Caramel cakes are a staple in southern cuisine, loved for their rich, buttery flavor and decadent texture. While there are many variations of this classic dessert, one recipe reigns supreme - the homemade southern caramel cake. This beloved treat has been passed down through generations, and now you can bring a taste of the south to your own kitchen with this authentic recipe. In this article, we will break down the steps to creating the perfect caramel cake, from the moist cake layers to the creamy caramel frosting. So grab your apron and get ready to impress your friends and family with this mouthwatering dessert.
Main Ingredients: Brown Sugar, Hot Water, Sugar, Unsalted Butter, Eggs
If you're looking for a unique twist on the classic Southern caramel cake, look no further than this recipe that incorporates Jack Daniels into the mix. The combination of sweet caramel and smooth whiskey creates a truly unforgettable flavor that will have your taste buds singing. Give this recipe a try and impress your friends and family with your culinary skills.
No list of top Southern caramel cake recipes would be complete without the classic version. This recipe stays true to tradition with layers of moist yellow cake, creamy caramel frosting, and a sprinkle of sea salt on top. It's a crowd-pleaser that will transport you to the heart of the South with every bite.
This exclamation-filled recipe title says it all - this is one Southern caramel cake that is sure to impress. With a buttery pound cake base, a rich and gooey caramel filling, and a generous drizzle of caramel sauce, this cake is a true indulgence. Serve it at your next special occasion and watch it disappear in minutes.
Nothing beats a homemade caramel cake, and this Southern recipe is no exception. The secret to its incredible flavor is the use of homemade caramel sauce in both the cake and the frosting. The result is a cake that is moist, decadent, and bursting with caramel goodness.
For those who prefer to stick to the classics, this recipe is for you. It features all the traditional elements of a Southern caramel cake, from the fluffy yellow cake layers to the creamy caramel frosting. It's a timeless recipe that will never go out of style.
6of 18
Simple Southern Caramel Cake
Main Ingredients: Cake Flour, Baking Powder, Baking Soda, Salt, Unsalted
If you're short on time but still want to indulge in a delicious Southern caramel cake, this recipe is the perfect solution. With only a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a decadent, homemade cake on the table in no time. It's proof that sometimes, simple is best.
7of 18
Southern Caramel Cake Cookies
Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Cake Mix, Baking Soda, Butter
Who says you can't have your cake and eat it too? These caramel cake cookies take all the flavors of a classic Southern caramel cake and turn them into bite-sized treats. They're perfect for parties, potlucks, or anytime you're craving a little taste of the South.
8of 18
The Best Southern Caramel Cake
Main Ingredients: Butter, Sugar, Vanilla, Oil, Eggs, Yolks, Greek Yogurt
When only the best will do, turn to this recipe for the ultimate Southern caramel cake. With its tender, buttery layers, silky caramel frosting, and a generous sprinkle of flaky sea salt, this cake is a true masterpiece. It's guaranteed to be a hit at any gathering or special occasion.
Main Ingredients: Cake Flour, Baking Powder, Baking Soda, Salt
The addition of salted caramel takes this already-perfect Southern caramel cake to a whole new level. The saltiness balances out the sweetness of the caramel and adds a depth of flavor that will leave you wanting more. Don't be surprised if you find yourself making this cake on a regular basis.
10of 18
Caramel Pecan Pie
Main Ingredients: Refrigerated Piecrusts, Caramels, Butter, Water, Sugar
For a twist on the traditional Southern caramel cake, try this recipe for a caramel pecan pie. It combines the gooey goodness of caramel with the crunch of pecans in a flaky pie crust. It's a delicious alternative that will have you rethinking what a Southern dessert can be.
For those who want an authentic Southern caramel cake experience, this recipe is the real deal. It uses simple, high-quality ingredients to create a cake that is rich, moist, and bursting with caramel flavor. It's a classic recipe that will become a staple in your dessert repertoire.
12of 18
Caramel Cake
Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Baking Powder, Baking Soda, Salt
This straightforward recipe for caramel cake is a great option for beginners or those who want a no-fuss dessert. It uses a boxed cake mix for the base and a homemade caramel sauce for the frosting, making it a quick and easy option for satisfying your sweet tooth.
