Mary Berry Salted Caramel Cake Recipe [Tips & Tricks]

If you’ve got a sweet tooth and love a good baking challenge, Mary Berry’s salted caramel cake is a must-try!

This recipe takes the classic combination of rich, indulgent caramel and a hint of salt to a whole new level, blending them into a fluffy, perfectly balanced cake. The layers of moist sponge and creamy frosting give you the perfect texture, while the salted caramel drizzle adds just the right amount of tangy sweetness. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply treating yourself, this cake will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Mary Berry Salted Caramel Cake Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To make Mary Berry’s Salted Caramel Cake, you’ll need a selection of high-quality ingredients to create the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Here’s a detailed look at each component:

For The Cake

• Butter (unsalted): 250g – The butter acts as the base for the cake’s rich, soft texture. It’s essential to use unsalted butter, as this allows you to control the level of salt in the salted caramel later.
• Caster sugar: 250g – The caster sugar helps achieve a fine crumb structure and lightness in the cake. It dissolves easily, ensuring a smooth batter.
• Eggs: 4 large – Eggs provide structure and moisture to the cake. They help bind the ingredients together, giving the cake a rich, tender crumb.
• Self-raising flour: 250g – Self-raising flour contains baking powder, which helps the cake rise without the need for additional leavening agents.
• Whole milk: 2 tbsp – A small amount of milk is used to thin the batter to the right consistency and provide a slight moisture boost.
• Vanilla extract: 1 tsp – Vanilla adds depth and complexity to the flavor profile of the cake, complementing the richness of the caramel.

For The Salted Caramel

• Granulated sugar: 200g – Granulated sugar is the key to making the caramel. It should be heated slowly and carefully to achieve a golden-brown color, which contributes to the caramel’s signature flavor.
• Unsalted butter: 100g – Butter helps to form the smooth, creamy texture of the caramel. It also adds richness that pairs beautifully with the sweetness.
• Double cream: 200ml – Double cream gives the salted caramel a luxurious, velvety texture. It helps the caramel blend smoothly and prevents it from being overly thick or sticky.
• Sea salt flakes: 1 tsp – This is the defining element of salted caramel. The salt cuts through the sweetness and balances the flavor, creating that perfect sweet-and-salty combination.

For The Frosting

• Butter (unsalted): 200g – Butter serves as the foundation for the frosting. It provides a creamy texture and rich flavor that complements the cake and caramel.
• Icing sugar: 400g – Icing sugar is essential for creating a smooth, fluffy frosting. It ensures the texture is soft and spreadable while maintaining stability.
• Vanilla extract: 1 tsp – Just like in the cake, vanilla extract adds depth to the frosting, enhancing its overall flavor.
• Salted caramel sauce (from the previous step): The caramel sauce you make will be the star of the frosting, adding flavor and richness.

Equipment Needed

To ensure that your baking process goes smoothly, there are a few essential pieces of equipment you’ll need. Here’s a breakdown of the tools that will help you achieve Mary Berry’s Salted Caramel Cake to perfection:

1. Mixing Bowls: You’ll need at least two mixing bowls – one for the cake batter and another for the salted caramel sauce. Ensure these are large enough to handle all the ingredients.
2. Electric Mixer or Stand Mixer: While you can mix the cake batter by hand, an electric mixer or stand mixer will save time and ensure a light, airy texture for your cake. It will also help you achieve the perfect consistency for the frosting.
3. Whisk: A whisk is essential for mixing the caramel, as it helps incorporate the sugar into the butter and cream smoothly, preventing any lumps or separation.
4. Spatula: A rubber spatula will help scrape down the sides of the bowl, ensuring all ingredients are well-incorporated, and also for spreading frosting onto the cake.
5. Cake Tins: Two 20cm (8-inch) round cake tins will give you an even and symmetrical cake. These will need to be lined with baking parchment or greased thoroughly.
6. Heavy-bottomed Saucepan: A sturdy saucepan is vital for making the caramel. The even heat distribution will prevent the sugar from burning as it melts, ensuring a smooth caramelization.
7. Piping Bag (Optional): If you prefer a more decorative frosting technique, a piping bag fitted with a star nozzle can be used to pipe the frosting onto the cake for a beautiful presentation.
8. Cooling Rack: After baking the cakes, it’s important to cool them on a rack to prevent them from becoming soggy. This will also help maintain the integrity of the texture as they cool down.

