Name: Southern Caramel Cake
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 3 cups cake flour ((or 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour + 3/4 cup cornstarch)); 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter ((softened)); 2 large eggs; 1 large egg white; 1 2/3 cups buttermilk; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 4 cups granulated sugar; 2 cups buttermilk; 2 cups unsalted butter ((softened)); 2 teaspoons baking soda; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

There’s something truly special about a Southern Caramel Cake. With its rich, buttery flavor and luscious caramel frosting, this cake is a showstopper at any gathering. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a family reunion, or simply indulging in a sweet treat, this cake brings warmth and nostalgia to the table. The combination of soft, fluffy layers paired with that decadent caramel is simply irresistible. Let’s dive into this classic recipe that will have your family and friends asking for seconds!

Why It Works Every Time

The beauty of Southern Caramel Cake lies in its simplicity and the quality of its ingredients. Using 3 cups of cake flour (or a combination of all-purpose flour and cornstarch) ensures that the cake has a tender crumb. The buttermilk adds moisture and a slight tang, elevating the overall flavor profile. The caramel frosting, made with real butter and sugar, creates a rich topping that perfectly complements the cake layers. This cake is foolproof, making it a reliable recipe for both novice and experienced bakers.

Shopping List

3 cups cake flour (or 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour + 3/4 cup cornstarch)
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (1 stick)
2 large eggs + 1 egg white
1 2/3 cups buttermilk
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
4 cups granulated sugar (for frosting)
2 cups buttermilk (for frosting)
2 cups unsalted butter (4 sticks, for frosting)
2 teaspoons baking soda (for frosting)
1 teaspoon salt (for frosting)
2 teaspoons vanilla extract (for frosting)

Toolbox for This Recipe

Mixing bowls – for combining ingredients.
Electric mixer – for whipping the batter and frosting.
Measuring cups and spoons – precision is key in baking.
9-inch round cake pans – for baking the cake layers.
Cooling rack – to cool the cakes before frosting.
Spatula – for spreading frosting evenly.

Make Southern Caramel Cake: A Simple Method

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare your 9-inch round cake pans by greasing them with butter and dusting them with flour to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cake flour (or all-purpose flour and cornstarch), baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures that all the leavening agents are evenly distributed throughout the flour.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In another bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar with an electric mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 3-5 minutes.

Step 4: Add the Eggs and Buttermilk

Add in the eggs and egg white, mixing until well combined. Then, gradually add the buttermilk and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.

Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients

Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine.

Step 6: Bake the Cake Layers

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once baked, allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.

Step 7: Prepare the Caramel Frosting

In a large saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, buttermilk, unsalted butter, baking soda, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently until the mixture comes to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the mixture thickens slightly.

Step 8: Add Vanilla and Cool

Remove the frosting from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Allow the frosting to cool for about 30 minutes, or until it reaches a spreadable consistency.

Step 9: Frost the Cake

Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of caramel frosting on top, then place the second layer on top and frost the entire cake with the remaining caramel frosting.

Substitutions by Category

Flour: Use gluten-free all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version.
Butter: Coconut oil or vegan butter can be used for a dairy-free option.
Buttermilk: Mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar and let it sit for 5 minutes as a substitute.
Sugar: Brown sugar can be used for a deeper caramel flavor in the frosting.

Learn from These Mistakes

Not properly measuring flour can lead to dry or dense cake. Always spoon the flour into the measuring cup and level it off with a knife.
Overmixing the batter can toughen the cake. Mix just until combined.
Not allowing the cake layers to cool completely can cause the frosting to melt off.
Using cold butter instead of softened can prevent the sugar from properly creaming, leading to a denser cake.

Cooling, Storing & Rewarming

Once your Southern Caramel Cake is frosted, allow it to set at room temperature for about an hour before slicing. To store, keep the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you need to store it longer, place it in the refrigerator, where it can last up to a week. To rewarm, simply place a slice in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or until just warmed through, being careful not to overheat.

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Final Thoughts

Making a Southern Caramel Cake may seem like a daunting task, but with a little patience and the right technique, you’ll create a dessert that is truly unforgettable. The combination of fluffy cake layers and rich caramel frosting is bound to impress anyone fortunate enough to have a slice. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let’s make some sweet memories with this Southern classic. Enjoy every bite of your homemade Southern Caramel Cake!