Autumn Embrace Dulce De Leche Cake Recipe

Oh, you guys, my Autumn Embrace Dulce de Leche Cake is like a big, cozy hug! I baked it last fall, and it was so yummy. It’s got all the warm, sweet vibes of autumn.

So, I used gooey dulce de leche and soft cake layers. The spices, um, like cinnamon, make it taste like a crisp fall day. Every bite feels like snuggling by a fire.

You’ll totally want a slice with your coffee, I swear! It’s perfect for chilly evenings with friends. I can’t stop thinking about that creamy frosting!

Come on, let’s bake this cake together! Grab my recipe below and try it. You’ll love it, promise!Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fall-Inspired Flavor: The warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, paired with the creamy dulce de leche, make this cake a perfect autumn treat.
• Reader Favorite: “I made this cake for Thanksgiving and it was the highlight of the evening! Everyone was asking for the recipe!”
• Moist and Tender: The cake comes out soft and tender every time, thanks to the combination of ingredients that lock in moisture.
• Perfect for All Occasions: Whether it’s for a special holiday or just because, this cake elevates any occasion.
• Dulce De Leche Bliss: If you love dulce de leche, this is the cake for you! It’s layered and drizzled with this sweet, creamy treat for an extra indulgent dessert experience.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the cake and filling ahead of time and assemble it just before serving, which is perfect for busy bakers.

Required Kitchen Tools

Before you get started on your Autumn Embrace Dulce De Leche Cake, here are some essential kitchen tools to help you make this cake with ease:

• Mixing Bowls: You’ll need medium and large-sized bowls to mix both dry and wet ingredients.
• Electric Mixer: A hand mixer or stand mixer will make preparing the cake batter and frosting much easier and quicker.
• 9-inch Cake Pans: You’ll need two round 9-inch cake pans for this recipe to create the perfect layers.
• Whisk: A whisk will be helpful for evenly incorporating the dry ingredients.
• Cooling Rack: After baking, it’s crucial to let your cakes cool completely on a cooling rack.
• Piping Bags: For the frosting and for adding some decorative touches if you choose to go that route.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to perfecting this cake.
• Spatula: A rubber spatula will help you gently fold the ingredients and spread the frosting evenly.

Ingredients

Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients you’ll need to create this rich, comforting dessert. Some of these ingredients you might already have in your pantry, while others are a must-have for this dulce de leche sensation!

For the Cake:

• All-Purpose Flour: This serves as the base of the cake, giving it structure.
• Baking Powder: Helps the cake rise, making it light and fluffy.
• Salt: Just a pinch, to balance the sweetness and enhance the flavors.
• Unsalted Butter: Use room-temperature butter for easy mixing.
• Granulated Sugar: This is the main sweetener for the cake.
• Large Eggs: Eggs help bind the ingredients together, making the cake tender.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds a rich flavor and depth to the cake.
• Whole Milk: Keeps the cake moist and tender.
• Cinnamon and Nutmeg: These warm spices infuse the cake with the comforting flavors of autumn.

For the Dulce De Leche Filling:

• Dulce De Leche: The star of the show! This rich caramel-like filling is a blend of sweetened condensed milk and sugar. It’s perfect for both filling and drizzling.
• Heavy Cream: Whipped into the filling, it adds a creamy texture and makes it easy to spread.
• Confectioners’ Sugar: A bit of powdered sugar sweetens the filling to perfection.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds a hint of vanilla flavor to enhance the dulce de leche filling.

For the Whipped Cream Frosting:

• Heavy Cream: This will be whipped into a light and airy frosting for the cake.
• Confectioners’ Sugar: A sweetener for the whipped cream frosting.
• Vanilla Extract: Complements the sweet flavors and brings a lovely aroma.
• Additional Dulce De Leche: For drizzling on top of the cake for extra sweetness.

