Southern Caramel Cake is a timeless dessert that captures the essence of Southern hospitality. This rich, golden cake features a moist, buttery texture and is generously topped with a smooth, velvety caramel frosting. Often served at special occasions and family gatherings, this cake is sure to impress with its sweet, melt-in-your-mouth goodness. The perfect balance of flavor and texture makes it a cherished recipe in the Southern baking tradition. If you’re craving a truly indulgent treat, this Southern Caramel Cake is the way to go.
Ingredients:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup buttermilk, at room temperature
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon water
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set it aside.
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 4-5 minutes.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Start and end with the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined.
- Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- While the cakes are cooling, prepare the caramel frosting. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the brown sugar, butter, and heavy cream. Stir constantly until the mixture comes to a boil.
- Once the mixture boils, reduce the heat and simmer for 5-6 minutes, stirring frequently. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
- Allow the caramel to cool for 10-15 minutes, then whisk in the powdered sugar until the frosting reaches a smooth, spreadable consistency.
- Once the cakes have cooled completely, place the first cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of caramel frosting over the top.
- Repeat with the second layer, adding more frosting, and top with the third layer. Frost the top and sides of the entire cake with the remaining caramel frosting.
- Let the cake sit for about 30 minutes before serving, allowing the frosting to set.
- Slice and enjoy this delicious Southern Caramel Cake, perfect for any celebration or sweet craving.
This Southern Caramel Cake is a dessert that promises to delight with every bite. Its soft, buttery cake layers, combined with the rich and luscious caramel frosting, will undoubtedly become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or indulging in a special treat, this cake offers a comforting, nostalgic flavor that captures the true spirit of Southern baking.