Nigella Lawson’s Salted Caramel Cake Recipe

Nigella Lawson’s Salted Caramel Cake is a lush, multi-layered cake that perfectly balances the richness of caramel with a subtle hint of salt-a culinary juxtaposition that elevates each bite. This cake is constructed with moist, brown sugar-infused sponge layers that hold up a velvety salted caramel icing, topped with even more gooey caramel sauce for dramatic flair.

It’s indulgent without being cloying, deeply flavorful, and elegantly rustic. A celebration cake that’s equal parts comfort and sophistication, it bears Nigella’s signature: unfussy luxury.

Nigella Lawson’s Salted Caramel Cake Recipe

Ingredients Needed

The magic of this cake comes from a careful mix of pantry staples and a few indulgent extras. Here’s a detailed list:

For the Cake:

• 225g soft unsalted butter (plus extra for greasing)
• 150g soft light brown sugar
• 100g caster sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 200g plain flour
• 1½ tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp bicarbonate of soda
• Pinch of salt
• 100ml plain yogurt or sour cream

For the Salted Caramel Icing:

• 100g unsalted butter
• 75g soft light brown sugar
• ½ tsp sea salt (flakes work best)
• 50ml double cream
• 300g icing sugar (sifted)

Optional Toppings:

• A drizzle of extra caramel sauce
• Sea salt flakes for garnish
• Chopped pecans or brittle for texture

Equipment Needed

You won’t need a professional kitchen to create this masterpiece, but a few key tools make the process smoother:

• Two 20cm (8-inch) round cake tins
• Baking parchment
• Mixing bowls (at least two)
• Electric hand mixer or stand mixer
• Sieve
• Spatula
• Wire cooling racks
• Saucepan (for making the caramel icing)
• Offset palette knife (for spreading the icing evenly)

Step-by-Step Guide To Make Nigella Lawson’s Salted Caramel Cake

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan)/350°F. Butter and line your cake tins.
2. Cream the butter and both sugars until pale, fluffy, and irresistible.
3. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla.
4. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, bicarb, and salt.
5. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the yogurt, mixing gently to avoid overbeating.
6. Divide the batter evenly between the tins and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden, springy, and a skewer comes out clean.
7. Cool in tins for 10 minutes, then turn onto racks to cool completely.

For the Icing:

1. Melt the butter, sugar, and salt together over low heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
2. Add the cream, then bring to a boil for a minute-stir constantly to avoid burning.
3. Remove from heat and cool for 10 minutes. Then gradually beat in the sifted icing sugar until smooth and fluffy.

To Assemble:

• Spread half the icing over one cooled sponge, sandwich with the second sponge, and use the remaining icing on top.
• Finish with a drizzle of extra caramel and a sprinkle of salt or chopped nuts for drama and crunch.

Mastering The Recipe: Tips And Tricks

• Room temperature ingredients are key. Cold butter or eggs can cause curdling and dense cake.
• Don’t skip the yogurt-it brings moisture and slight tang, balancing the sweetness.
• When making the icing, don’t rush the caramel. Let the sugar fully dissolve before adding cream.
• If your caramel icing gets too stiff, loosen it with a tablespoon of warm cream.
• For a showpiece look, use a rotating cake stand and an offset spatula to get smooth layers.

Nigella Lawson’s Salted Caramel Cake is a tribute to indulgence-elegant yet comforting, rich but perfectly balanced. Whether you’re baking for a birthday, dinner party, or just a well-deserved treat, this cake never fails to impress. Each forkful is a celebration of texture, flavor, and Nigella’s gift for turning classic comfort into culinary poetry.

So, gather your ingredients, cue up some soft jazz, and let your kitchen fill with the golden scent of caramel dreams.

Simple Twists On Nigella Lawson’s Salted Caramel Cake Recipe

Nigella Lawson’s Salted Caramel Cake is already an indulgent delight, but sometimes you might want to add your personal touch or try something a little different. Below are some simple twists on this decadent treat that can elevate its flavor or make it even more unique.

1. Infuse The Cake With Coffee

If you’re a fan of the classic caramel and coffee pairing, why not introduce a hint of espresso into the cake batter?

Simply add a tablespoon of instant coffee or espresso powder to the dry ingredients before mixing. This will not only deepen the cake’s flavor but also give it a subtle mocha twist that pairs wonderfully with the sweet-salty richness of the caramel.

2. Swap The Buttercream For Cream Cheese Frosting

For a tangy contrast that balances out the sweetness of the salted caramel, try making a cream cheese frosting instead of the usual buttercream. The slight tartness of cream cheese will bring a sophisticated complexity to the cake. You could even add a touch of vanilla extract or a hint of citrus zest to enhance the flavors.

3. Add Crunch With Crushed Nuts

To give the cake a crunchy texture that contrasts with its soft, buttery crumb, add some crushed toasted nuts. Walnuts or pecans work wonderfully, as their earthy, roasted flavors complement the caramel. You could even sprinkle some crushed nuts on top of the frosting for an extra layer of texture, creating a stunning presentation.

4. Use Dark Chocolate Ganache Instead Of Caramel

For those who prefer a richer, less sweet option, consider swapping the salted caramel frosting with a smooth dark chocolate ganache. Melted dark chocolate with a touch of cream creates a glossy, indulgent finish that works surprisingly well with the moist cake. You can still sprinkle a bit of sea salt on top to tie in that salty-sweet contrast.

5. Add A Fruit Layer

For a refreshing and slightly tangy contrast to the rich cake, consider adding a layer of fresh fruit like raspberries, strawberries, or even thin slices of poached pears between the layers of cake. The fruit will cut through the sweetness of the caramel and provide a delightful burst of freshness in every bite.

