Classic Southern Caramel Cake

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Ingredients

For the Cake:

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

For the Caramel Frosting:

• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 2 cups light brown sugar, packed
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Cake:

1. Prepare the Oven and Pans:
   • 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, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar:
   • In a large bowl, beat the butter and granulated sugar together on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
4. Add Eggs:
   • Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
   • Add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture in three parts, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
   • Stir in the vanilla extract.
6. Bake:
   • Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans.
   • Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
   • Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then remove from pans and cool completely on a wire rack.

Caramel Frosting:

1. Melt Butter and Sugar:
   • In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
   • Add the brown sugar and stir continuously for 2 minutes until the sugar is dissolved.
2. Add Milk:
   • Slowly add the milk, stirring constantly until well combined.
   • Bring the mixture to a boil, then remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
3. Add Powdered Sugar:
   • Transfer the caramel mixture to a large bowl. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating on low speed until smooth and creamy.
   • Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Cool the Frosting:
   • Let the frosting cool to a spreadable consistency before using.

Assembly

1. Layer the Cakes:
   • Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of caramel frosting over the top.
   • Repeat with the second cake layer and another layer of frosting.
   • Place the third cake layer on top.
2. Frost the Cake:
   • Spread the remaining caramel frosting evenly over the top and sides of the cake.

Serving

• Serve:
  • Slice and enjoy this rich and decadent Classic Southern Caramel Cake.

Nutrition (Per Serving)

• Calories: 600
• Total Fat: 30g
  • Saturated Fat: 18g
• Cholesterol: 140mg
• Sodium: 220mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 83g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 63g
• Protein: 4g