Southern Caramel Cake: A Deliciously Sweet Southern Classic

Welcome to the world of Southern baking, where recipes are steeped in tradition and flavor. Among the classics, there’s one that stands out for its indulgent sweetness and irresistible allure: Southern Caramel Cake. This delectable dessert combines the richness of caramel with the lightness of cake, creating a masterpiece that’s perfect for any occasion. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the process of making this Southern delicacy, from start to finish. Get ready to satisfy your sweet tooth and impress your friends and family with this heavenly treat!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What makes Southern Caramel Cake different from regular caramel cake? A: Southern Caramel Cake is known for its intense caramel flavor and moist texture. The cake itself is typically a simple yellow cake, while the star of the show is the luscious caramel frosting that’s generously slathered between the layers and on top of the cake.

Q: Can I make this cake from scratch instead of using a cake mix? A: Yes, you can absolutely make the cake layers from scratch if you prefer. However, using a cake mix is a convenient and time-saving option that still produces delicious results.

Q: Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter in the caramel frosting? A: While you can use salted butter, it’s best to stick with unsalted butter for this recipe to control the saltiness of the frosting. You can always add a pinch of salt if you prefer a salted caramel flavor.

Q: How should I store leftover cake? A: Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also refrigerate the cake to extend its shelf life, but be sure to bring it to room temperature before serving to enjoy its full flavor and texture.

Q: Can I freeze this cake? A: Yes, you can freeze the cake layers (unfrosted) for up to 3 months. Wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing them in the freezer. Thaw the layers in the refrigerator overnight before frosting and assembling the cake.

Ingredients:

1 (15.25 ounce) package yellow cake mix
1 cup water
1/3 cup vegetable oil
3 large eggs
1/2 cup butter
1 pound light brown sugar
1/2 cup evaporated milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Layers

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, water, vegetable oil, and eggs. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes, until the batter is smooth and well combined.
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake 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.
Remove the cakes from the oven and allow them to cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then, transfer the cakes to wire racks to cool completely.

Step 2: Make the Caramel Frosting

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
Stir in the brown sugar and evaporated milk until well combined.
Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly. Allow it to boil for 2 minutes, then remove it from the heat.
Stir in the vanilla extract, then let the caramel frosting cool for 15-20 minutes, until it thickens slightly.

Step 3: Assemble the Cake

Place one of the cooled cake layers on a serving platter or cake stand.
Spread a generous layer of caramel frosting over the top of the cake layer.
Place the second cake layer on top, then frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining caramel frosting.
Serve slices of cake and enjoy!

Cook Notes and Variations:

Add Nuts: For extra flavor and crunch, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the caramel frosting before serving.
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the top of the cake for a decadent finishing touch.
Fruit Filling: Spread a layer of fruit preserves or pie filling between the cake layers for a fruity twist on this classic recipe.

Keto Versions and Low-Carb Options:

Keto-Friendly Cake: To make a keto-friendly version of this cake, use a low-carb cake mix and a sugar-free caramel sauce sweetened with erythritol or stevia.
Low-Carb Frosting: Substitute the brown sugar in the caramel frosting with a low-carb sweetener such as erythritol or monk fruit sweetener.

Indulge in the rich, buttery sweetness of Southern Caramel Cake with this easy-to-follow recipe. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a slice of comfort, this classic dessert is sure to delight your taste buds and warm your heart. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to bake up a taste of the South that everyone will love!