This classic Southern Caramel Cake is a decadent treat with layers of moist cake, a rich caramel sauce, and a creamy pecan frosting.
Ingredients:
- For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup hot water
- For the Caramel Sauce:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- For the Pecan Frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped pecans
Instructions:
1. Make the Cake: * Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. * In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. * In a separate bowl, whisk together buttermilk, oil, and vanilla extract. * Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. * Stir in the hot water until fully incorporated. * Pour batter evenly into the prepared pans. * 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 before inverting them onto wire racks to cool completely.
2. Make the Caramel Sauce: * In a saucepan over medium heat, combine sugar and water. * Cook, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture turns a golden brown color. * Remove from heat and carefully stir in butter and heavy cream. * Be cautious as the mixture will bubble vigorously. * Let the caramel sauce cool slightly before using.
3. Make the Pecan Frosting: * In a large bowl, cream together butter until light and fluffy. * Gradually add powdered sugar, beating on low speed until combined. * Beat in heavy cream and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. * Stir in chopped pecans.
4. Assemble the Cake: * Place one cake layer on a serving plate. * Drizzle generously with caramel sauce. * Top with the second cake layer. * Frost the entire cake with pecan frosting. * Drizzle with additional caramel sauce, if desired.
Tips & Variations:
- For extra richness, add a layer of caramel between the cake layers.
- Use toasted pecans for a richer flavor.
- Decorate with additional pecans and a drizzle of caramel sauce.
- Store the cake covered at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Enjoy your delicious Southern Caramel Cake!