Southern caramel cake is the epitome of comfort food, blending rich, buttery layers with a decadent caramel frosting that’s to die for. This recipe is your ticket to dessert paradise.
Why This Recipe Works
- The combination of buttermilk and baking soda ensures a moist, tender crumb that’s perfectly balanced with the sweetness of the caramel.
- Slow-cooked caramel frosting adds depth and complexity, transforming simple ingredients into a luxurious topping.
- Precise measurements and temperatures guarantee consistent results every time, making this recipe foolproof for bakers of all levels.
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Equipment Needed
- 9-inch round cake pans (2)
- Stand mixer or hand mixer
- Medium saucepan
- Wire cooling rack
- Offset spatula
Instructions
Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. This ensures your cake has a uniform texture without any baking soda lumps.
Cream Butter and Sugar
In the bowl of a stand mixer, cream together 1 cup of softened butter and granulated sugar on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in 1 tsp vanilla extract. The mixture should be smooth and slightly increased in volume.
Alternate Dry and Wet Ingredients
With the mixer on low, add the flour mixture in three parts, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the flour. Mix just until combined after each addition. Overmixing can lead to a tough cake, so stop as soon as you no longer see streaks of flour.
Bake to Perfection
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. 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 transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Make the Caramel Frosting
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine brown sugar, heavy cream, and 1/4 cup butter. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in 1 tsp vanilla extract. Let cool slightly before frosting the cake.
Tips and Tricks
For an even more decadent cake, consider brushing each layer with a simple syrup before frosting. This adds moisture and enhances the caramel flavor. When making the caramel frosting, a candy thermometer can help ensure you reach the perfect consistency without overcooking. Lastly, for a smoother frosting application, use an offset spatula dipped in hot water.
Recipe Variations
- Add a cup of toasted pecans to the batter for a nutty crunch.
- Substitute half the buttermilk with sour cream for an even richer cake.
- Layer with sliced bananas and the caramel frosting for a Southern twist on banana caramel cake.
- Use dark brown sugar instead of light for a deeper caramel flavor.
- Top with a sprinkle of sea salt for a sweet and salty finish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! The cake layers can be baked, cooled, and wrapped tightly in plastic wrap a day in advance. The caramel frosting can also be made ahead and gently reheated before use. This makes assembly a breeze when you’re ready to serve.
Why did my caramel frosting crystallize?
Crystallization can occur if the sugar isn’t fully dissolved before boiling or if the mixture is stirred too vigorously after reaching the boiling point. To prevent this, ensure all sugar is dissolved on low heat before boiling and avoid stirring once the mixture starts to boil.
Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?
While homemade caramel frosting is recommended for its flavor and texture, in a pinch, you can thin store-bought caramel sauce with a little heavy cream to achieve a spreadable consistency. However, the taste and texture won’t be quite the same as the homemade version.
Summary
This Southern caramel cake is a labor of love that pays off with every bite. Moist layers, rich caramel frosting, and endless variations make it a standout dessert for any occasion.