Classic Southern Caramel Cake

Southern Caramel Cake is the epitome of Southern hospitality and tradition. Known for its ultra-moist layers and decadent caramel frosting, this cake is a labor of love that’s guaranteed to be the star of any gathering. The cake itself is tender and buttery, while the caramel icing adds a sweet, melt-in-your-mouth finish with hints of buttermilk richness.

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Why You’ll Love This Classic Southern Caramel Cake 🍰

This cake is the perfect blend of buttery richness and deep caramel flavor. It’s a true Southern favorite that feels nostalgic and comforting. Each layer of cake is moist and fluffy, and the caramel icing is made from scratch, cooked to a perfect consistency for spreading without being overly sticky.

Ingredients You’ll Need 🌾

For the Cake:

• 1 cup butter (2 sticks) – Provides richness and a soft, tender crumb.
• 2 cups sugar – Sweetens the cake and helps with texture.
• 4 large eggs – Adds structure and moisture.
• 3 cups self-rising flour – Self-rising flour helps create a light, fluffy cake.
• 1 cup buttermilk – Adds a slight tang and moistness.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract – Enhances the flavor of the cake.

For the Southern Caramel Frosting:

• 2 cups sugar – Forms the base of the caramel, giving it a rich sweetness.
• 1 cup buttermilk – Adds a creamy tang to the caramel icing.
• ½ cup Crisco (shortening) – Helps create a smooth texture in the caramel.
• ½ cup butter – Adds a buttery richness to the icing.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda – Assists with the caramel’s consistency and helps prevent crystallization.

Step-by-Step Directions 🍞

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare Cake Pans: Grease three 9-inch round cake pans thoroughly. You can add a circle of parchment paper to the bottom of each pan to ensure easy release.

Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter

1. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter until it’s light and fluffy. Gradually add the sugar and continue beating for about 5 more minutes until the mixture is light and airy.
2. Add the Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This helps to build a smooth, well-incorporated batter.
3. Alternate Flour and Buttermilk: Add the self-rising flour and buttermilk alternately to the batter, beginning and ending with the flour. Mix well after each addition to keep the batter smooth and lump-free.
4. Add Vanilla: Finally, add the vanilla extract and beat until combined.

Step 3: Bake the Cakes

1. Divide and Bake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans, smoothing the tops as needed.
2. Bake: Place the pans in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
3. Cool the Cakes: Turn the cakes out onto wire racks and let them cool completely before icing.

Making the Southern Caramel Frosting 🥄

The caramel frosting is the highlight of this cake and requires a bit of patience. This old-fashioned caramel is cooked until it reaches the “softball stage,” creating a creamy, spreadable frosting with a rich, deep flavor.

Step 4: Prepare the Frosting

1. Combine Ingredients: In a 3-4 quart cast iron Dutch oven, mix together the sugar, buttermilk, shortening, butter, and baking soda. Stir gently to combine.
2. Cook to Softball Stage: Over medium heat, cook the mixture while swirling the pan occasionally to keep the ingredients moving. Use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature; it should reach 235º – 245ºF (the “softball stage”). If you don’t have a thermometer, use the cold water test (see below).
3. Remove and Beat: Once the caramel has reached the correct temperature, remove it from the heat. Beat with a wooden spoon until the mixture becomes creamy and thick enough to spread.

Step 5: Test the Caramel (If No Thermometer) 🌊

1. Cold Water Test: Drop a bit of caramel into a cup of cold water. If it forms a small, pliable ball, it’s ready. If the caramel turns into threads that don’t hold together, continue cooking it for a bit longer.

Step 6: Frost the Cake 🎂

1. Layer the Cakes: Place one of the cooled cake layers on a serving plate and spread a portion of the caramel frosting on top.
2. Build the Layers: Repeat with the remaining cake layers, spreading a generous amount of caramel frosting between each layer.
3. Frost the Top and Sides: Once all layers are stacked, spread the remaining caramel frosting over the top and sides of the cake, working quickly as the caramel frosting can set as it cools.

Tips for Perfect Caramel Frosting 🔑

• Swirl, Don’t Stir: Swirling the pan while cooking the caramel helps prevent crystals from forming, keeping your caramel smooth.
• Timing is Key: Be prepared to work quickly once the caramel has reached the softball stage. If it cools too much, it will be harder to spread.
• Practice the Cold Water Test: If you don’t have a candy thermometer, drop a bit of caramel into cold water every few minutes to test its consistency. You’re looking for a ball that holds its shape but is still soft.

Serving Suggestions 🍽️

• Pair with Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream balances the richness of the caramel and adds a refreshing contrast.
• Top with Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of chopped pecans for extra flavor and presentation.
• Serve with Coffee: The caramel and buttery cake flavors pair beautifully with a hot cup of coffee.

Storing the Cake 🧊

• Room Temperature: This cake can be kept at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days. The caramel icing will set slightly, but it will remain delicious.
• Refrigerate for Longer Storage: If you’d like to keep it fresh for longer, store it in the fridge. Allow the cake to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

Nutritional Information (Per Slice) 🧾

This cake is truly indulgent! Here’s a rough nutritional breakdown based on 12 servings:

• Calories: ~480 kcal
• Fat: 24g
• Carbohydrates: 62g
• Protein: 4g

A Slice of Southern Tradition 🎂

Classic Southern Caramel Cake is a treasured recipe that brings together the best of Southern baking. Whether you’re serving it for a family gathering, a holiday, or simply because, this cake is bound to impress. The buttery, tender layers and rich caramel icing create a dessert that’s nothing short of magical. So grab a slice, savor every bite, and enjoy a taste of Southern hospitality!