Southern caramel cake is a beloved dessert known for its rich caramel flavor and moist, tender crumb. Here’s a classic recipe to make this delicious cake:
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the caramel frosting:
– 1 cup unsalted butter
– 2 cups packed light brown sugar
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 3-4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans and set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until well combined.
6. Stir in the vanilla extract until incorporated.
7. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops with a spatula.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
9. Remove the cakes from the oven and allow them to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
10. While the cakes are cooling, prepare the caramel frosting. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the brown sugar and milk, and bring the mixture to a boil.
11. Reduce the heat to low and simmer the mixture for 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
12. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the mixture cool for 5 minutes.
13. Gradually whisk in the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, until the frosting reaches your desired consistency.
14. Stir in the vanilla extract until smooth.
15. Once the cakes have cooled completely, place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a layer of caramel frosting over the top. Repeat with the remaining cake layers, stacking them on top of each other.
16. Use the remaining caramel frosting to frost the top and sides of the cake.
17. Slice and serve the caramel cake, and enjoy its delicious Southern flavor!
This classic Southern caramel cake is sure to impress with its rich caramel flavor and moist, tender texture. It’s perfect for special occasions or anytime you’re craving a decadent dessert. Enjoy!