The Best Caramel Cake From Scratch Recipe You’ll Ever Try

Sweet memories of grandma’s kitchen swirl around this decadent caramel cake that promises pure comfort.

Layers of golden sponge whisper nostalgic stories from childhood afternoons.

Soft, buttery crumb melts like silk on your tongue.

Delicate caramel notes dance between tender cake layers, creating symphonies of rich sweetness.

Crafting this dessert becomes an intimate journey through generations of baking love.

Smooth frosting promises indulgence with every single bite.

Jump into this recipe and recreate a slice of culinary magic that connects past and present.

Why My Caramel Cake from Scratch Will Sweeten Your Day

• Craft a Homemade Dessert Masterpiece: Create a stunning caramel cake from scratch that showcases your baking skills and impresses everyone with its rich, golden layers and decadent caramel frosting.
• Crowd-Pleasing Family Favorite: Perfect for gatherings, birthdays, or special celebrations, this cake brings everyone together with its irresistible sweet and buttery flavor that appeals to all ages.
• Master Baking Techniques: Learn professional baking methods like creaming butter and sugar, alternating ingredients, and creating a smooth caramel frosting that elevates your culinary expertise.
• Customize with Personal Touches: Experiment with additional caramel drizzles, nuts, or decorative elements to make this cake uniquely yours and add a personal flair to your dessert.

Essential Ingredients for My Caramel Cake from Scratch

• Sugar: The key sweetener that provides a delightful sugary taste to the cake.
• Butter: Adds rich flavor and creates a tender, moist texture for the cake.
• Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and provide structure to the cake.
• Flour: The primary base that gives the cake its structure and form.
• Buttermilk: Adds moisture and creates a tender crumb with a slight tangy flavor.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile with its warm, sweet aroma.

• Baking Powder, Baking Soda: Help the cake rise and create a light, fluffy texture.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor of the cake.

• Brown Sugar: Provides a deep, rich caramel flavor to the frosting.
• Butter: Creates a smooth, creamy base for the caramel sauce.
• Milk: Helps to create the right consistency for the caramel mixture.
• Powdered Sugar: Gives the frosting its sweet taste and smooth, spreadable texture.

Step-by-Step Guide to My Caramel Cake from Scratch

Step 1: Prepare Baking Station

Warm up your oven to 350F. Grab three round cake pans and coat them generously with butter and flour to prevent sticking.

Set these aside while you begin mixing.

Step 2: Create Fluffy Cake Base

• Sugar
• Butter

Blend until the mixture looks light and airy.

Gently fold in eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Baking soda
• Salt

Combine these ingredients until they’re perfectly blended.

Step 4: Combine Cake Mixture

Slowly introduce dry ingredients into the butter mixture. Pour in buttermilk alternately, mixing thoroughly after each addition.

Stir in vanilla extract for an extra flavor boost.

Step 5: Bake Golden Layers

Distribute batter evenly across prepared pans.

Slide into the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick – it should come out clean.

Step 6: Cool Cake Layers

Allow cakes to rest in pans for 5-10 minutes. Carefully transfer to wire cooling racks and let them reach room temperature.

Step 7: Craft Luxurious Caramel Frosting

• Brown sugar
• Milk

Bring to a rolling boil, stirring constantly.

Reduce heat and simmer for 2 minutes. Remove from stove and mix in vanilla extract.

Let cool completely.

Step 8: Assemble Decadent Cake

Beat powdered sugar into caramel mixture until smooth and creamy.

Generously spread frosting between cake layers and cover entire cake.

Step 9: Final Touches

Optional: Drizzle extra caramel sauce or sprinkle decorative toppings.

Slice and serve this heavenly dessert to eager guests.

Insider Tips for Perfecting My Caramel Cake from Scratch

• Carefully line cake pans with parchment paper after greasing and flouring to ensure easy cake removal without breaking.
• Cream butter and sugar thoroughly for at least 3-4 minutes to incorporate air, creating a lighter, softer cake crumb.
• Allow caramel mixture to cool completely before adding powdered sugar to prevent runny or separated frosting.
• Do not overbake the cake layers; check doneness early and remove from oven when a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.
• Use fresh, room-temperature eggs and high-quality butter for the most rich and delectable caramel cake flavor.

Fun Twists to Try on My Caramel Cake from Scratch

• Chocolate Caramel Cake: Add cocoa powder to the cake batter for a rich chocolate base, then layer with classic caramel frosting for a decadent chocolate-caramel combination.
• Salted Caramel Cake: Sprinkle sea salt flakes between cake layers and on top of the frosting to create a sophisticated sweet-and-salty flavor profile.
• Nutty Caramel Cake: Fold chopped pecans or walnuts into the cake batter and garnish the frosted cake with toasted nuts for extra crunch and depth.
• Spiced Caramel Cake: Incorporate ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger into the cake batter to create a warm, aromatic version of the classic caramel cake.

