This Are You Kidding Me Cake is an indulgent, irresistible dessert that combines all your favorite flavors into one unforgettable treat. With layers of chocolate cake, caramel, and a dreamy cream cheese frosting, this cake is the ultimate comfort food. It’s perfect for any occasion where you want to impress with a sweet, decadent masterpiece.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you’re a fan of chocolate cake, caramel, and cream cheese frosting, then you’re going to be in love with this cake! It’s rich, moist, and perfectly balanced with the sweetness of caramel and the tanginess of cream cheese. With its layers of flavor, this cake is perfect for birthdays, family gatherings, or whenever you’re in the mood for a seriously satisfying dessert.
Ingredients for Are You Kidding Me Cake
For the Cake:
- 1 box chocolate cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box, usually eggs, oil, and water)
- 1 box instant chocolate pudding mix
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup water
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Caramel Layer:
- 1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream (optional for a smoother texture)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, or line them with parchment paper.
Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, chocolate pudding mix, sour cream, vegetable oil, water, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and well combined.
- Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
- Bake the cakes in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then remove from the pans and place them on a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 4: Prepare the Caramel Layer
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the caramel sauce and sweetened condensed milk. Stir constantly until well mixed and heated through. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Step 5: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and continue to beat until light and fluffy.
- Add the heavy cream (if using) for a smoother frosting consistency.
Step 6: Assemble the Cake
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Using a knife or spoon, poke small holes all over the top of the cake to allow the caramel to soak in.
- Pour about half of the caramel mixture over the top of the cake, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Place the second cake layer on top and repeat the process, poking holes in the second layer and pouring the remaining caramel mixture over it.
Step 7: Frost the Cake
- Once the caramel has soaked into the cakes, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top and sides of the cake.
- Garnish with extra caramel drizzle, chopped nuts, or chocolate shavings if desired.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
- Allow the cake to set for about 30 minutes before serving so the frosting firms up slightly. Slice and serve!
Serving Suggestions
- Perfect for any celebration: Whether it’s a birthday, holiday, or special event, this cake is sure to be the star of the show.
- Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of extra caramel sauce for an even more indulgent treat.
Helpful Tips
- Let the cake cool completely before frosting to prevent the cream cheese frosting from melting.
- If you like your caramel to have a thicker consistency, let it cool slightly more before pouring it over the cake.
- For added texture, sprinkle chopped nuts (like pecans or walnuts) on top of the frosting or in the caramel layer.
Time to Make
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Bake Time: 30-35 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Conclusion
This Are You Kidding Me Cake is the kind of dessert that will make everyone say, “Are you kidding me?” with delight! The moist chocolate cake, rich caramel layer, and creamy frosting combine in a way that’s pure indulgence. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just need a decadent treat, this cake will satisfy all your dessert cravings.