Irresistible Classic Southern Caramel Cake Recipe For Beginners

Sweet memories of grandmother’s kitchen dance through my classic southern caramel cake recipe.

Nostalgic aromas waft from an heirloom cookbook passed down generations.

Southern bakers understand cake isn’t just dessert – it’s storytelling on a plate.

Layers of rich, golden sponge promise delectable indulgence with each tender crumb.

Smooth caramel frosting whispers tales of warm afternoons and loving hands.

Soft butter and pure vanilla blend into a confection that speaks directly to your soul.

Baking this cake connects you with cherished traditions waiting to be savored.

Classic Southern Caramel Cake FAQs Uncovered

• What is the key to achieving a light and fluffy cake texture?

The secret is creaming the butter and sugar thoroughly for 3-5 minutes until the mixture becomes light and airy, which helps create a tender crumb in the cake.

• Can I substitute ingredients if I don't have some on hand?

Self-rising flour can be replaced by adding 1½ teaspoons of baking powder and ½ teaspoon of salt to all-purpose flour. If buttermilk is unavailable, mix regular milk with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice and let it sit for 5 minutes.

• How do I prevent my caramel icing from becoming grainy?

Continuously stir the mixture while cooking and sift the powdered sugar before adding it to the caramel to ensure a smooth, creamy consistency without any lumps.

Classic Southern Caramel Cake That’s Pure Decadence

• Discover Southern Comfort: Indulge in a classic Southern dessert that brings warmth and nostalgia to your table, capturing the essence of traditional home baking.
• Master Baking Techniques: Learn professional cake-making skills through a straightforward recipe that guides you step-by-step, helping you create a stunning layered cake with confidence.
• Crowd-Pleasing Dessert: Perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, and special celebrations, this caramel cake guarantees smiles and compliments from everyone who takes a bite.
• Luxurious Flavor Experience: Enjoy the rich, decadent combination of moist cake layers and silky smooth caramel icing that melts in your mouth with every forkful.

What You Need For Classic Southern Caramel Cake

• Butter: A rich, creamy ingredient that provides moisture and helps create a tender cake texture.
• Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a light, fluffy cake structure.
• Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and provide structure to the cake.
• Self-Rising Flour: A special flour blend that includes leavening agents for a soft, rise cake.
• Buttermilk: Adds tanginess and helps create a moist, tender crumb.

• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor with its warm, aromatic profile.

• Butter: Creates a rich, smooth base for the caramel icing.
• Brown Sugar: Provides deep, caramel-like sweetness and color.
• Evaporated Milk: Adds creaminess and helps create a smooth icing consistency.
• Powdered Sugar: Sweetens and thickens the caramel icing.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds depth and warmth to the caramel flavor.

Step-By-Step Classic Southern Caramel Cake Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Baking Station

Warm up the oven to 350F. Generously coat three 9-inch round cake pans with butter and flour to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Create Fluffy Butter Base

Blend butter and sugar in a large mixing bowl until the mixture becomes light and airy. This process takes about 3-5 minutes of continuous mixing.

Step 3: Incorporate Eggs

Gently add eggs one at a time, thoroughly mixing after each addition to create a smooth, consistent batter.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

• Self-rising flour
• Buttermilk

Gradually fold the flour mixture into the butter base, alternating with buttermilk. Mix in vanilla extract for extra flavor.

Step 5: Prepare Cake Layers

Evenly distribute the batter across the prepared cake pans. Smooth the surface of each layer with a spatula.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Slide the pans into the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean when inserted into the center. Let cakes rest in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack for complete cooling.

Step 7: Craft Decadent Caramel Icing

• Brown sugar
• Evaporated milk

Bring to a gentle boil, stirring constantly. Simmer for 5 minutes, then remove from heat.

Step 8: Create Smooth Icing

Gradually whisk in sifted powdered sugar until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy. Stir in vanilla extract for added depth of flavor.

Step 9: Assemble Magnificent Cake

Place first cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of caramel icing. Repeat with second layer. Top with the final layer and coat the entire cake with remaining caramel icing.

Step 10: Serve and Enjoy

Allow the cake to set for a few minutes. Slice and serve this delightful Southern classic to eager guests.

Pro Secrets To Classic Southern Caramel Cake Success

• Swap buttermilk with yogurt or milk mixed with lemon juice for a quick substitute if you don't have buttermilk on hand.
• Use room temperature eggs and butter to ensure smooth, even cake batter with perfect texture.
• Prevent cake layers from sticking by lining cake pans with parchment paper after greasing and flouring.
• Check cake doneness early to avoid overbaking, which can make the cake dry and crumbly.
• Cool cakes completely before frosting to prevent the caramel icing from melting and sliding off the layers.

