Southern Caramel Cake

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Southern Caramel Cake

A Southern Caramel Cake is a classic, indulgent dessert known for its rich, buttery cake layers and a deeply flavorful caramel frosting. This cake is perfect for celebrations, family gatherings, or any special occasion where you want to impress with a homemade treat.

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

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

For the Caramel Frosting:

  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 1 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 cup evaporated milk
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Directions:

1. Prepare the Cake:

  1. Preheat the Oven:
    • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
    • In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
  3. Cream Butter and Sugar:
    • In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
  4. Add Eggs:
    • Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.
  5. Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients:
    • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
  6. Bake the Cake:
    • Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula.
    • Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
    • Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn them out onto a wire rack to cool completely.

2. Prepare the Caramel Frosting:

  1. Melt Butter and Sugars:
    • In a large saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and butter. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the butter is melted and the mixture is smooth.
  2. Add Evaporated Milk:
    • Slowly add the evaporated milk, continuing to stir. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the caramel is thickened and smooth.
  3. Add Vanilla:
    • Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Let the frosting cool slightly before using.

3. Assemble the Cake:

  1. Frost the Layers:
    • Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of caramel frosting over the top. Repeat with the second layer.
  2. Top and Frost:
    • Place the final cake layer on top. Spread the remaining caramel frosting over the top and sides of the cake, working quickly as the frosting will thicken as it cools.
  3. Finish and Serve:
    • Allow the cake to set for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the frosting firm up. Slice and enjoy the rich, caramel goodness of this Southern classic!

Tips:

  • Caramel Consistency: If the caramel frosting becomes too thick to spread, you can gently reheat it over low heat while stirring to soften it.
  • Storage: Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

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