If you’re searching for a show-stopping dessert that wraps you in nostalgic warmth and indulgence, look no further than this Classic Southern Caramel Cake Recipe. It’s a delightful three-layer wonder where tender vanilla cake meets rich, buttery caramel frosting that tastes like a sweet Southern hug. Each bite melts in your mouth while delivering layers of flavor that are both timeless and utterly addictive. This cake isn’t just dessert; it’s a celebration of classic Southern baking traditions that never fail to impress family and friends alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first joyful step toward making this cake a true Southern masterpiece. Each one is simple but essential, contributing to the cake’s fluffy texture, perfect crumb, and that irresistible caramel flavor that ties it all together.
- Unsalted butter: Using softened butter ensures the cake and frosting have a rich, creamy base without salt overpowering the flavors.
- Granulated sugar: Provides the perfect sweetness and helps create a light, tender crumb in the cake layers.
- Large eggs: Adds structure and moisture, giving your cake that classic Southern lift.
- All-purpose flour: The foundation for a soft but sturdy cake that holds its shape well.
- Baking powder: Acts as the leavening agent to make sure your cake layers rise beautifully.
- Salt: Just a pinch to balance and enhance the sweetness.
- Whole milk: Adds moisture and a delicate richness that’s vital for soft, tender cake layers.
- Vanilla extract: Brings warmth and depth, lifting the cake’s flavor to a new level.
- Light brown sugar: Central to the caramel frosting, adding that deep, molasses flavor you crave.
- Powdered sugar: For smoothing and sweetening the frosting without any grit.
How to Make Classic Southern Caramel Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Layers
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), then grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans to keep the layers from sticking. Cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy — this is key to airiness in your cake. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition to keep the texture smooth. In a separate bowl, whisk the flour, baking powder, and salt, then alternate adding these dry ingredients with the milk to your creamed butter mixture, beginning and ending with the dry. Stir in the vanilla extract last for that aromatic lift. Pour the batter evenly into the pans and bake for 25–30 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean. Let them cool in the pans briefly, and then transfer to wire racks to cool completely before frosting.
Step 2: Make the Caramel Frosting
The frosting is where this Classic Southern Caramel Cake Recipe truly shines. Melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat, then stir in the packed light brown sugar and cook gently for a few minutes, stirring constantly to develop that signature caramel flavor. Slowly add whole milk and bring the mixture just to a gentle boil, then remove from heat and let it cool for about 10 minutes. Once cooled but still warm, gradually beat in powdered sugar and vanilla extract until the frosting is smooth, creamy, and spreadable. This step balances the deep caramel richness with creamy sweetness, making it absolutely irresistible on every layer.
Step 3: Assemble the Cake
Place one cooled cake layer on your serving plate and slather it generously with the caramel frosting. Repeat with the remaining layers, spreading frosting between each, and then finish by covering the entire cake’s top and sides with the luscious caramel frosting. Allow the cake to set so the frosting can firm up slightly – this resting time deepens the flavor and makes slicing a pleasure without any mess.
How to Serve Classic Southern Caramel Cake Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate your cake presentation with simple, tasteful garnishes like a light sprinkle of chopped toasted pecans for a nutty crunch or a delicate dusting of cinnamon to enhance the warm aroma. Fresh berries, such as raspberries or sliced strawberries, add a lovely pop of color and brightness that cuts perfectly through the rich caramel flavor.
Side Dishes
For a balanced dessert experience, serve this cake alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of lightly whipped cream. A cup of strong black coffee or sweet iced tea also pairs beautifully, complementing the moist cake and caramel frosting while rounding out your Southern-inspired dessert plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Try cutting the cake into petite squares for a charming dessert buffet, or serve it on delicate vintage plates for an elegant afternoon tea. You can also drizzle a warm caramel sauce over individual slices for an extra indulgent finish. For a festive touch, add edible gold leaf or caramel shards to impress your guests with style and sophistication.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap leftover cake tightly in plastic wrap and store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or refrigerate for up to five days to keep the caramel frosting fresh and luscious. The flavors actually blossom with a little resting time, so don’t be surprised if it tastes even better the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze your Classic Southern Caramel Cake Recipe by wrapping the fully frosted cake well in plastic wrap and then in foil to prevent freezer burn. Store it in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw the cake overnight in the refrigerator before bringing it to room temperature for serving to preserve that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Reheating
Reheating cake isn’t usually necessary, but if you prefer your slice slightly warm, gently heat a slice in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This will soften the frosting slightly and release those wonderful caramel aromas, making each bite pure bliss.