Each of these twists allows you to keep the soul of Nigella’s salted caramel cake while giving it your own signature flavor. Whether you’re looking for a richer dessert, a fruitier version, or something to balance out the sweetness, these tweaks are sure to add a delightful surprise to your baking repertoire.

How To Properly Store Leftovers

One of the best things about Nigella Lawson’s Salted Caramel Cake is how it remains wonderfully moist and flavorful even the next day. But proper storage is key to preserving its deliciousness.

1. Cool The Cake Completely

Before storing your leftover cake, ensure it has cooled to room temperature. Storing a warm cake in a container can trap steam, making the cake soggy. Let it rest for at least an hour or two before storing it.

2. Use An Airtight Container

Once the cake has cooled, place it in an airtight container. This will help lock in moisture and prevent the cake from drying out. If you don’t have a large enough container, wrap the cake in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, to ensure it’s fully sealed.

3. Refrigerate For Longer Shelf Life

Because of the salted caramel and frosting, this cake is best kept in the fridge, especially if it contains dairy-based frosting. Refrigerating helps preserve its freshness for 3-4 days. Be sure to remove the cake from the fridge about 20 minutes before serving so it can come back to room temperature, making it more enjoyable to eat.

4. Freeze For Long-Term Storage

If you have an abundance of cake and won’t be able to eat it all within a few days, freezing is a great option. Slice the cake into individual pieces and wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap.

Afterward, place the slices in a freezer-safe bag or container. The cake can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, allow it to defrost in the fridge or at room temperature.

5. Storing Leftover Frosting

If you have leftover salted caramel frosting, you can store it separately in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. If it firms up too much in the fridge, let it come to room temperature and give it a quick stir before using it again.

With these tips, you can ensure that your leftover Salted Caramel Cake stays just as delicious as the first time you enjoyed it!

What To Eat With Nigella Lawson’s Salted Caramel Cake?

While Nigella Lawson’s Salted Caramel Cake is a treat in itself, pairing it with the right accompaniments can take the experience to a whole new level. Here are some delightful options to enjoy alongside or with the cake.

1. A Cup Of Coffee

Coffee and cake is a timeless pairing. The rich, bold flavors of coffee complement the sweet and salty elements of the cake perfectly. A strong espresso or a cappuccino would work wonders, but you could also go for a lighter brew, such as a latte or cold brew, for a smoother contrast to the rich cake.

2. A Scoop Of Vanilla Ice Cream

Vanilla ice cream, with its creamy sweetness and subtle vanilla flavor, is a fantastic complement to the richness of the salted caramel cake. The cold ice cream contrasts beautifully with the warm, slightly salty caramel frosting, creating a refreshing and indulgent treat in every bite.

3. Fresh Berries

Fresh, juicy berries like raspberries, blackberries, or strawberries provide a tart and vibrant contrast to the sweetness of the cake. Their lightness balances out the heaviness of the cake, offering a fresh, fruity element that cleanses your palate between bites. A handful of mixed berries on the side also adds a pop of color to your dessert plate.

4. Whipped Cream With A Dash Of Cinnamon

For those who love a bit of spice, a dollop of freshly whipped cream with a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg is a luxurious topping for your slice of cake. The smooth, airy texture of the whipped cream enhances the cake’s richness, and the hint of spice adds depth.

5. A Glass Of Dessert Wine

Pairing dessert with a glass of dessert wine can be an elegant way to enjoy Nigella’s Salted Caramel Cake. A sweet wine like Sauternes, Moscato d’Asti, or a rich Port can enhance the cake’s caramel flavors, while their natural sweetness complements the salted caramel and adds a luxurious touch to your dining experience.

Whether you’re enjoying it on its own or with one of these delightful pairings, Nigella’s Salted Caramel Cake is a versatile dessert that can be dressed up with a variety of accompaniments to suit any occasion.

Conclusion

Nigella Lawson’s Salted Caramel Cake is more than just a dessert; it’s an experience that delights the senses and satisfies the sweet tooth in the most decadent way. With its tender, buttery crumb, luscious salted caramel frosting, and the balance of sweet and salty flavors, this cake has earned its place as a beloved treat. By adding simple twists, such as infusing it with coffee or adding a fruit layer, you can personalize the recipe to suit your tastes or impress your guests.

Proper storage ensures that any leftovers are just as enjoyable the next day, and with a few easy tips, you can preserve the cake’s flavor and texture for up to several days or even months if you freeze it. Pairing the cake with a hot cup of coffee, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or fresh fruit can elevate the experience even further, making it the perfect dessert for any occasion.

Whether you’re baking it for a special celebration or just to indulge in a little luxury, Nigella’s Salted Caramel Cake is bound to be a showstopper that you and your loved ones will savor every bite of.

FAQs

What Ingredients Are Needed For Nigella Lawson’s Salted Caramel Cake?

To make Nigella Lawson’s salted caramel cake, you will need the following ingredients: 250g unsalted butter, 200g caster sugar, 4 large eggs, 200g self-raising flour, 1 tsp baking powder, 1 tsp vanilla extract, 250ml whole milk, and 200g dark brown sugar. For the salted caramel sauce, you will need 100g unsalted butter, 200g dark brown sugar, 200ml double cream, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and 1 tsp sea salt.

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

To make the salted caramel sauce, melt the butter and dark brown sugar in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar has dissolved. Add the double cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Once thickened, remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and sea salt. Let it cool before pouring over the cake.

Can I Substitute The Salted Caramel Sauce With A Store-bought Version?

While you can substitute the homemade salted caramel sauce with a store-bought version, Nigella Lawson’s recipe recommends making the sauce from scratch to ensure the best flavor. The homemade sauce is rich, creamy, and perfectly balanced with the salt, complementing the cake’s sweetness. However, if you’re short on time, a high-quality store-bought salted caramel sauce can be a convenient alternative.