Caramel Cream Layer Cake with Whipped Cream and Caramel Grapes

Looking for the perfect treat to impress your guests at your next summer gathering? This Caramel Cream Layer Cake with Whipped Cream and Caramel Grapes is a showstopper that’s both indulgent and refreshing. With its light sponge layers, velvety caramel cream, and a dazzling topping of caramel-drenched grapes, this cake stands out among all summer dessert for its stunning presentation and unforgettable taste.

Why This Cake is Perfect for Summer

During warmer months, we crave desserts that feel luxurious without being too heavy. The combination of airy cake layers, softly whipped cream, and juicy grapes coated in golden caramel creates a balance of richness and freshness. It’s ideal for summer celebrations like garden parties, birthdays, picnics, or even casual weekends when you just want something sweet and memorable.

Ingredients

Cake Layers:

• 2 ½ cups (300 g) all-purpose flour

• 2 ½ tsp baking powder

• ½ tsp baking soda

• ½ tsp salt

• ¾ cup (170 g) unsalted butter, softened

• 1 ½ cups (300 g) granulated sugar

• 4 large eggs

• 1 tbsp vanilla extract

• 1 cup (240 ml) buttermilk

For the Caramel Cream:

• ¾ cup (180 ml) heavy cream

• 1/3 cup (65 g) granulated sugar

• 2 tbsp water

• 3 tbsp unsalted butter

• ½ tsp sea salt

• ½ cup (120 ml) cold heavy cream (for folding in after cooling)

Whipped Cream:

• 1 ½ cups (360 ml) heavy whipping cream

• ¼ cup (30 g) powdered sugar

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Caramel Grapes:

• 2 cups seedless green or red grapes, washed and dried

• ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar

• 2 tbsp water

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

Required Tools

• 3 8-inch cake pans

• Electric mixer or stand mixer

• Mixing bowls

• Saucepan

• Cooling racks

• Cake turntable (optional but helpful)

• Offset spatula or knife for frosting

• Candy thermometer (optional for caramel)

Step-by-Step Preparation

1: Make the Cake Layers

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line three 8-inch cake pans with parchment paper.

2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

3. In another large bowl, beat the butter and sugar until fluffy (about 3-4 minutes).

4. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla.

5. Alternately add the dry ingredients and buttermilk, starting and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined.

6. Divide the batter evenly between the pans and smooth the tops.

7. Bake for 22–25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Let cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely. Summer Dessert

2: Prepare the Caramel Cream

1. In a small saucepan, combine sugar and water. Heat over medium without stirring until it becomes a golden amber.

2. Carefully add the heavy cream (it will bubble). Stir in butter and salt until smooth.

3. Let the caramel cool completely, then fold in the extra ½ cup of cold heavy cream.

4. Chill in the fridge for 30 minutes before whipping it lightly to a spreadable consistency.

3: Whip the Cream

1. In a chilled bowl, beat the cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until stiff peaks form.

2. Keep refrigerated until ready to assemble.

4: Make the Caramel Grapes

1. In a clean saucepan, heat sugar, water, and lemon juice over medium heat until golden brown.

2. Remove from heat and quickly dip each grape using a skewer or fork, letting excess caramel drip off.

3. Place grapes on parchment paper to cool and harden.

Assembly Instructions

1. Place the first cake layer on a serving plate or cake board.

2. Spread a layer of caramel cream over the top, followed by a layer of whipped cream.

3. Repeat with the second and third layers.

4. Frost the outside of the cake with the remaining whipped cream and use caramel cream for decorative swirls or piping.

5. Garnish the top with caramel-dipped grapes, arranging them in a cluster for a stunning effect.

6. Chill the cake for at least 1 hour before serving for cleaner slices.

Tips for the Perfect Summer Dessert

• Use cold ingredients for whipping to maintain stability in hot weather.

• Prep caramel grapes last to ensure they maintain their glossy, crisp finish.

• Try different fruits like berries or figs for a twist.

• Add crushed nuts or a caramel drizzle on top for extra texture.

• For a shortcut, you can use store-bought sponge layers or caramel sauce, though homemade always tastes best.

Nutritional Information (Per Slice, approx.)

• Calories: 420 kcal

• Fat: 28 g

• Carbohydrates: 40 g

• Sugar: 28 g

• Protein: 5 g

Note: These values are estimates and may vary depending on portion size and ingredients used.

Conclusion

This Caramel Cream Layer Cake with Whipped Cream and Caramel Grapes is not just another dessert—it’s a celebration of summer flavors and textures. Perfectly balancing lightness and decadence, it’s ideal for impressing family and friends at any warm-weather event. Among the many summer desserts you can try, this one is sure to be a standout centerpiece. Make it once, and it just might become a seasonal tradition.

Would you like Pinterest-optimized title, description, and hashtags for this cake as well?