There’s nothing quite like a Southern Caramel Cake to bring a touch of sweetness and nostalgia to your table. This classic dessert is a staple in Southern kitchens, known for its tender, buttery layers and rich, gooey caramel frosting that’s both indulgent and irresistible. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a slice of comfort, this cake is sure to delight.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the recipe for this iconic Southern treat, share tips for perfecting the caramel frosting, and explore why this cake is a must-try for any dessert lover. Let’s get baking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and Decadent: The combination of moist cake and luscious caramel frosting is pure indulgence.
- Southern Tradition: This cake is a beloved classic in Southern cuisine, perfect for family gatherings and holidays.
- Homemade Goodness: Made from scratch with simple ingredients, this cake is a labor of love that’s worth every bite.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday, potluck, or Sunday dinner, this cake is always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients for Southern Caramel Cake
For the Cake:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Caramel Frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 2 cups packed light brown sugar
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 cups powdered sugar (sifted)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cake
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes).
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined—do not overmix.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops with a spatula.
- 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 turn them out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 2: Make the Caramel Frosting
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the brown sugar and heavy cream, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil and cook for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually whisk in the powdered sugar until the frosting is smooth and thick. If it becomes too thick, add a splash of cream to reach your desired consistency.
Step 3: Assemble the Cake
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous amount of caramel frosting on top.
- Place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining caramel frosting.
- For a decorative touch, drizzle extra caramel sauce over the top or sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt.
Tips for the Perfect Southern Caramel Cake
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature for a smoother batter and even baking.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing can lead to a dense cake. Mix until just combined.
- Cook the Caramel Carefully: Keep an eye on the caramel frosting as it cooks to prevent burning. Stir constantly for even heating.
- Let the Cake Cool Completely: Frosting a warm cake can cause the frosting to melt and slide off. Be patient!
Serving Suggestions
- With Coffee or Tea: A slice of this cake pairs perfectly with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a cozy treat.
- Add a Scoop of Ice Cream: Serve with vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent dessert.
- Garnish with Nuts: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top for added texture and flavor.
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This recipe is a great fit for AdSense optimization because:
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Final Thoughts
Southern Caramel Cake is more than just a dessert—it’s a celebration of tradition, flavor, and homemade goodness. With its tender crumb and rich caramel frosting, this cake is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Whether you’re baking it for a special occasion or just because, it’s guaranteed to bring smiles to everyone’s faces.
So, preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a slice of Southern heaven. Don’t forget to share your creations on social media and let us know how it turned out in the comments below. Happy baking!