Variations for the Autumn Embrace Dulce De Leche Cake

One of the best parts about baking is the ability to make a recipe your own! Here are a few variations you can try to customize this cake to your liking:

• Add a Nutty Twist: Toasted pecans or walnuts make a lovely addition to the filling or frosting for added texture and flavor.
• Make it Spicy: If you like a little extra spice in your desserts, try adding a pinch of ground ginger or cloves to the cake batter for even more of a fall-inspired flavor profile.
• Chocolate Lover’s Dream: Add chocolate chips to the cake batter for a chocolate-dulce de leche combination that’s sure to wow your guests.
• Coffee Infusion: Add a teaspoon of instant coffee or espresso powder to the cake batter for a subtle coffee flavor that pairs perfectly with dulce de leche.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to bring the Autumn Embrace Dulce De Leche Cake to life, step by step:

Part 1: Make the Cake Batter

1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pans

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper circles. This ensures that the cakes will come out easily once baked.

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This dry mixture will give your cake the perfect structure and the warm spices that embody the fall season.

3. Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter and granulated sugar using a hand mixer or stand mixer. Beat on medium speed for about 3-4 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy. The butter should be soft but not melted for the best texture in your cake.

4. Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then add the vanilla extract and continue mixing until fully incorporated.

5. Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Milk

Now, reduce the mixer speed to low. Gradually add the dry ingredients in three parts, alternating with the whole milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined after each addition. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense cake.

6. Pour the Batter Into the Pans

Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula. Tap the pans on the counter to release any air bubbles and ensure even baking.

7. Bake the Cakes

Place the pans in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. The cakes should be lightly golden on top and spring back when touched.

8. Cool the Cakes

Remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully turn them out onto a cooling rack to cool completely.

Part 2: Make the Dulce De Leche Filling and Whipped Cream Frosting

1. Prepare the Dulce De Leche Filling

The heart of this cake is the creamy dulce de leche filling that creates the perfect balance between sweetness and richness. Here’s how you can make it:

Whip the Heavy Cream:

In a medium mixing bowl, pour the heavy cream. Use an electric mixer or a stand mixer to beat the cream on high speed until soft peaks form. This may take about 3-4 minutes. Soft peaks should hold their shape but still have a slight bend when you pull the beaters out.

Add the Dulce De Leche and Powdered Sugar:

Once your cream has formed soft peaks, slowly add the dulce de leche and powdered sugar to the whipped cream. Beat on medium speed until the mixture is smooth, thick, and spreadable. The dulce de leche will melt into the whipped cream, creating a silky texture that will serve as the perfect filling for your cake.

Optional: Add a Touch of Vanilla

For an added depth of flavor, you can mix in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. This will complement the caramel-like sweetness of the dulce de leche and bring everything together beautifully.

2. Prepare the Whipped Cream Frosting

The frosting for this cake is light, airy, and just the right amount of sweet. It serves as a wonderful contrast to the rich dulce de leche filling and keeps the cake feeling light and fluffy.

Whip the Cream:

In a chilled mixing bowl, pour the heavy cream (make sure it’s very cold to help it whip up). Using your electric mixer or stand mixer, beat the cream on high speed for about 3-5 minutes until soft peaks form. Just like with the filling, soft peaks should bend slightly when you pull the beaters out, but they should still hold their shape.

Sweeten the Whipped Cream:

Once soft peaks have formed, add in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Continue to beat the cream for another minute or so until stiff peaks form, meaning the whipped cream will hold its shape firmly when you lift the beaters. Be careful not to overwhip, or it could turn into butter!

Test the Frosting:

To check if the frosting is ready, simply dip a spoon in and lift it out — it should hold its shape without being too runny or too stiff. The consistency should be thick enough to spread but still soft and creamy.

3. Assembling the Cake

Now comes the fun part — assembling your Autumn Embrace Dulce De Leche Cake!

Layer the Cakes:

Place the first layer of cake on a serving plate or cake stand. Gently press down to make sure it’s secure. This bottom layer will act as the base for the filling.

Add the Dulce De Leche Filling:

Spread a generous amount of the dulce de leche filling on top of the first cake layer. Use an offset spatula to spread it evenly, making sure to cover all the edges.

Add the Second Layer of Cake:

Place the second cake layer on top of the filled bottom layer. Gently press down to secure it. This will allow the layers to meld together and ensure stability.

Frost the Cake:

Now it’s time to add the light, whipped cream frosting. Starting from the top, spread the frosting gently over the entire surface of the cake using an offset spatula. Work your way around the edges, being sure to cover the sides of the cake as well. If you want a smooth finish, try running a spatula or bench scraper along the sides for a polished look.