How To Make Mary Berry’s Salted Caramel Cake

Now that we’ve gathered all the ingredients and equipment, let’s dive into the steps to make this showstopping cake. Each stage is important, and patience is key to creating a delicious, well-balanced dessert.

Step 1: Preheat And Prepare The Cake Tins

Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F), or 160°C (320°F) for fan ovens. Grease and line your two 20cm cake tins with parchment paper to prevent the cake from sticking during baking.

Step 2: Make The Cake Batter

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and caster sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy. This process should take around 3-5 minutes.

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. It’s important to scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is well incorporated.

Next, sift the self-raising flour into the mixture and fold it in gently using a spatula or spoon. Add the milk and vanilla extract, and mix until smooth. The batter should be soft and slightly pourable but not runny.

Step 3: Bake The Cake

Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake tins. Level the tops with a spatula, then place the tins in the preheated oven.

Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean. Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and allow them to cool in the tins for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 4: Make The Salted Caramel Sauce

While the cakes are cooling, prepare the salted caramel sauce. In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, melt the sugar over low heat, stirring constantly.

As the sugar begins to melt, it will clump together, but keep stirring to ensure it melts evenly. Once it turns a deep amber color, add the butter and stir until it’s fully incorporated.

Slowly pour in the double cream, stirring continuously to avoid any splatters. Once smooth, remove from heat and stir in the sea salt. Allow the caramel to cool slightly before using it.

Step 5: Make The Frosting

For the frosting, beat the butter and icing sugar together until light and fluffy. This can take around 5 minutes.

Add the vanilla extract and 2-3 tablespoons of the cooled salted caramel sauce (reserve the rest for drizzling). Beat until everything is well combined, and the frosting is soft and spreadable.

Step 6: Assemble The Cake

Place one of the cooled cake layers on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of salted caramel frosting over the top, followed by a drizzle of the salted caramel sauce. Place the second layer of cake on top, pressing gently to secure it in place.

Spread the remaining frosting evenly over the top and sides of the cake. If desired, use a piping bag to add decorative swirls to the top. Finish with a final drizzle of salted caramel sauce for that extra indulgence.

Expert Tips

1. Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter, eggs, and milk are all at room temperature before beginning. This will help the ingredients combine more easily, resulting in a smoother batter and a more consistent texture.

2. Preventing Caramel Crystals: When making caramel, resist the urge to stir the sugar once it starts melting. Stirring can cause the sugar to crystallize. Instead, gently swirl the pan to ensure even melting.

3. Chill the Frosting: If the frosting becomes too soft or runny while working with it, pop it in the fridge for a few minutes to firm it up before continuing.

4. Don’t Overbake: Overbaking can dry out your cake, so keep a close eye on it towards the end of baking. You want a moist, tender crumb, not a dry one.

5. Customize the Salt Level: Feel free to adjust the amount of sea salt in the caramel to suit your taste. More salt will give it a bolder salted caramel flavor, while less will keep the sweetness more pronounced.

Mary Berry’s Salted Caramel Cake is a true crowd-pleaser, with its rich, moist cake layers, luxurious salted caramel filling, and smooth frosting that ties everything together. This cake is perfect for a special occasion, a celebratory dessert, or simply a treat to enjoy with family and friends.

By following these detailed steps and expert tips, you’ll be able to create a dessert that not only tastes amazing but looks stunning too. Whether you’re a novice baker or a seasoned pro, this salted caramel cake is sure to impress!.

Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Salted Caramel Cake

Mary Berry’s Salted Caramel Cake is a showstopper, known for its luscious layers and rich flavor profile. While the traditional recipe is a delightful treat on its own, experimenting with variations can add exciting new dimensions to the cake. Here are some easy and fun ways to put a twist on the classic salted caramel cake, making it even more irresistible:

1. Add a Nutty Crunch: For those who enjoy texture contrasts, adding crushed nuts to the cake can elevate the flavor and crunch. Chopped pecans, hazelnuts, or even salted peanuts would pair wonderfully with the soft, moist cake and caramel. You can sprinkle the nuts on top of the frosting or fold them into the batter before baking.