Delicious Ways To Switch Up Classic Southern Caramel Cake

• Chocolate Caramel Cake: Incorporate cocoa powder into the cake batter for a rich chocolate base, complementing the sweet caramel icing with deep, indulgent flavors.
• Pecan Praline Caramel Cake: Sprinkle chopped pecans between cake layers and on top of the icing for a crunchy, nutty Southern-style enhancement.
• Salted Caramel Variation: Add a pinch of sea salt to the caramel icing for a sophisticated sweet-and-salty profile that elevates the classic recipe.
• Spiced Caramel Cake: Mix ground cinnamon and nutmeg into the cake batter to create warm, aromatic undertones that pair beautifully with the caramel frosting.

Perfect Pairings To Enjoy With Classic Southern Caramel Cake

• Pair Velvety Bourbon with Caramel Cake: The smooth, rich bourbon complements the cake's deep caramel notes, creating a luxurious flavor harmony that elevates the dessert's sweetness.
• Serve Warm Peconic Coffee: A freshly brewed medium-roast coffee with nutty undertones balances the cake's intense sweetness, providing a perfect counterpoint to the rich caramel flavor.
• Complement with Salted Caramel Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy salted caramel ice cream enhances the cake's decadence, adding a cool, smooth texture that contrasts with the warm cake.
• Create Dessert Wine Pairing: A sweet Moscato or late-harvest Riesling matches the cake's sugary profile, offering a light, fruity accompaniment that doesn't overwhelm the caramel's complexity.

How To Store Classic Southern Caramel Cake So It Lasts

• Wrap the caramel cake tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. Keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The cool temperature helps preserve the cake's moisture and prevents the caramel icing from melting.
• Carefully wrap the entire cake in two layers of plastic wrap, then cover with aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving to maintain texture and flavor.
• Cut individual slices, wrap each separately in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Frozen slices will keep for up to 1 month. Thaw at room temperature for 30-45 minutes before enjoying.

Classic Southern Caramel Cake Recipe

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• Total Time: 55-65 minutes
• Yield: 12 1x

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Description

Sweet Southern charm shines through this classic caramel cake, blending generations of family tradition with rich, golden layers kissed by silky caramel frosting. Southern bakers will savor each heavenly bite of this nostalgic dessert that brings comfort and joy to any gathering.

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Ingredients

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Cake Base Ingredients:

• 3 cups self-rising flour
• 2 cups sugar
• 1 cup butter, softened
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup buttermilk

Flavoring Ingredients:

• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Measurement Notes:

• 1 cup = 240 milliliters
• 1 cup = 8 fluid ounces
• 1 teaspoon = 5 milliliters

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Instructions

1. Warm the oven to 350F (175C) and thoroughly coat three 9-inch round cake pans with grease and flour to prevent sticking.
2. Using an electric mixer, cream butter and sugar until the mixture becomes pale and voluminous, approximately 3-5 minutes for optimal texture.
3. Incorporate eggs individually, thoroughly mixing after each addition to ensure even distribution and smooth batter consistency.
4. Separately combine self-rising flour and buttermilk, then gently fold into the butter mixture in alternating increments, beginning and concluding with flour. Integrate vanilla extract for enhanced flavor complexity.
5. Distribute batter evenly across prepared pans, carefully smoothing surfaces to create uniform layers.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes until a toothpick emerges clean when inserted into cake centers. Allow cakes to rest in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire rack for complete cooling.
7. Craft caramel icing by melting butter over medium heat, then introducing brown sugar and evaporated milk. Simmer gently for 5 minutes, stirring consistently to prevent scorching.
8. Gradually incorporate sifted powdered sugar, whisking meticulously to achieve a silky, lump-free consistency.
9. Enhance icing with vanilla extract, stirring until harmoniously blended.
10. Assemble cake by layering each round with generous caramel icing, ensuring even coverage between layers and coating entire exterior.
11. Permit cake to stabilize for several minutes before serving to allow icing to set and flavors to meld.

Notes

• Ensure butter and sugar are creamed thoroughly for a light, fluffy cake texture that melts in your mouth.
• Use room temperature ingredients to help them blend smoothly and create a more consistent batter without lumps.
• Test cake doneness by gently pressing the center – it should spring back when lightly touched, indicating perfect baking.
• For a gluten-free version, swap self-rising flour with a gluten-free blend and add xanthan gum to maintain cake structure.

• Prep Time: 20-25 minutes
• Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
• Category: Desserts
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Southern American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 462
• Sugar: 31 g
• Sodium: 180 mg
• Fat: 23 g
• Saturated Fat: 14 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
• Trans Fat: 1 g
• Carbohydrates: 60 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 5 g
• Cholesterol: 70 mg