This rich and moist caramel cake is a delightful treat that combines a buttery vanilla cake with a luscious caramel frosting. Perfect for special occasions or just a sweet indulgence, this cake is sure to impress your friends and family with its stunning flavor and beautiful presentation.
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3 large eggs
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp salt
For the Caramel Frosting:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup water
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- Make the Cake Batter:
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined.
- Bake the Cakes:
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare the Caramel Frosting:
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the sugar and water. Stir gently until the sugar dissolves.
- Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a boil without stirring. Cook until it turns a golden amber color (about 8-10 minutes).
- Remove from heat and carefully whisk in the heavy cream (it will bubble up), then stir in the butter, vanilla, and salt until smooth. Let it cool slightly.
- Assemble the Cake:
- Place one layer of cake on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of caramel frosting on top.
- Add the second layer of cake and frost the top and sides with the remaining caramel frosting.
- Serve and Enjoy: Let the cake sit for a bit to allow the frosting to set before slicing. Enjoy your delicious caramel cake!