This recipe takes the traditional Southern caramel cake and elevates it with the addition of cinnamon and nutmeg in the cake batter. The result is a warm and comforting cake that is perfect for fall or winter. Serve it with a hot cup of coffee for the ultimate Southern dessert experience.
14of 18
Southern Mini Peach Cobbler
Main Ingredients: Refrigerated Pie Crusts, Peaches, Caramel Sauce
Peach cobbler is a classic Southern dessert, and this recipe puts a unique spin on it by turning it into individual-sized portions. The addition of caramel sauce adds a rich and decadent element that pairs perfectly with the juicy peaches. These mini cobblers are perfect for entertaining or just treating yourself to a special dessert.
15of 18
Southern Pound Cake (Classic Pound Cake 101)
Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Baking Powder, Salt, Unsalted
If you're a fan of pound cake, you'll love this recipe for a classic Southern version. With its dense, buttery texture and rich caramel flavor, it's everything you could want in a dessert. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate indulgence.
16of 18
Salted Caramel Cake
Main Ingredients: White Cake Mix, Caramel Sauce, Vanilla Frosting, Sour
This recipe takes the classic Southern caramel cake and adds a modern twist with the addition of salted caramel. The result is a cake that is equal parts sweet and savory, with a perfect balance of flavors. It's a must-try for anyone who loves caramel and isn't afraid to try something new.
17of 18
Moist Caramel Cake
Main Ingredients: Caramel, Unsalted Butter, Eggs, Self Raising Flour
One of the keys to a successful caramel cake is achieving the perfect level of moisture in the cake layers. This recipe nails it with its combination of buttermilk and oil, creating a cake that is moist and tender with a rich caramel flavor. It's a simple and foolproof recipe that will have you coming back for seconds.
18of 18
Is This Caramel Cake with Pecans the Perfect Southern...
Main Ingredients: Sugar, Water, Heavy Cream, Unsalted Butter, Pure
With its layers of yellow cake, caramel sauce, and chopped pecans, this recipe just might be the perfect Southern caramel cake. The pecans add a crunchy texture and nutty flavor that perfectly complements the sweetness of the caramel. Try it for yourself and see if you agree.
Making the Perfect Cake Layers
Moist and Fluffy
To start, preheat your oven to 350 degrees and prepare three 9-inch round cake pans by greasing them with butter and dusting with flour. The key to a perfect caramel cake is achieving moist and fluffy layers, and the secret lies in the ingredients. Instead of using regular granulated sugar, opt for confectioner's sugar for a lighter, fluffier texture. Additionally, be sure to use buttermilk instead of regular milk, as the acidity in buttermilk helps to activate the baking powder and creates a more tender crumb.
Adding the Caramel Flavor
While the cake layers are baking, it's time to infuse them with that signature caramel flavor. The key is to create a homemade caramel syrup by melting together butter, brown sugar, and heavy cream. Once the layers are out of the oven and cooled, poke holes in them with a toothpick and generously brush the syrup over each layer. This will not only add flavor but also keep the cake layers moist and prevent them from drying out.
Making the Creamy Caramel Frosting
Butter is Key
The frosting is the heart of any cake, and for a southern caramel cake, it's all about the butter. Use unsalted butter for a smooth and creamy texture, and be sure to let it come to room temperature before using. This will ensure that the butter is well incorporated and won't leave chunks in your frosting. For an extra caramel flavor, you can also brown the butter before using it in the frosting.
Adding the Finishing Touches
Once your buttercream is whipped to perfection, it's time to add the final touches to your caramel cake. Generously spread the frosting between each layer and on the top and sides of the cake. For an extra touch of decadence, you can also drizzle some of the homemade caramel syrup over the top of the cake. If you want to get creative, you can also top the cake with some chopped pecans, a staple in southern cuisine.
By following these simple steps, you can create a homemade southern caramel cake that will have everyone asking for the recipe. So next time you have a special occasion or just a craving for something sweet, whip up this delicious dessert and transport yourself to the heart of the south.