Description
This Southern Caramel Cake features three layers of moist, buttery cake drizzled with rich homemade caramel sauce, making it a perfect treat for celebrations or any sweet craving. Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and textures, topped with optional pecans for an extra crunch!
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for caramel sauce)
- Optional: chopped pecans for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and granulated sugar with an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy (about 4-5 minutes).
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with buttermilk, starting and ending with dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
- Evenly divide the batter among the three prepared cake pans and smooth the tops.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then turn them out onto wire racks to cool completely.
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine brown sugar and heavy cream. Stir until sugar is dissolved.
- Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently until slightly thickened.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Allow to cool slightly.
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread caramel sauce over the top.
- Place the second layer on top and repeat with more caramel sauce.
- Add the third layer on top. Optionally, drizzle caramel sauce over the top and sides.
- Sprinkle chopped pecans on top for added texture (optional).
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the caramel to set.
- Slice into generous pieces and enjoy the beautiful layers and oozy caramel.
- Perfect for any occasion, serve with coffee or vanilla ice cream.
Notes
- For best results, ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting.
- The cake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes