Southern Caramel Cake Recipe
If you’re on the hunt for a truly indulgent treat that feels like a little piece of Southern hospitality baked into every bite, look no further than this Southern Caramel Cake. Imagine layers of tender, buttery cake soaked in the richness of caramel frosting that’s perfectly sweet and velvety smooth. This cake isn’t just dessert; it’s a warm hug from the South, a classic that’s stood the test of time and continues to bring smiles to any gathering. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just because you deserve a slice of pure joy, the Southern Caramel Cake never disappoints.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, everyday ingredients is the first step to creating this masterpiece. Each component has a special role, from the fluffy buttermilk cake layers to the luscious caramel frosting that ties everything together with buttery charm.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the structure and tenderness you want in your cake layers.
- 2 cups sugar: Sweetens the cake perfectly and helps create a light crumb.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and moisture to the cake, plus it’s essential for the frosting.
- 4 large eggs: Bind the ingredients and give the cake its beautiful rise and texture.
- 1 cup buttermilk: Keeps the cake tender and adds a subtle tang that balances the sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings out all the warm flavors, making the cake inviting and aromatic.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cake rise to fluffy perfection.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Works with the buttermilk to lighten the crumb and add tenderness.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances flavor and balances the sweetness.
- 1 cup brown sugar (for frosting): Gives the caramel frosting its deep, molasses-rich flavor.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (for frosting): Creates that creamy, smooth texture you crave.
- 1/4 cup heavy cream: Adds richness and helps achieve the perfect frosting consistency.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting): Infuses a lovely aroma into the caramel topping.
- Pinch of salt (for frosting): Balances the sweetness and enhances all the caramel goodness.
- Chopped pecans or walnuts (optional garnish): Add a crunchy texture and a nutty contrast to the silky cake.
How to Make Southern Caramel Cake
Step 1: Prepare Your Pans and Preheat
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing three 9-inch round cake pans. Don’t forget to lightly flour them after greasing to prevent sticking. This prep ensures your cake layers come out perfectly shaped and easy to handle.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and sugar until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale in color – this is the secret to a light cake. Taking the time here will give your cake that tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Step 3: Add Eggs, Buttermilk, and Vanilla
Add your eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to incorporate air and keep the batter smooth. Then stir in the buttermilk and vanilla extract, which add flavor and keep the cake wonderfully moist.
Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients and Combine
Whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a separate bowl. Gradually add this blend to your wet ingredients, mixing just until combined to avoid overworking the batter. This careful mixing keeps the cake tender and soft.
Step 5: Bake the Layers
Divide the batter evenly among your prepared pans and bake for 25–30 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to finish cooling completely. Patience here pays off in perfect layers.
Step 6: Make the Caramel Frosting
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine brown sugar, butter, and heavy cream. Stir continuously as the mixture comes to a boil and cook for 2-3 minutes – this cooks out any grittiness and creates that creamy caramel flavor. Remove from heat, then stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Allow the frosting to cool until it thickens slightly so it spreads beautifully.
Step 7: Assemble and Frost
Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on your serving plate and spread a generous layer of caramel frosting over it. Repeat for the second layer, then top with the third. Spread the remaining frosting over the top and sides for a full caramel feast. If you like, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top for some added texture and nutty flavor. Let your Southern Caramel Cake set for at least 30 minutes before slicing – this rest time helps the frosting firm up just right.
How to Serve Southern Caramel Cake
Garnishes
For an extra touch of Southern charm, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on the cake. Not only do they add a beautiful crunch, but the nutty flavor perfectly complements the sweet, buttery caramel. You could also try a light dusting of flaky sea salt to highlight the caramel’s richness.
