burnt sugar cake recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best burnt sugar cake recipe

I’m so excited to share with you my favorite burnt sugar cake recipe, a classic dessert that never fails to impress. This sweet treat has been a staple in many American households for generations, and its rich history is a testament to its enduring popularity.

The burnt sugar cake gets its name from the caramelized sugar crust that forms on top of the cake during baking, giving it a deep brown color and a crunchy texture. When I first tried this recipe, I was hooked – the combination of moist cake, gooey caramel, and crunchy sugar is absolute perfection.

My family loves it when I make this cake for special occasions, and it’s also a regular feature in our weekly meal planning. One of the reasons I adore this recipe is that it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring only basic pantry staples and minimal preparation time.

The result is a show-stopping dessert that’s sure to be the centerpiece of any gathering. In terms of health benefits, this cake may not be the most virtuous option, but it’s made with wholesome ingredients like real butter and eggs, which provide essential nutrients for our bodies.

Plus, the burnt sugar crust adds a delightful textural element that makes each bite feel like a treat. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply want to satisfy your sweet tooth, this burnt sugar cake recipe is an absolute must-try.

So go ahead and give it a try – your taste buds will thank you!

Burnt Sugar Cake

4.8 from 563 votes

This burnt sugar cake features a deeply caramelized flavor from a homemade burnt sugar syrup. The tender, moist crumb is complemented by a rich caramel frosting, making it a nostalgic and indulgent dessert.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time35 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time55 mins
Servings: 12Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 420 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Burnt Sugar Syrup

1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup boiling water

For the Cake

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup buttermilk
1/2 cup burnt sugar syrup

For the Burnt Sugar Frosting

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
1/4 cup burnt sugar syrup
2 tablespoons milk, or as needed
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

👨‍🍳Directions

1Make the burnt sugar syrup: Place 1 cup granulated sugar in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
2Cook, stirring constantly with a metal spoon, until the sugar melts and turns a deep amber color, about 8 to 10 minutes.
3Remove from heat and carefully pour in 1/2 cup boiling water, stirring until smooth; the mixture will bubble vigorously.
4Let the syrup cool completely before using.
5Preheat the oven to 350°F.
6Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.
7In a large bowl, cream together 1/2 cup softened butter and 1 cup granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
8Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
9In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon salt.
10Add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture alternately with 1 cup buttermilk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture.
11Mix until just combined, then fold in 1/2 cup of the cooled burnt sugar syrup.
12Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
13Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
14Allow the cake to cool in the pan on a wire rack for 10 minutes, then turn out onto the rack to cool completely.
15Make the frosting: In a large bowl, beat 1/2 cup softened butter until creamy.
16Gradually add 4 cups powdered sugar, 1/4 cup burnt sugar syrup, 2 tablespoons milk, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
17Beat on medium speed until smooth and spreadable, adding more milk if needed.
18Once the cake is completely cool, spread the frosting evenly over the top.

🔧Equipment

Medium saucepan
9×13 inch baking pan
Electric mixer
Mixing bowls
Measuring cups and spoons
Wire rack

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 420 kcal🧈Total Fat: 16g💛Saturated Fat: 10g❤️Cholesterol: 65mg🧂Sodium: 320mg🌾Total Carbs: 68g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 50g🥩Protein: 4g

📝Notes

For a deeper flavor, let the burnt sugar syrup darken slightly more, but be careful not to burn it. The syrup can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.

Watch Video Of How Burnt Sugar Cake Works

One of the best things about this recipe is how well it holds up over time – even when stored at room temperature for several days or frozen for months later.

To reheat leftover slices of this delicious dessert, simply pop them in the microwave or toaster oven until warm and fragrant.

Serve warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Burnt Sugar Cake

Q: What is burnt sugar cake?

Burnt sugar cake is a type of dessert that originated in the United States, characterized by its distinctive caramelized sugar crust on top.

Q: How do I make burnt sugar cake at home?

To make burnt sugar cake at home, start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Then mix together flour, baking powder, salt, granulated sugar, and brown sugar in a large bowl.

Q: What are the key ingredients in burnt sugar cake?

The key ingredients in burnt sugar cake are all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, unsalted butter (softened), eggs (large), vanilla extract (pure), and milk.

Q: Can I use self-raising flour instead of all-purpose flour?

No, self-raising flour will not work as a substitute in this recipe. All-purpose flour provides the right texture and structure for the cake.

Q: How long does it take to bake a burnt sugar cake?

A standard-sized burnt sugar cake typically takes about 45-50 minutes to bake through.

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