2. Coffee-Infused Salted Caramel: If you’re a fan of coffee, try infusing your salted caramel sauce with a bit of espresso or strong brewed coffee. The bitterness of the coffee will balance the sweetness of the caramel, creating a more complex flavor profile that pairs beautifully with the cake.

3. Chocolate Ganache Layer: For chocolate lovers, adding a rich chocolate ganache layer between the cake layers or drizzling it over the top will make this cake even more decadent. The bittersweet chocolate balances the sweetness of the caramel, giving a luxurious feel to every bite.

4. Salted Caramel Buttercream: Instead of a traditional frosting, consider making a salted caramel buttercream. It’s a bit lighter and fluffier compared to a heavier frosting or icing. Simply add more salted caramel sauce to the buttercream recipe, adjusting the level of salt to your preference. This variation not only enhances the flavor but also gives the cake a smooth, velvety texture.

5. Spiced Salted Caramel Cake: For a seasonal twist, you can add a touch of spice to the cake batter. Ground cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a pinch of ginger can add warmth and depth to the cake’s flavor. These spices enhance the caramel without overpowering it, making it perfect for fall or winter celebrations.

6. Caramelized Banana Filling: To complement the salted caramel, add a layer of caramelized banana slices. The banana’s natural sweetness and the caramel’s rich flavor create a mouthwatering combination. Layer this in between the cake layers or use it as a topping.

7. Boozy Salted Caramel: For an adult twist, try adding a splash of rum, bourbon, or a coffee liqueur like Kahlúa to the salted caramel sauce. The alcohol adds an extra layer of flavor that pairs wonderfully with the richness of the cake.

By experimenting with these variations, you can give Mary Berry’s classic Salted Caramel Cake a new life each time you make it, keeping your baking fresh and exciting!

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

While Mary Berry’s Salted Caramel Cake is likely to disappear quickly, there may be a few slices left over. Properly storing any leftovers ensures that you can enjoy this delicious cake later without sacrificing flavor or texture. Here are some best practices for storing salted caramel cake:

1. Cool the Cake Completely: Before storing the cake, allow it to cool completely. This prevents condensation from forming inside the storage container, which can make the cake soggy.

2. Wrap It Well: If you have leftover slices, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. For an extra layer of protection, you can wrap the cake in a layer of aluminum foil before placing it in the container.

3. Refrigeration for Freshness: Given the creaminess of the frosting and the salted caramel filling, it’s a good idea to store the cake in the refrigerator. The cold helps preserve the flavor and texture of the frosting, as well as prevent the caramel from becoming overly runny. However, don’t let it sit in the fridge for too long, as refrigeration can dry out cakes if left too long.

4. Bring to Room Temperature Before Serving: Cold cake can lose some of its magic, so before serving leftovers, allow the cake to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes. This helps the frosting soften, and the flavor of the salted caramel will be at its peak.

5. Freezing Leftovers: If you have a significant amount of leftover cake, freezing it is a good option. To freeze, slice the cake into individual portions, wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature, and it will taste as fresh as the day it was made. Note that while the cake will freeze well, the frosting may soften slightly after freezing, so it’s best to freeze the cake without the frosting if possible.

By following these simple storage tips, you can extend the life of your salted caramel cake and enjoy it for days to come.

What Goes Well With Salted Caramel Cake

Mary Berry’s Salted Caramel Cake is an indulgent dessert that pairs well with various accompaniments. Whether you’re serving it at a party or enjoying it at home with family, there are several delightful combinations to enhance the experience. Here are some suggestions for what goes well with salted caramel cake:

1. Fresh Berries: The tartness of fresh berries-like raspberries, strawberries, or blackberries-offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the salted caramel. The fruity acidity balances the sweetness of the cake, creating a harmonious flavor experience.

2. Whipped Cream or Clotted Cream: For an extra indulgence, serve your salted caramel cake with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or thick clotted cream. The creamy texture pairs beautifully with the dense cake and highlights the salted caramel.

3. Coffee or Espresso: A cup of strong coffee or espresso complements the flavors of salted caramel cake beautifully. The bitterness of the coffee cuts through the sweetness of the cake, offering a delightful contrast. For a special touch, try an iced latte or cappuccino for a more indulgent coffee experience.

