Southern Belle Caramel Cake with Dreamy Caramel Icing
Table of Contents
Recipe Introduction: Southern Belle Caramel Cake with Caramel Icing
Ever wondered what pure comfort tastes like? Me too! Then I made this. This Caramel Cake with Caramel Icing is the answer.
It's incredibly moist, buttery, and covered in the most divine homemade icing you've ever tasted. Honestly, it's the kind of cake your grandma would be proud of.
Sweet Beginnings: Your Guide to Southern Caramel Cake Recipe From Scratch
The Southern Caramel Cake has a rich history. It's a staple in Southern baking. It's perfect for celebrations. This Southern Style Caramel Cake version honors that tradition with an extra dose of love.
It's a medium difficulty recipe. It takes about an hour and thirty five minutes. You'll end up with 12 generous slices.
Why You'll Fall Head Over Heels for This Caramel Cake Recipe
The browned butter takes it up another notch. It adds a deep, nutty flavor that makes this cake truly special.
This cake is wonderful for family gatherings. Imagine serving this Classic Caramel Cake at your next Sunday lunch. It's more than just a cake.
It's a moment of pure joy. I have to say it might be the Best Caramel Cake Recipe .
Ready to dive in? You'll need flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, butter, sugar, eggs, vanilla, and buttermilk for the cake.
For the Caramel Frosting For Cakes , grab more butter, brown sugar, heavy cream, salt, and powdered sugar. Now that you have these elements, let's begin.
Alright, y'all ready to dive into this Southern Caramel Cake Recipe From Scratch ? This isn't just any cake; it’s a hug from the South in dessert form.
It has a tender cake and dreamy Caramel Frosting For Cakes . So, let's get down to brass tacks and see what we need.
Ingredients & Equipment
Let's get this show on the road. Before we start, a little story. My grandma always said the secret to a good cake was good ingredients.
I have followed her advice ever since.
Main Ingredients
This recipe is all about the Caramel Cake Recipe . Here's what you'll need:
- All-Purpose Flour : 2 ½ cups (300g) , plus extra for dusting those pans.
- Baking Powder : 1 teaspoon . Make sure it's fresh, ya hear?
- Baking Soda : ½ teaspoon .
- Salt : ½ teaspoon .
- Unsalted Butter : 1 cup (2 sticks / 226g) , browned and slightly cooled. Quality butter makes ALL the difference!
- Granulated Sugar : 1 ¾ cups (350g) .
- Large Eggs : 2 . Grade A, darling.
- Vanilla Extract : 1 teaspoon . Real vanilla, if you can!
- Buttermilk : 1 cup (240ml) . It gives the cake that perfect Southern tang.
- Light Brown Sugar : 1 cup (200g) , packed, for the icing.
- Heavy Cream : ½ cup (120ml) .
- Powdered Sugar : 3-4 cups (360-480g) , sifted. This makes the Caramel Frosting For Cakes so so fluffy.
Seasoning Notes
This Classic Caramel Cake needs certain flavors to pop.
- Vanilla and Brown Butter : A match made in heaven!
- Salt : Balances the sweetness like a charm. Never skip it!
- Bourbon (optional) : Want a little kick? Add a splash to the icing! It's like giving your cake a little Southern swagger.
Equipment Needed
You don’t need a fancy kitchen to make this Easy Caramel Cake Recipe .
- Two 9 inch round cake pans.
- Parchment paper.
- Stand mixer (or a good ol' electric hand mixer).
- Rubber spatula.
- Saucepan.
- Offset spatula.
Now, for real talk. If you do not have a stand mixer, a hand mixer will work just fine. Honestly, sometimes, I even use a whisk and some elbow grease. You know?
Alright y'all, let's dive into making this Southern Belle Caramel Cake with Dreamy Caramel Icing ! This isn't just any cake.
This is the Southern Caramel Cake Recipe From Scratch your grandma used to make. It's pure comfort food. My granny used to make a Classic Caramel Cake every Thanksgiving.
The whole family would gather round just to have a piece. And believe me; everyone wanted seconds! We will be mastering how to make a Southern Caramel Cake !
Prep Like a Pro for Caramel Cake Success
Essential mise en place is crucial. It's the secret to stress free baking. I swear it makes the cake taste better.
Measure out your 2 ½ cups of flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and all the other cake ingredients. Brown your 1 cup of butter.
It is best to get it browned and cooled before you start creaming it with the sugar. This is key for that nutty flavor.
The best time to start is now !
step-by-step to Southern Caramel Cake Glory
Okay, let's get baking!
- Preheat your oven to 350° F ( 175° C) . Grease your two 9 inch pans.
- Whisk together your dry ingredients. Flour, baking powder, and baking soda. Don't skip the salt.
- Cream your browned butter with 1 ¾ cups of sugar. Get it light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, then 1 teaspoon of vanilla. Beat well after each addition.
- Alternate adding dry ingredients with 1 cup of buttermilk. Mix until just combined. Don't overmix!
- Pour batter into prepared pans and bake for 30- 35 minutes . A toothpick should come out clean.
- Cool completely before icing. This is important! I've learned this the hard way.
- Make the Caramel Frosting For Cakes . Melt 1 cup of butter with 1 cup of brown sugar. Add ½ cup of heavy cream and ¼ teaspoon of salt. Simmer, then add powdered sugar to make that Homemade Caramel Cake icing dreamy.
