Description
This Perfect Caramel Cake is a Southern-style showstopper with rich, buttery yellow cake layers and glossy, homemade caramel frosting. Each bite is pure indulgence, finished with optional crunchy toffee or pecan topping. Ideal for holidays, birthdays, or whenever you’re craving a sweet, caramel-packed treat from scratch.
Ingredients
For the cake:
-
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
-
2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
-
1/2 teaspoon salt
-
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
-
2 cups granulated sugar
-
4 large eggs
-
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
-
1 cup whole milk
For the caramel frosting:
-
1 cup unsalted butter
-
2 cups packed brown sugar
-
2/3 cup evaporated milk
-
4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
-
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Garnish:
-
Chopped toffee bits or toasted pecans
Instructions
-
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch cake pans.
-
In a medium bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt together.
-
In a large mixing bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
-
Beat in eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla.
-
Alternately add flour mixture and milk, starting and ending with flour. Mix just until combined.
-
Divide batter evenly into prepared pans and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let cakes cool completely.
-
For the frosting, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in brown sugar and cook for 2–3 minutes.
-
Add evaporated milk and bring to a gentle boil, stirring constantly.
-
Remove from heat and whisk in powdered sugar and vanilla until thick and smooth.
-
Assemble by spreading frosting between each layer and over the top and sides of the cake.
-
Garnish with chopped toffee or pecans if desired. Let frosting set before slicing.
Notes
-
Cakes can be baked a day ahead and stored wrapped at room temperature.
-
For a thicker frosting layer, double the frosting recipe.
-
Refrigerate leftovers and let come to room temperature before serving.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert / Cake
- Method: Baked / Stovetop (for frosting)
- Cuisine: Southern / American