4. Vanilla Ice Cream: If you’re craving something cooler, a scoop of vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully with the warmth and richness of salted caramel cake. The creamy, smooth texture of the ice cream softens the cake’s caramel flavor and adds a refreshing contrast.

5. Chocolate Sauce or Ganache: For those who love chocolate, a drizzle of warm chocolate sauce or ganache on the side makes an irresistible pairing. The bitterness of the chocolate balances the salted caramel’s sweetness, creating a luxurious combination.

6. Nuts and Toffee Pieces: Add an extra crunch to your salted caramel cake by serving it with some candied nuts or crushed toffee. The added texture and sweetness bring out the cake’s flavor and create a more complex dessert experience.

7. Sparkling Wine or Champagne: If you’re looking for an elegant pairing, sparkling wine or champagne works surprisingly well with salted caramel cake. The effervescence of the wine refreshes the palate after each rich bite of cake, making it the perfect drink to enjoy during a celebration.

These pairings elevate the cake’s flavor profile and create a complete dessert experience that your guests are sure to love.

Conclusion

Mary Berry’s Salted Caramel Cake is a beloved classic for a reason-it’s a perfect combination of rich, moist cake, decadent salted caramel, and velvety frosting. By exploring easy recipe variations, you can take this dessert to the next level, whether by adding crunchy nuts, infusing coffee flavors, or layering in chocolate. Storing leftovers properly ensures that you can enjoy the cake for days, and pairing it with complementary flavors like fresh berries, whipped cream, or coffee makes each slice even more delightful.

Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just want to enjoy a slice of indulgence at home, Mary Berry’s Salted Caramel Cake is sure to impress. Its versatility in flavor combinations and accompanying sides ensures that it remains a timeless favorite for any dessert lover.

FAQs

What Are The Main Ingredients For Mary Berry’s Salted Caramel Cake?

The main ingredients for Mary Berry’s salted caramel cake include self-raising flour, unsalted butter, caster sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, milk, and a homemade salted caramel sauce made from butter, sugar, cream, and sea salt.

Can I Use Regular Flour Instead Of Self-raising Flour In This Recipe?

You can use plain (all-purpose) flour instead of self-raising flour, but you will need to add baking powder. For every 100g of plain flour, add 1 teaspoon of baking powder to achieve a similar rise.

How Do I Make The Salted Caramel Sauce For The Cake?

To make the salted caramel sauce, melt butter and sugar in a pan until golden brown, then add double cream and stir until smooth. Add a pinch of sea salt to taste, and allow it to cool before using it in the cake batter or as a drizzle.

Can I Use Salted Butter Instead Of Unsalted Butter For The Cake?

It’s best to use unsalted butter for the cake batter to control the saltiness of the cake. However, you can use salted butter in the caramel sauce if preferred, as it will add a slight salty contrast to the sweetness.

How Can I Make The Cake More Moist?

To make the cake more moist, you can add a little extra milk or yogurt to the batter. Additionally, you can ensure the cake doesn’t overbake, which can dry it out. A good way to check is to insert a skewer, and if it comes out clean, the cake is done.

How Do I Store Mary Berry’s Salted Caramel Cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it for longer, you can refrigerate it, but it may alter the texture of the frosting. For best results, bring the cake to room temperature before serving.

Can I Make The Salted Caramel Cake In Advance?

Yes, you can make the cake in advance. The cake layers can be baked and stored in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days. The salted caramel sauce and frosting can also be made ahead and kept in the fridge, but ensure to bring them to room temperature before assembling the cake.

What Can I Use As An Alternative To Salted Caramel If I Don’t Like Caramel?

If you’re not a fan of caramel, you could use a chocolate ganache or a rich vanilla buttercream as an alternative. A fruit jam or curd, such as raspberry or lemon, could also provide a nice contrast to the cake.

How Do I Achieve The Perfect Caramel Flavor Without It Becoming Too Bitter?

To achieve a perfect caramel flavor, melt the sugar slowly over medium heat and avoid stirring too much. Once the sugar turns golden brown, add the cream immediately, being careful not to overcook the caramel, which can turn it bitter. Adding a pinch of salt can balance out any bitterness.

Can I Freeze Mary Berry’s Salted Caramel Cake?

Yes, you can freeze the cake layers. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to serve, let the cake thaw in the fridge overnight before frosting and assembling.