Dulce De Leche Cake (Golden Key Cake)

A Dulce de Leche Cake (also known as the Golden Key Cake) is a rich, caramel-flavored masterpiece inspired by the popular Golden Key caramel candy. It layers soft sponge cake with creamy, decadent dulce de leche frosting, making it a caramel lover’s dream!

Ingredients

For the Sponge Cake:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup whole milk

For the Dulce de Leche Filling:

• 1 can (14 oz) dulce de leche (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Dulce de Leche Buttercream:

• 1 ½ cups unsalted butter, softened
• 1 can (14 oz) dulce de leche
• 3-4 cups powdered sugar (adjust for desired sweetness)
• 2 tbsp heavy cream
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For Garnish (Optional):

• Grated white or milk chocolate
• Caramel shards or candy decorations
• Extra dulce de leche drizzle

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Directions

1. Make the Sponge Cake:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
4. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
6. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

2. Prepare the Dulce de Leche Filling:

1. In a medium bowl, whisk the dulce de leche, heavy cream, and vanilla extract together until smooth and slightly thickened.
2. Set aside in the refrigerator to cool while you prepare the buttercream.

3. Make the Dulce de Leche Buttercream:

1. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter on medium-high speed until creamy and smooth, about 2-3 minutes.
2. Add the dulce de leche and mix until fully incorporated.
3. Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, beating on low speed until combined.
4. Stir in the heavy cream and vanilla extract, then increase the speed to medium-high and beat until light and fluffy.
5. Adjust the consistency with more powdered sugar if needed.

4. Assemble the Cake:

1. Once the cake layers are completely cool, level them by trimming any domed tops if needed.
2. Place the first cake layer on a serving plate. Spread half of the dulce de leche filling over the top.
3. Add the second cake layer and spread the remaining filling on top.
4. Frost the top and sides of the cake with the dulce de leche buttercream, smoothing it out for an elegant finish.

5. Garnish (Optional):

1. Decorate the cake with grated chocolate, caramel shards, or drizzle extra dulce de leche over the top.
2. Chill the cake in the fridge for about 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors set.

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This Golden Key Cake is a luxurious, melt-in-your-mouth dessert that’s perfect for special occasions. Let me know if you’d like any tweaks or additional tips!