Add a Swirl of Dulce De Leche:

For an extra touch of sweetness, drizzle some dulce de leche over the top of the cake. You can make decorative swirls or simply drizzle it in a zigzag pattern for a lovely, rustic look.

Optional: Add a Decorative Touch

If you’re feeling extra creative, you can decorate the cake with some autumn-inspired touches. Try topping it with toasted pecans, cinnamon sticks, or a few sprigs of rosemary for a beautiful seasonal flair. You can also dust the top with a little ground cinnamon or even powdered sugar for an elegant, final touch.

4. Chill the Cake

Once your cake is assembled, let it chill in the refrigerator for about 1-2 hours before serving. This allows the filling to set and the frosting to firm up, making it easier to slice and serve. If you’re making the cake ahead of time, you can refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before serving.

5. Serve and Enjoy

After the cake has chilled, it’s time to slice into it and enjoy! The layers of soft, tender cake, rich dulce de leche filling, and fluffy whipped cream frosting create a symphony of flavors and textures that are perfect for any autumn celebration. Serve it at your next family gathering, holiday dinner, or just as a special treat for yourself.

Part 3: Serving, Storing, and Final Recipe Card

How to Serve Autumn Embrace Dulce De Leche Cake

This cake is perfect for any occasion — from family dinners to holiday parties. The rich flavors and beautiful presentation make it a showstopper that’s bound to impress your guests. Here are some ways to serve it:

1. On Its Own:

• The Autumn Embrace Dulce De Leche Cake is indulgent enough to be served on its own. Slice it into generous pieces and let the layers speak for themselves. The moist cake, the creamy dulce de leche filling, and the whipped cream frosting make this dessert a total treat for your taste buds.

2. With a Side of Fresh Fruit:

• To balance out the sweetness of the cake, serve it with a side of fresh seasonal fruit like sliced pears, apples, or even pomegranate seeds. The bright, fresh flavors of the fruit complement the rich cake perfectly, offering a contrast in texture and flavor.

3. With a Cup of Coffee or Tea:

• This cake pairs wonderfully with a warm beverage. A hot cup of cinnamon-spiced coffee, a latte, or a cup of tea will enhance the flavors and provide the perfect cozy atmosphere, especially when enjoyed on a crisp autumn afternoon.

4. Top with a Scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream:

• If you’re looking to elevate this cake even more, top it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cold, creamy ice cream pairs beautifully with the warm, sweet layers of the cake, creating a dessert experience that’s hard to resist.

5. For Special Occasions:

• This cake is ideal for celebrations like Thanksgiving, Christmas, birthdays, or any event where you want to bring something extra special. Its rich and comforting flavors make it a crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone asking for the recipe!

Storing Autumn Embrace Dulce De Leche Cake

While this cake is best enjoyed fresh, it stores well for a few days, allowing you to indulge in the leftovers! Here’s how to keep it at its best:

1. At Room Temperature:

• If you plan to eat the cake within 1-2 days, you can store it at room temperature. Simply cover the cake with a cake dome or plastic wrap to keep it fresh. Be sure to place it in a cool, dry spot away from direct sunlight.

2. In the Refrigerator:

• For longer storage, cover the cake with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. The cake will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just let it come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving to bring out its full flavor and texture.

3. Freezing the Cake:

• If you want to make the cake ahead of time, you can freeze it! After assembling the cake (but before frosting it), wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to serve, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then frost and decorate as desired.

Autumn Embrace Dulce De Leche Cake Recipe Card

Yield: 12-16 servings
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 3-4 hours (includes chilling time)

Nutrition (per serving, approximately):

Nutrient	Amount per serving
Calories	430 kcal
Protein	3g
Carbohydrates	55g
Fat	22g
Saturated Fat	13g
Sugar	40g
Fiber	1g

Conclusion

The Autumn Embrace Dulce De Leche Cake is the perfect way to celebrate the flavors of fall. With its tender layers of spice-infused cake, creamy dulce de leche filling, and fluffy whipped cream frosting, this dessert is a showstopper in both taste and presentation. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday dinner or enjoying it with a cozy cup of tea, it’s sure to become a new favorite. Try this cake for your next gathering, and watch it become a beloved part of your fall traditions.