Yummy Southern Caramel Cake Recipes

Southern Caramel Cake is a timeless dessert that’s been loved for generations across the American South. Known for its rich, buttery layers and smooth, homemade caramel frosting, this cake is pure comfort in every bite. Whether it’s served at Sunday dinners, holidays, or special occasions, this classic cake brings a taste of Southern hospitality to the table. If you’ve never tried a true Southern caramel cake before, get ready to fall in love with its melt-in-your-mouth sweetness and warm, nostalgic flavor.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 3 cups (375g) all-purpose flour
- 2 ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups (400g) sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup (240ml) whole milk
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
For the Caramel Frosting:
- 1 ½ cups (300g) sugar
- ¾ cup (170g) unsalted butter
- ½ cup (120ml) heavy cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Cake
- Preheat oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease and flour three 8-inch cake pans.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Cream Butter & Sugar: In another large bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 3 minutes).
- Add Eggs & Vanilla: Beat in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla extract.
- Combine: Add the dry ingredients alternately with the milk, mixing until smooth.
- Bake: Divide the batter evenly between the cake pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool: Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
Step 2: Make the Caramel Frosting
- Melt Sugar & Butter: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt sugar and butter together, stirring continuously.
- Add Cream: Slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring.
- Cook & Thicken: Continue stirring and let the caramel thicken for about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla.
- Cool Slightly: Let the caramel cool for 10-15 minutes before frosting the cake.
Step 3: Assemble the Cake
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread caramel frosting over the top.
- Repeat with the second and third layers, spreading frosting evenly.
- Pour the remaining caramel over the cake, letting it drip down the sides.
- Let the cake set for about 30 minutes before slicing.
Conclusion
There’s nothing quite like a slice of Southern Caramel Cake to bring comfort and joy to any occasion. With its tender, buttery layers and rich, creamy caramel frosting, this cake is sure to impress your family and guests. Whether you’re continuing a family tradition or baking it for the first time, this classic Southern dessert is a true crowd-pleaser. Serve it with a hot cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk — and enjoy every sweet, caramel-filled bite!
Tips:
✔ For extra flavor, add a pinch of salt to the caramel frosting.
✔ If the caramel thickens too much, warm it slightly before spreading.
✔ Make it ahead! The cake tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop.
Enjoy your Southern Caramel Cake! 🍰 Let me know if you want an image or any variations! 😊