Pairings That Elevate My Caramel Cake from Scratch

• Pair Decadent Coffee with Caramel Cake: Rich, bold espresso or cappuccino cuts through the sweetness, creating a harmonious balance that elevates the cake's caramel notes.
• Complement with Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy, cold vanilla ice cream provides a delightful contrast to the warm, rich cake, enhancing the overall dessert experience with its smooth texture.
• Serve Alongside Toasted Pecans: Sprinkle chopped, lightly toasted pecans around the plate to add a nutty crunch that complements the caramel's deep, buttery flavor and provides a delightful textural contrast.
• Match with Sweet Dessert Wine: A glass of sweet Sauternes or late-harvest Riesling pairs beautifully, its honeyed notes and slight acidity perfectly balancing the cake's intense caramel sweetness.

How to Keep My Caramel Cake from Scratch Fresh

• Store leftover caramel cake in an airtight container or tightly wrapped with plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. Keep cake away from strong-smelling foods to prevent flavor absorption.
• Wrap completely cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap, then cover with aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
• Wrap each cake slice separately in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze up to 1 month for quick individual servings.

FAQs

• Is this cake difficult to make for beginners?

This cake requires some baking skills but is manageable for anyone willing to follow instructions carefully. The key is measuring ingredients precisely and paying attention to mixing techniques.

• What makes the caramel frosting special?

The frosting is made by creating a rich caramel base with brown sugar and butter, which gives a deep, complex flavor that’s more authentic than store-bought versions. Cooking the caramel mixture carefully ensures a smooth, creamy texture.

• Can I substitute buttermilk if I don't have it?

Yes, you can make a buttermilk substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice to 1 cup of regular milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using, which will create the same tangy effect and tender cake texture.

My Caramel Cake From Scratch Recipe

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4.7 from 32 reviews

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

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Description

Silky Southern Caramel Cake celebrates classic Southern baking with rich, golden layers draped in smooth caramel frosting. Warm kitchen memories blend perfectly with sweet nostalgia, inviting you to savor each delectable bite of this timeless dessert.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 cup unsalted butter (for cake)
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup unsalted butter (for frosting)
• 2 cups packed light brown sugar

Leavening and Seasoning Ingredients:

• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for cake)
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (for frosting)

Additional Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 4 cups powdered sugar

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Instructions

1. Prepare the baking environment by heating the oven to 350F (175C). Thoroughly coat three 9-inch round cake pans with grease and flour to prevent sticking.
2. Create the cake base by whipping sugar and butter until they transform into a light, airy mixture. Incorporate eggs individually, ensuring thorough blending after each addition.
3. Separately combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt, whisking to distribute ingredients evenly.
4. Methodically integrate dry ingredients into the creamed mixture, alternating with buttermilk. Mix thoroughly to maintain a smooth, consistent batter. Fold in vanilla extract for enhanced flavor complexity.
5. Distribute batter equally among prepared pans. Bake for 20-25 minutes, checking doneness by inserting a toothpick into the cake’s center – it should emerge clean.
6. Allow cakes to rest in pans for 5-10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks for complete cooling.
7. Craft caramel frosting by melting butter over medium heat. Introduce brown sugar and milk, bringing the mixture to a vigorous boil while continuously stirring. Reduce heat, simmer for 2 minutes. Remove from heat, incorporate vanilla extract. Cool to room temperature.
8. Whip powdered sugar with caramel mixture until achieving a silky, smooth consistency. Once cakes are completely cooled, apply generous frosting layers between cake tiers and across entire surface.
9. Optional: Embellish with additional caramel drizzle or preferred decorative elements. Slice and present this decadent, luxurious dessert for immediate enjoyment.

Notes

• Ensure butter and eggs are at room temperature for smoother, more even cake batter mixing.
• Use fresh baking powder and baking soda to guarantee the cake rises properly and maintains a light texture.
• Avoid overmixing the batter to prevent a tough, dense cake; mix just until ingredients are combined.
• For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend and add xanthan gum for better structure.
• Create a dairy-free alternative by using plant-based butter, non-dairy milk, and egg substitutes like applesauce or flax eggs.
• Measure ingredients precisely using weight measurements for consistent results every time.
• Cool cakes completely before frosting to prevent melting and sliding of the caramel frosting.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Desserts
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 519
• Sugar: 49 g
• Sodium: 190 mg
• Fat: 26 g
• Saturated Fat: 15 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 0.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 69 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 4 g
• Cholesterol: 75 mg