Classic Southern Caramel Cake
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 cup whole milk
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
For the Caramel Frosting:
1 cup unsalted butter
2 cups light brown sugar, packed
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Directions:
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.
Prepare the Cake Batter:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
Mix in the vanilla extract.
Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the flour mixture, mixing just until combined.
Bake the Cakes:
Divide the batter evenly between the three prepared cake pans.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Prepare the Caramel Frosting:
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
Stir in the brown sugar and cook for 2 minutes.
Add the heavy cream and salt, bringing the mixture to a boil.
Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Remove from heat and let it cool for about 10 minutes.
Gradually stir in the sifted powdered sugar until the frosting is smooth.
Stir in the vanilla extract.
Assemble the Cake:
Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a layer of caramel frosting on top.
Add the second cake layer and repeat with another layer of frosting.
Top with the final cake layer.
Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining caramel frosting.
Final Touches:
Allow the cake to sit for about 15-20 minutes before slicing, giving the frosting time to set.
For a more decorative finish, you can drizzle additional caramel over the top or sprinkle with sea salt.
Prep Time: 30 minutes | Cook Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Kcal: Approximately 550 kcal per slice | Servings: 12
