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Southern Caramel Cake Delight Irresistible Homemade Recipe


  • Author: Nyla Recipes
  • Total Time: 33 minute

Description

Indulge in Southern Caramel Cake Delight Our homemade recipe delivers irresistible flavor Learn our secret for this classic dessert today


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  • Preparing the Pans: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans. This will prevent the cake from sticking and ensure easy removal. I sometimes like to line the bottom with parchment paper for extra insurance.
  • Mixing the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures that the baking powder is evenly distributed, resulting in a light and airy cake.
  • Creaming Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This is a crucial step for creating a tender cake. Use an electric mixer for best results, and scrape down the sides of the bowl occasionally.
  • Adding Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. Make sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.
  • Combining Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a tough cake.
  • Baking the Layers: Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before inverting them onto a wire rack to cool completely.
  • Melting the Sugar: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, melt the sugar over medium heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon. The sugar will initially clump up, but it will eventually melt into a smooth, amber-colored liquid. Be patient and keep stirring to prevent burning.
  • Adding Butter and Cream: Once the sugar is completely melted and golden brown, add the butter and heavy cream. Be careful, as the mixture will bubble up vigorously. Continue to stir until the butter is melted and the mixture is smooth.
  • Simmering to Perfection: Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly. Remove from heat and stir in the salt and vanilla extract. Let the frosting cool slightly before using. If you want a richer Southern Caramel Cake Delight, add a little more butter.
  • Leveling the Cake Layers: Once the cake layers are completely cool, use a serrated knife to trim the tops, if necessary, to create even layers. This will ensure that the cake is stable and visually appealing.
  • Frosting the Cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a generous amount of caramel frosting over the top. Repeat with the remaining layers, frosting the top and sides of the cake.
  • Achieving the Perfect Finish: For a smooth finish, use an offset spatula to frost the cake. You can also create a rustic look by swirling the frosting with the spatula. Get creative and have fun with it!

Notes

For a smoother finish, use an offset spatula to frost the cake. You can also create a rustic look by swirling the frosting with the spatula. Get creative and have fun with it!
Adding Nuts: For an extra layer of flavor and texture, you can add chopped pecans or walnuts to the caramel frosting. Sprinkle them on top of each layer as you assemble the cake.
Bourbon Caramel Cake: For a boozy twist, add a tablespoon of bourbon to the caramel frosting. It will add a warm, rich flavor that complements the caramel perfectly.
Salted Caramel Cake: If you’re a fan of sweet and salty, increase the amount of salt in the caramel frosting to 1 teaspoon. The salt will enhance the sweetness of the caramel and create a more complex flavor profile.
Mini Caramel Cakes: Want individual servings? Bake the batter in cupcake tins and frost each cupcake with caramel frosting. They’re perfect for parties or a simple weeknight treat.

  • Cooling: Cooling time for cake layers and frosting
  • Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Southern

Keywords: Southern Caramel Cake, Caramel Cake, Cake, Dessert