1-First Step: Prepare the Cake Base
Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9-inch springform pan or line a cupcake tin for brulee cupcakes. In a bowl, whisk 1 cup all-purpose flour and 1 tsp baking powder. Beat 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 2 eggs, 1/4 cup melted butter, and 1/4 cup brewed espresso until smooth, about 2 minutes. Fold in dry ingredients gently. Pour into pan and bake 25 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely. This base absorbs syrup later for latte cake moisture.

2-Second Step: Make the Caramel Sauce
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt 1 cup granulated sugar, stirring until it turns amber, 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat, whisk in 1/2 cup heavy cream slowly (it bubbles), then 2 tbsp butter and pinch of salt. Stir until smooth. Cool slightly. Reserve half for syrup (mix with 2 tbsp espresso) and half for drizzling. This homemade caramel elevates the caramel brulee latte flavor.

3-Third Step: Cook the Custard Filling
Heat 2 cups heavy cream with 1 tsp espresso powder until steaming. Whisk 1/2 cup sugar and 4 egg yolks in a bowl. Temper by adding hot cream slowly while whisking. Return to low heat, stir constantly until thickened (coats spoon, 170°F), 8-10 minutes. Stir in 1 tsp vanilla. Strain and cool. This creme brulee layer mimics the drink’s creaminess.

4-Fourth Step: Assemble the Layers
Cut cooled cake into two layers if desired, or crumble for no-bake style. Place bottom in springform pan. Brush with coffee-caramel syrup. Pour half custard over, add top cake layer if using, more syrup, then remaining custard. Drizzle extra caramel. Cover and chill 4 hours or overnight for flavors to meld.

5-Fifth Step: Create the Brulee Topping
Sprinkle 1/4 cup granulated sugar evenly over chilled custard top. Use a kitchen torch, holding 4-6 inches away, move in circles until amber and bubbly, 20-30 seconds. Cool 1-2 minutes to harden. No torch? Broil on high 1-2 minutes, watching closely.

6-Final Step: Serve and Enjoy
Run a knife around edges, release from pan. Slice into 8-10 pieces. Garnish with sea salt flakes or whipped cream. Serve chilled for best crunch. Pairs great with coffee. Total time: 2 hours active + 4 hours chill. Store as noted below.