a classic Southern Caramel Cake
### Southern Caramel Cake
#### Ingredients
**For the Cake:**
– 3 cups cake flour
– 1 tbsp baking powder
– ½ tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs, room temperature
– 1 cup whole milk, room temperature
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
**For the Caramel Icing:**
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 1 cup evaporated milk
– ½ cup unsalted butter
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
#### Instructions
**For the Cake:**
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, sift together the cake flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture in thirds, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the flour mixture. Mix just until combined.
6. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn them out onto wire racks to cool completely.
**For the Caramel Icing:**
1. In a heavy saucepan, combine the sugar, evaporated milk, and butter. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture begins to boil.
2. Reduce heat to low and continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the icing reaches a golden caramel color and thickens, about 15-20 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Let the icing cool slightly until it reaches a spreadable consistency.
**Assembly:**
1. Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a layer of caramel icing over the top.
2. Repeat with the second and third layers, spreading icing over the top and sides of the cake.
3. Allow the icing to set before slicing and serving.
Enjoy your delicious Southern Caramel Cake!