Southern Caramel Cake

Imagine a dessert that embodies the warmth, hospitality, and rich culinary heritage of the American South. This Southern Caramel Cake is more than just a cake – it's a slice of nostalgia, a celebration of time-honored baking traditions.

Each layer tells a story of family gatherings, Sunday suppers, and generations of love baked into a single, magnificent dessert. The luscious caramel icing cascades down the sides, promising a flavor that's both indulgent and deeply comforting.

Whether you're honoring a family recipe or creating a new tradition, this cake will become a cherished centerpiece of any Southern table.

Southern Caramel Cake: A Sweet Symphony of Southern Baking

Step into a world of pure Southern comfort with a cake recipe that's been passed down through generations. The rich, buttery layers crowned with decadent caramel icing represent the pinnacle of Southern dessert artistry.

Imagine cutting into a cake so moist and luxurious that it melts on your tongue, with a caramel frosting that's both silky and intensely flavorful. This is more than a dessert – it's a culinary masterpiece.

Serving Suggestions:

• Pair with a cold glass of sweet tea
• Serve after a classic Southern meal
• Enjoy with a scoop of vanilla ice cream
• Perfect for family reunions
• Ideal for holiday gatherings

Pro Tips for the Perfect Southern Caramel Cake:

Butter Brilliance: Use room temperature butter for the smoothest, most tender cake possible.

Caramel Crafting: Stir the caramel icing constantly to prevent burning and achieve the perfect consistency.

Mixing Magic: Don't overmix the batter. Mix just until the ingredients are combined to keep the cake light and fluffy.

Icing Insight: Work quickly when frosting – the caramel sets fast and creates a beautiful, glossy finish.

Make-Ahead Marvel: This cake tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.

Southern Caramel Cake Recipe Details:

• Preparation time: 30 minutes
• Baking time: 25-30 minutes
• Servings: 12-16
• Equipment: Three 9-inch round cake pans, heavy-bottomed saucepan, mixing bowls, electric mixer

Ingredients:

For the Cake Base:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 and ½ cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

For the Caramel Icing:

• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 2 cups packed light brown sugar
• ¾ cup evaporated milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 4 to 5 cups powdered sugar (as needed for thickness)

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Carefully grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans, ensuring every surface is well-coated to prevent sticking.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar together. Use an electric mixer on medium-high speed, beating for 4 minutes until the mixture becomes light, fluffy, and almost white in color.
3. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This method ensures each egg is fully incorporated, creating a smooth and consistent batter.
4. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This step helps distribute the leavening agents evenly throughout the dry ingredients.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the flour mixture. Mix just until combined – overmixing can lead to a tough cake.
6. Stir in the vanilla extract to enhance the cake's rich flavor.
7. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula to ensure an even bake.
8. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center – it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
9. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes. This allows them to set and makes removal easier. Then, carefully turn them out onto wire racks to cool completely.
10. For the caramel icing, melt butter in a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat. Add brown sugar and stir constantly for 2 to 3 minutes until smooth and bubbling.
11. Slowly stir in evaporated milk and bring the mixture to a low boil. Let simmer for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
12. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
13. Gradually beat in powdered sugar until the icing reaches a thick but pourable consistency. If needed, adjust with more milk or sugar.
14. Frost the cake layers while the caramel is still warm. Work quickly, pouring the icing over the top and letting it cascade down the sides.

Ready to Indulge!

Slice into this Southern Caramel Cake and watch as your guests marvel at its incredible flavor and texture. Each bite is a perfect balance of buttery cake and rich caramel goodness.

Storage Solutions:

• Store at room temperature, covered, for up to 3 days
• Refrigerate for extended freshness up to 5 days
• Can be frozen for up to 1 month
• Bring to room temperature before serving
• Cover cut sides to prevent drying out

Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a moment of Southern culinary joy, this Southern Caramel Cake promises to be the star of any gathering.

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