Southern caramel cake is a beloved classic that evokes nostalgia and warmth with each delicious bite. This luscious layer cake, famously known for its decadently sweet caramel icing, is a staple at Southern gatherings, birthday celebrations, and holiday feasts. Its creamy, buttery layers combined with the rich flavor of caramel make it a showstopper that’s perfect for any occasion. If you’ve ever wandered into a Southern kitchen where freshly baked goods are served, you might have encountered this delightful dessert. Now, you can bring that experience to your home with this timeless recipe!

Why you’ll love this dish

What sets this Southern caramel cake apart is its beautifully moist texture and the delicious contrast between the sweet caramel icing and the fluffy cake layers. Not only is it a feast for the taste buds, but it also makes for a stunning centerpiece on any dessert table. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or just want to treat your family during the week, this cake is sure to impress. Plus, it’s relatively easy to make without any complicated techniques, making it accessible for both novice and experienced bakers.

"This Southern caramel cake is the highlight of our family gatherings! The caramel icing is to die for, and everyone raves about how moist the cake is!" – Happy Baker

How this recipe comes together

Creating a Southern caramel cake involves a few straightforward steps that lead to a delectable outcome. You’ll start by preparing the cake layers, blending together buttery goodness with just the right amount of sweetness. Once your layers have baked to perfection, you’ll whip up a silky caramel icing that elevates this dessert to a whole new level. The steps are simple but ensure a lovely homemade touch that everyone will appreciate.

What you’ll need

Before you begin, gather these essential ingredients to create your cake:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup unsalted butter (for icing)
• 1 1/2 cups brown sugar, packed
• 1/2 cup evaporated milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for icing)
• Pinch of salt

Feel free to use whole milk if you don’t have buttermilk on hand; just add a little vinegar to it and let it sit for 5-10 minutes.