Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake
The Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake is a heavenly blend of rich chocolate and creamy caramel that will satisfy any sweet tooth. Perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or just a weekend treat, this cake stands out with its moist texture and decadent flavors. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a quiet evening at home, this dessert is sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of chocolate and dulce de leche creates a rich and satisfying taste.
- Easy to Follow: With simple steps, even novice bakers can create this impressive cake.
- Versatile Occasion Fit: Perfect for birthday parties, holidays, or just a sweet indulgence.
- Impressive Presentation: A beautifully layered cake that looks as good as it tastes.
- Rich in Texture: The cake is moist and fluffy with a creamy topping that complements it perfectly.
Tools and Preparation
To create the perfect Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake, you’ll need some essential tools to help streamline your baking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking pans (two 9-inch round)
- Sifter
- Spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Electric mixer: Ensures your batter is mixed evenly for a fluffier cake.
- Baking pans: Two 9-inch pans provide the ideal shape for layer cakes.
- Sifter: Prevents clumps in cocoa powder and flour for smooth batter.
Ingredients
The ultimate combo of chocolate and caramel come together in this delicious Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake.
Dry Ingredients
- 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
Wet Ingredients
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 3/4 cup buttermilk (room temperature)
- 3/4 cup hot water
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 large egg whites
For the Frosting
- 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)
- 2 oz dark chocolate (finely chopped)
- 2 oz heavy whipping cream
How to Make Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pans
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round baking pans with butter or cooking spray. Dust with flour to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, sift together:
1. All-purpose flour
2. Granulated sugar
3. Dutch-processed cocoa powder
4. Baking soda
5. Baking powder
6. Salt
Mix until well combined.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together:
1. Vegetable oil
2. Buttermilk
3. Hot water
4. Eggs
5. Vanilla extract
Ensure everything is well blended before combining with the dry mixture.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients while mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want a smooth batter without lumps.
Step 5: Bake the Cake Layers
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake in the preheated oven for about 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Cool the Cakes
Remove from the oven and let them cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
Step 7: Prepare Frosting
Beat together:
– Dark brown sugar
– Unsalted butter
Until light and fluffy. Add dulce de leche, melted dark chocolate, and heavy cream; mix until smooth.
Step 8: Assemble Your Cake
Once cooled, place one layer on your serving plate. Spread frosting on top, then add the second layer and frost the entire cake generously.
Now you have your wonderfully rich Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake ready to be enjoyed!
How to Serve Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake
Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake is a decadent dessert that can be served in various delightful ways. Whether you want to impress guests or enjoy a slice at home, these serving suggestions will elevate your experience.
Classic Slice
- Serve a generous slice of the cake on its own for a rich chocolate experience.
Ice Cream Pairing
- Top each slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creamy texture complements the cake’s richness beautifully.
Fresh Berries
- Add a side of fresh raspberries or strawberries. Their tartness balances the sweetness of the dulce de leche.
Chocolate Drizzle
- Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the cake just before serving for an extra indulgent touch.
Whipped Cream
- A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds lightness and creaminess, making every bite heavenly.
Coffee or Tea
- Pair your cake with a warm cup of coffee or tea. The warmth enhances the flavors and makes for a cozy dessert experience.

How to Perfect Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake
To make sure your Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake turns out perfectly every time, follow these expert tips.
- Measure ingredients accurately: Use measuring cups and spoons to ensure the correct ratios for best results.
- Sift cocoa powder: Sifting helps eliminate lumps in the cocoa powder, resulting in a smoother batter.
- Room temperature ingredients: Ensure eggs, buttermilk, and butter are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
- Don’t overmix: Mix just until combined to prevent the cake from becoming dense.
- Use quality chocolate: Opt for high-quality dark chocolate for melting; it makes a significant difference in flavor.
- Cool properly: Allow cakes to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting and sliding of the frosting.
Best Side Dishes for Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake
Pairing side dishes with your Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some fantastic options:
-
Vanilla Ice Cream
A classic choice that adds creaminess and balances sweetness. -
Fresh Fruit Salad
A mix of seasonal fruits provides freshness and acidity that complements the cake’s richness. -
Chocolate Mousse
This airy dessert enhances the chocolate flavor while adding an elegant touch. -
Caramel Sauce
Drizzling additional caramel brings out more dulce de leche notes and enhances overall sweetness. -
Mocha Coffee
The coffee’s bitterness pairs well with sweet flavors, enhancing the cake’s taste profile. -
Cheese Platter
A selection of mild cheeses can create a savory contrast that heightens your tasting experience. -
Nut Brittle
The crunchiness of nut brittle adds texture, making each bite more exciting. -
Spiced Chai Latte
This warm beverage offers comforting spices that complement the cake’s chocolate flavor beautifully.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking a Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake can be tricky. Here are some common mistakes to avoid to ensure your cake turns out perfectly.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately: Using the wrong measurements can lead to a dense or dry cake. Always use a kitchen scale or measuring cups specifically designed for baking.
- Skipping room temperature ingredients: Cold eggs and butter can affect how well they mix together. Let your eggs and butter sit out for about 30 minutes before baking.
- Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can make the cake tough. Mix until just combined; it’s okay if there are a few lumps.
- Using the wrong oven temperature: An oven that’s too hot can burn the outside of the cake while leaving it raw inside. Use an oven thermometer for accuracy.
- Not letting the cake cool properly: Cutting into a warm cake can result in a messy slice. Allow your cake to cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- item Store leftover Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake in an airtight container.
- item It can last for up to 5 days in the fridge without losing flavor.
Freezing Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake
- item Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
- item The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months, maintaining its taste and texture.
Reheating Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on low power for 15-20 seconds until warm.
- Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid for even warming.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of chocolate?
Yes, you can use milk chocolate or white chocolate instead of dark chocolate for different flavor profiles.
What is dulce de leche?
Dulce de leche is a sweet caramel-like sauce made by slowly heating sweetened milk. It adds richness to desserts like this Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup like regular flour.
How do I know when my cake is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, your cake is ready!
Can I customize this recipe?
Certainly! You can add nuts, chocolate chips, or even fruit layers between the cake layers for added texture and flavor.
Final Thoughts
The Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake is not only delicious but also versatile, making it perfect for any occasion. Feel free to experiment with flavors and toppings to make it uniquely yours. Whether you’re serving it at a party or enjoying it as an everyday treat, this cake is sure to impress!

Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful richness of Chocolate Dulce de Leche Cake. This elegant dessert combines layers of moist chocolate cake with a luscious dulce de leche frosting, creating a symphony of flavors that will enchant any sweet tooth. Perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or a cozy night in, this cake not only tastes divine but also presents beautifully. With its easy-to-follow steps, even beginner bakers can craft this stunning treat. Elevate your dessert game and impress your guests with this creamy caramel chocolate masterpiece that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup Dutch-processed cocoa powder
- 1 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 3/4 cup buttermilk
- 3/4 cup hot water
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 large egg whites
- 1 cup dark brown sugar
- 1 1/2 cups unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup Dulce de Leche
- 2 oz dark chocolate
- 2 oz heavy whipping cream
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round baking pans.
- In a bowl, sift together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, whisk together vegetable oil, buttermilk, hot water, eggs, and vanilla extract.
- Gradually combine wet and dry ingredients until just mixed; avoid overmixing.
- Divide batter between prepared pans and bake for about 35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool cakes in pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks.
- For frosting: Beat butter and brown sugar until fluffy; mix in dulce de leche and melted dark chocolate until smooth.
- Assemble by layering cake with frosting in between and on top.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 39g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 70mg