🍰 Southern Caramel Layer Cake

Southern Caramel Layer Cake is a beloved classic Southern dessert featuring soft vanilla cake layers covered with a rich, old-fashioned caramel frosting. The signature caramel icing is cooked until golden and creamy, then spread over the cake for a sweet, buttery finish.

6

Prep Time

• Prep: 40 minutes
• Bake: 25–30 minutes
• Frosting: 25 minutes
• Total: About 1½–2 hours

Servings

12–16 slices

Ingredients

Vanilla Cake Layers

• 3 cups (375 g) all-purpose flour
• 2½ teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (226 g) unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups (400 g) granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs, room temperature
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup (240 ml) whole milk
• ½ cup (120 ml) sour cream or buttermilk

Old-Fashioned Caramel Frosting

• 2 cups (400 g) granulated sugar
• 1 cup (220 g) packed brown sugar
• 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream or evaporated milk
• ¾ cup (170 g) unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon salt

Instructions

1. Bake the Cake Layers

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease and flour three 8-inch cake pans and line bottoms with parchment.
3. Whisk flour, baking powder, and salt together.
4. Beat butter and sugar for 3–4 minutes until light and fluffy.
5. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla.
6. Add flour mixture alternately with milk and sour cream, beginning and ending with flour.
7. Divide batter evenly among pans.
8. Bake for 25–30 minutes, until a toothpick comes out clean.
9. Cool completely before frosting.

2. Make the Caramel Frosting

1. In a heavy saucepan, combine granulated sugar, brown sugar, cream, butter, and salt.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring often, until the mixture reaches about 235°F (113°C) or soft-ball stage.
3. Remove from heat and add vanilla.
4. Let cool for 5–10 minutes.
5. Beat the frosting with a mixer or wooden spoon until it thickens and becomes spreadable.

3. Assemble the Cake

1. Place one cake layer on a serving plate.
2. Spread a layer of caramel frosting over the top.
3. Repeat with remaining layers.
4. Cover the top and sides with the remaining caramel frosting.
5. Allow the cake to set before slicing.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with hot coffee or sweet tea.
• Add toasted pecans between layers for a Southern twist.
• Pair with vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent dessert.

Storage

• Room Temperature: Covered for up to 3 days.
• Refrigerator: Up to 5 days.
• Bring to room temperature before serving for the softest texture.

Tips for Perfect Southern Caramel Cake

• Use a heavy-bottom saucepan to prevent the caramel from scorching.
• Do not rush the frosting—proper cooking temperature creates the classic texture.
• Frost the cake while the caramel is still warm enough to spread but not hot.
• For the deepest flavor, use a mix of light and dark brown sugar in the frosting.