Delight in the sweet traditions of the American South with our “Southern Caramel Cake” recipe. This iconic dessert features layers of moist, tender cake paired with a rich and indulgent caramel frosting. Perfect for family gatherings, special occasions, or anytime you crave a slice of Southern sweetness, this homemade caramel cake is sure to become a cherished classic in your repertoire. Join us on a journey to capture the essence of Southern hospitality with this delectable recipe.
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 1/4 cups buttermilk
For the Caramel Frosting:
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions :
For the Cake:
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. Prepare Dry Ingredients:
- In a medium mixing bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set this dry mixture aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar:
- In a separate large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla:
- Beat in the three large eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated. Mix in the pure vanilla extract.
5. Alternate Wet and Dry Ingredients:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. Bake:
- Divide the cake batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Cool:
- Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
For the Caramel Frosting:
1. Combine Ingredients:
- In a saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, unsalted butter, whole milk, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.
2. Cook and Stir:
- Continue to cook and stir the caramel mixture for about 5-7 minutes or until it thickens and reaches a soft-ball stage (approximately 235°F or 118°C on a candy thermometer).
3. Remove from Heat and Add Vanilla:
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the pure vanilla extract.
4. Frost the Cake:
- Allow the caramel frosting to cool slightly, then use it to frost the cooled cake layers. You can frost between the layers and over the top and sides of the cake.
5. Slice and Enjoy:
- Slice your Southern Caramel Cake and relish a sweet slice of Southern tradition. Share with loved ones and savor the rich caramel frosting paired with moist, tender cake layers.
Southern Caramel Cake is a delectable slice of Southern tradition, with layers of moist, tender cake paired with a rich and decadent caramel frosting. This homemade caramel cake is bound to become a cherished classic in your culinary repertoire, whether for special occasions or a sweet slice of Southern hospitality at any time.
With this recipe, you can capture the essence of Southern sweetness and share the delicious taste of the South with friends and family. The rich caramel frosting and tender cake layers make it a classic dessert that embodies Southern hospitality and comfort.