- Spread the Caramel Cake Recipe onto the cake. Let it set slightly, then enjoy a piece of Easy Caramel Cake Recipe !
Pro Tips for a Show Stopping Cake
Don't overbake the cake! Nobody likes a dry cake. Also, cool the cake layers completely before icing. It's a game changer, trust me.
If you're feeling fancy, try browning the butter for the icing too for Brown Butter Caramel Cake . Honestly, its a real game changer!
I love the way that all the flavors meld together. The Best Caramel Cake Recipe I have ever had! So get baking!
Recipe Notes for the Best Caramel Cake Recipe
Alright, y'all, before you dive headfirst into this Southern Caramel Cake Recipe From Scratch , let's chat about some essential recipe notes! Honestly, these little tips can make all the difference.
I've baked this Caramel Cake with Caramel Icing a zillion times and have learned a thing or two along the way.
Serving Like a Southern Hostess
Wanna wow your guests? Think presentation! A simple dusting of powdered sugar gives an elegant touch. For a rustic vibe, I love serving Southern Style Caramel Cake 12 Tomatoes (well, not literally tomatoes, silly!) on a vintage cake stand.
As for sides, vanilla bean ice cream is a match made in heaven. Or, if you're feeling fancy, a few fresh berries add a pop of color and freshness.
A hot cup of coffee or tea is the perfect way to finish it off. Makes you feel like you're at grandma's, right?
Storing Your Caramel Cake Secrets
Leftovers? If there are any, congrats! They are so good. In the fridge, this Classic Caramel Cake keeps for about 3 days.
Just make sure it's well covered. As for freezing, I don't really recommend it. The Caramel Frosting For Cakes can get a little weird.
If you MUST freeze, wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap, then foil. Thaw in the fridge overnight. When reheating it, just leave it out for 30 minutes to take the chill off.
You know?
Tweaking the Southern Caramel Cake Recipe
Fancy a twist? Try adding a couple of tablespoons of bourbon to the Homemade Caramel Cake icing. BOOM! Instant upgrade.
Need a gluten-free option? Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend. Just remember, baking times might vary.
Oh, and for a salted Brown Butter Caramel Cake , sprinkle sea salt on top of the icing. Sweet and salty? Yes, please!
Nutrition - The Good Stuff
Ok, let's be real, this Easy Caramel Cake Recipe isn't exactly a health food. But hey, a little indulgence never hurt anyone, right? A slice is about 550-650 calories.
It's got some protein, fat, carbs and sugar. Just enjoy it in moderation. It's good for the soul!
Okay, so there you have it! My little guide to make your Caramel Cake with Caramel Icing a success. Don't be scared, just have fun, and remember, even if it's not perfect, it's still gonna be delicious!
Frequently Asked Questions
My caramel icing is too thin! What did I do wrong, and how can I fix it?
Ah, the dreaded thin icing! This usually happens when the caramel isn't cooked long enough or if it's too warm when you add the powdered sugar. Next time, make sure to simmer the caramel for the full 2 minutes, and let it cool slightly before adding the powdered sugar.
To fix it now, try adding a little more sifted powdered sugar, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. Remember, patience is a virtue, especially when dealing with caramel!
Can I make the Caramel Cake with Caramel Icing ahead of time?
Absolutely! The cake layers can be baked a day in advance, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, and stored at room temperature. The caramel icing can also be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
When you're ready to assemble the cake, let the icing come to room temperature or gently reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop until it's spreadable. Think of it as meal prepping, but for dessert a total game changer!
Help! My caramel icing crystallized. Is my batch ruined?
Don't despair! Crystallization happens when sugar molecules start forming crystals. Often, this occurs because sugar granules splash onto the sides of the pan while the caramel is simmering.
You might be able to save it by adding a tablespoon or two of water to the saucepan, bringing it back to a simmer, and stirring gently until the crystals dissolve. If that doesn't work, don't fret! You can still use the cake layers and try a different frosting, like a classic vanilla buttercream.
I'm on a bit of a health kick. Are there any healthier swaps I can make in this Caramel Cake with Caramel Icing recipe?
While this is a decadent dessert, we can definitely make some tweaks! You can reduce the amount of sugar in both the cake and the icing by about ¼ cup each. You can also substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat pastry flour for a slightly nuttier flavor and increased fiber.
For the icing, consider using a lighter butter alternative, but be mindful that it will change the flavor. The key is balance - a little indulgence is good for the soul!
Can I freeze the Caramel Cake with Caramel Icing?
You sure can! For best results, freeze the cake layers before frosting them. Wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. You can freeze the unfrosted layers for up to 2-3 months.
The caramel icing can also be frozen separately in an airtight container, although the texture might change slightly upon thawing. Let everything thaw completely before assembling and enjoying.
What are some fun variations I can try with this Caramel Cake with Caramel Icing recipe?
Oh, the possibilities are endless! For a boozy twist, add a couple of tablespoons of bourbon, rum, or whiskey to the caramel icing for a Bourbon Caramel Cake. For a salted caramel version, sprinkle a generous pinch of sea salt over the top of the frosted cake.
You can also add chopped pecans or walnuts to the icing for added texture and flavor. Get creative and put your own stamp on it, and remember, if you're having fun, you're doing it right!
Southern Belle Caramel Cake With Dreamy Caramel
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 550-650 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 30-40g |
| Fiber | 5g |