FAQs
Can I substitute another type of milk in this Classic Southern Caramel Cake Recipe?
Whole milk is recommended for its richness and moist texture, but you can use 2% milk or even buttermilk for a slight tang and tender crumb. Just be aware that non-dairy milk substitutes may alter the taste and texture a bit.
Is this cake suitable for freezing after assembling?
Yes, this Classic Southern Caramel Cake Recipe freezes very well once fully assembled. Just make sure it’s tightly wrapped, and thaw slowly in the refrigerator before serving for best results.
How long does the caramel frosting stay good at room temperature?
Because the frosting contains butter and milk, it’s best enjoyed within two days if kept at room temperature. For longer storage, refrigeration is recommended to maintain freshness and safety.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
To adapt this recipe, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that measures cup-for-cup for regular flour. Keep in mind that texture might be slightly different, but the flavors will still be delicious.
Why is resting time important after assembling this cake?
Letting the cake rest allows the caramel frosting to set and the flavors to meld beautifully. This makes slicing cleaner and improves the overall taste experience, giving you that signature Classic Southern Caramel Cake joy.
Final Thoughts
This Classic Southern Caramel Cake Recipe is a tender, luscious celebration of Southern hospitality in every bite. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, special occasion, or just because, this cake brings a wonderful sense of tradition, comfort, and pure deliciousness. Don’t hesitate to try it yourself — once you experience the buttery caramel flavor balanced with soft, moist cake layers, you’ll know exactly why this recipe has earned a beloved spot on so many dessert tables.
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Classic Southern Caramel Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour (plus cooling time)
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Classic Southern Caramel Cake is a rich, moist layer cake infused with vanilla and frosted with a luscious homemade caramel frosting made from butter, brown sugar, and powdered sugar. This beloved Southern dessert features three tender cake layers topped and filled with a creamy caramel sauce, providing a perfect balance of sweetness and buttery flavor.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) 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 tablespoon vanilla extract
For the Caramel Frosting:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
- 2 cups packed light brown sugar
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Cake Pans: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans to ensure the cakes release easily after baking.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, creating a smooth base for the batter.
- Add Eggs: Incorporate the eggs one at a time into the butter mixture, beating well after each addition to combine fully and add structure.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening and seasoning.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Alternately add the dry ingredients and whole milk to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Stir gently to form a smooth batter without overmixing.
- Add Vanilla Extract: Stir in the vanilla extract to infuse the batter with its classic flavor.
- Divide Batter and Bake: Evenly divide the batter among the prepared cake pans and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, indicating the cakes are fully baked.
- Cool Cakes: Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely, preventing sogginess in the layers.
- Make Caramel Frosting: Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add light brown sugar and cook, stirring constantly, for 2–3 minutes until melted and bubbling gently.
- Add Milk and Boil: Slowly pour in the milk and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Remove from heat and allow it to cool for about 10 minutes to prevent the frosting from being too hot to work with.
- Complete Frosting: Gradually beat in powdered sugar and vanilla extract until the frosting is smooth, creamy, and spreadable.
- Assemble the Cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread with caramel frosting. Repeat with the second and third layers, then cover the top and sides of the entire cake with the remaining frosting.
- Set and Serve: Allow the assembled cake to set so the caramel frosting firms slightly before slicing and serving. The cake tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.
Notes
- If the frosting thickens too quickly, add a splash of milk and reheat slightly to regain a spreadable consistency.
- This cake improves after resting overnight, allowing the caramel to set and deepen in flavor.
