Description
Classic Southern Caramel Cake is a rich, moist layer cake featuring tender vanilla-flavored layers and a luscious homemade caramel frosting. This traditional dessert is perfect for gatherings, offering a perfect balance of buttery cake and sweet caramel notes that deepen after resting.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Cake:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup whole milk, room temperature
For the Caramel Frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 2 cups packed light brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Make the Cake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper to ensure easy removal. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, which should take about 3 to 4 minutes. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, then mix in the vanilla extract. Alternately add the dry ingredients and the milk to the wet mixture in three parts, starting and ending with the flour mixture. Mix just until combined to avoid overmixing. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto wire racks to cool completely.
- Make the Caramel Frosting: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the light brown sugar and salt, stirring constantly for 2 to 3 minutes until the sugar starts to dissolve. Gradually stir in the milk and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly. Transfer the caramel mixture to a large bowl and beat in the sifted powdered sugar and vanilla extract until the frosting is smooth and fluffy. Adjust the consistency by adding a splash of milk if too thick, or more powdered sugar if too thin.
- Assemble the Cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread with a layer of caramel frosting. Repeat with the second and third layers. Finish by frosting the top and sides evenly. Allow the frosting to set for 20 to 30 minutes before slicing to serve.
Notes
- This cake tastes even better after sitting for a day, as the caramel flavors deepen beautifully.
- Store the cake covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for longer storage.
- Before serving, bring the cake to room temperature for the best texture and flavor.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American
