Homemade Caramel Cake: A Classic Southern Delight

This irresistible homemade caramel cake is the epitome of comfort and sweetness, a true Southern favorite that blends buttery layers of soft vanilla cake with a rich, creamy caramel frosting. Each bite is a heavenly combination of soft, fluffy cake and velvety caramel goodness. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or indulging in a sweet craving, this caramel cake is sure to please and impress!

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup whole milk
• 4 large eggs
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 ½ tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt

For the Caramel Frosting:

• 1 ½ cups packed brown sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 cups powdered sugar (sifted)

Instructions:

For the Cake:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar together using a hand mixer or stand mixer until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
6. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans and smooth the tops with a spatula.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

For the Caramel Frosting:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the brown sugar, butter, and heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly.
2. Once boiling, reduce heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until the mixture thickens slightly and becomes a deep caramel color.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Let the caramel cool for about 10 minutes before proceeding.
4. Gradually whisk in the sifted powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.
5. If the frosting becomes too thick, you can add a tablespoon of cream to thin it out for spreading consistency.

Assembly:

1. Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous amount of caramel frosting on top.
2. Add the second cake layer and cover the top and sides with the remaining frosting, ensuring an even, smooth finish.
3. Let the cake set for at least 30 minutes before slicing to allow the frosting to firm up.
4. Slice and serve with your favorite beverage and enjoy the indulgent caramel flavor!