Mousse Layer Cake

Ingredients:

• 1¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 1½ tsp baking powder
• ¼ tsp salt
• ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ cup whole milk
• ¼ cup sour cream or yogurt
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream (cold)
• ½ cup caramel sauce
• 1 tsp sea salt
• 1 tsp gelatin + 2 tbsp water
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 2 tbsp water
• ¼ cup heavy cream
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• ½ tsp sea salt
• Caramel fudge cubes
• Crushed graham crackers or brown sugar crumbs

Directions:

1. Bake the Cake Layers: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line three 6-inch round pans. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, cream the softened butter and brown sugar until fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then mix in the vanilla extract, whole milk, and sour cream. Gradually add the dry ingredients and mix until smooth. Divide the batter evenly among the pans and bake for 22 to 25 minutes. Allow the cakes to cool completely.

2. Make the Mousse: To prepare the mousse, bloom the gelatin in water for 5 minutes. Gently heat the gelatin until it dissolves (you can use a microwave for about 10 seconds). In a separate bowl, whip the cold heavy cream until it reaches stiff peaks. Mix the caramel sauce, sea salt, and melted gelatin together. Gently fold the whipped cream into the caramel mixture. Chill the mousse for about 15 minutes.

3. Make Caramel Sauce: In a saucepan, combine granulated sugar and water over medium heat, stirring until the mixture turns golden brown. Once golden, take it off the heat and stir in the heavy cream, unsalted butter, and sea salt until smooth. Let it cool slightly.

4. Assemble the Cake: Place one cake layer on a serving board. Spread a generous amount of mousse over the first layer. Repeat this process with the second and third layers. Chill the assembled cake in the fridge for at least 4 hours, or until fully set.

5. Finish and Decorate: Finally, pour the cooled caramel sauce over the top of the cake, allowing it to drip down the sides. Decorate with caramel fudge cubes and a sprinkle of crushed graham crackers or brown sugar crumbs.

How to Serve Salted Caramel Mousse Layer Cake

Slice the cake into wedges and serve it chilled. This cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Enjoy each bite of this sweet and salty dessert!

How to Store Salted Caramel Mousse Layer Cake

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It remains fresh for up to 3 days. Be sure to keep it chilled to maintain the mousse texture.

Tips to Make Salted Caramel Mousse Layer Cake

• Make sure all your ingredients, especially the butter and eggs, are at room temperature for the best results.
• Use a kitchen scale to measure ingredients for more accurate baking.
• If the mousse seems too soft, give it a little more time in the fridge before layering.
• For a stronger caramel flavor, try using homemade caramel sauce.

Variation

You can add a layer of chocolate ganache between the mousse layers for a chocolate twist. Alternatively, sprinkle some chopped nuts between the layers for added crunch.

FAQs

Q1: Can I make the cake in advance?
A1: Yes! You can bake the cake layers a day ahead and store them wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature. Assemble the cake on the day you plan to serve it.

Q2: What can I substitute for sour cream?
A2: You can use plain yogurt as a substitute for sour cream in this recipe.

Q3: Is it necessary to use gelatin in the mousse?
A3: Yes, gelatin helps the mousse set properly, giving it that fluffy texture. However, you can look for a vegetarian gelatin alternative if needed.

Enjoy your baking and the delicious Salted Caramel Mousse Layer Cake!