Southern Caramel Cake

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This Southern Caramel Cake is a classic dessert featuring tender, buttery layers of cake coated with a rich, creamy caramel frosting. Perfect for any occasion, this cake is a true showstopper with its decadent flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 ½ cups granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup buttermilk

For the Caramel Frosting:

  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cake

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.
  2. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
  4. Mix in the vanilla extract. Gradually add the flour mixture, alternating with the buttermilk, starting and ending with the flour. Mix until just combined.
  5. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans. Bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  6. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 2: Make the Caramel Frosting

  1. In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine sugar, heavy cream, and butter. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar dissolves.
  2. Bring the mixture to a boil and continue cooking until it reaches a golden caramel color, about 8–10 minutes.
  3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Let it cool slightly before using.

Step 3: Assemble the Cake

  1. Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of caramel frosting on top.
  2. Repeat with the remaining layers, frosting the sides and top of the cake.
  3. Let the cake sit for at least 30 minutes to set the frosting before serving.

Enjoy this rich and indulgent Southern classic!

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