Side Dishes
Southern Caramel Cake pairs wonderfully with a simple scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. For an added Southern twist, serve it alongside a cup of strong black coffee or sweet tea to balance the sweetness and round out the flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Make your presentation pop by serving this cake on a rustic wooden board or a vintage cake stand for that down-home feel. For a party, consider individual mini Southern Caramel Cakes or cupcakes with the same frosting – they’re just as heavenly and even easier to serve!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap any leftover Southern Caramel Cake tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. It keeps beautifully at room temperature for up to two days, or you can refrigerate it for up to five days to maintain freshness and keep the frosting firm without drying out the cake.
Freezing
If you want to save some cake for later, wrap slices or the whole cake (if it fits) in multiple layers of plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container. Properly wrapped, the Southern Caramel Cake freezes well for up to two months. When you’re ready, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator to keep the texture just right.
Reheating
When serving leftovers, especially if refrigerated or frozen, let the cake come to room temperature before enjoying – this brings back the cake’s softness and allows the frosting to melt slightly for maximum ooey-gooey pleasure. Avoid microwaving if possible, but if you must, do so in short bursts at a low power setting to prevent the frosting from separating.
FAQs
Can I make Southern Caramel Cake gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking. Just make sure it contains xanthan gum or another binder to give the cake structure similar to traditional flour.
Is the caramel frosting difficult to make?
Not at all! The frosting is surprisingly simple and comes together in under 10 minutes on the stove. Just keep stirring to avoid burning and you’ll have a smooth, luscious caramel to coat your cake.
Can I use a different nut for garnish?
Yes! Pecans and walnuts are traditional, but chopped almonds or hazelnuts work beautifully and bring their own unique flavor and texture to the cake.
How long does Southern Caramel Cake last?
When properly stored, it stays delicious for up to five days in the fridge. The rich caramel frosting helps keep the cake moist and fresh.
Can I bake the cake layers ahead of time?
Definitely. Bake the layers a day in advance, wrap them tightly, and refrigerate. Bring to room temperature before frosting for best results.
Final Thoughts
Baking a Southern Caramel Cake is like inviting a little sweetness and comfort into your kitchen, with every bite telling a story of tradition and joy. It’s a cake that never fails to impress and feels like a celebration in itself. So go ahead, try this recipe, and see why Southern Caramel Cake holds a special place in so many hearts. Your taste buds will thank you.
Print
Southern Caramel Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in this classic Southern Caramel Cake featuring moist layers of buttermilk cake smothered in a rich, creamy caramel frosting. Perfect for celebrations or a decadent dessert, this cake combines the comforting flavors of brown sugar caramel and tender, buttery cake for a truly irresistible treat.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Caramel Frosting:
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
For Garnish:
- Chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the oven and pans: Preheat your 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 mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which helps create a tender cake texture.
- Add eggs and liquids: Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the buttermilk and vanilla extract to add moisture and flavor to the batter.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt for even distribution of leavening agents and seasoning.
- Mix dry and wet ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined to avoid overmixing, which can toughen the cake.
- Bake the cakes: Divide the batter evenly among 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 before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
- Make the caramel frosting: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine brown sugar, butter, and heavy cream. Stir constantly and bring to a boil for about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat, then stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Allow the frosting to cool and thicken slightly before frosting the cake.
- Assemble the cake: Once cooled, place one cake layer on a serving platter. Spread a layer of caramel frosting on top, then add the second layer and repeat. Place the final cake layer on top and frost the entire cake evenly with the remaining caramel frosting.
- Garnish and set: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the top if desired. Let the cake set for at least 30 minutes to allow the frosting to firm up before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Make sure the cakes are completely cooled before frosting to prevent the caramel frosting from melting.
- The caramel frosting thickens as it cools; if it becomes too thick, gently warm it while stirring to reach spreadable consistency.
- You can substitute pecans with walnuts or leave off nuts entirely based on preferences or allergies.
- For best results, use room temperature ingredients to ensure even mixing and smooth batter.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12th of cake)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 38 g
- Sodium: 210 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 13 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 60 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg
Keywords: southern caramel cake, caramel cake, homemade cake, decadent desserts, southern baking, caramel frosting, buttermilk cake, nut garnish, celebration cake
