The Irresistible Charm of Caramel Cake: A Sweet Delight

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch (23cm) cake pans.
  2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  3. In another bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy (3–4 minutes).
  4. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each. Stir in vanilla extract.
  5. Alternate adding flour mixture and buttermilk, mixing until just combined.
  6. Divide batter evenly between the pans and bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
  7. Let cakes cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

Step 2: Make the Caramel Frosting

  1. In a saucepan, heat sugar over medium heat until it melts and turns a deep amber color (6–8 minutes).
  2. Carefully whisk in heavy cream (it will bubble up!).
  3. Stir in butter, salt, and vanilla, then remove from heat.
  4. Let cool for 10 minutes, then mix in powdered sugar until smooth.

Step 3: Assemble the Cake

  1. Place one cake layer on a plate and spread a generous layer of caramel frosting.
  2. Add the second cake layer and pour the remaining caramel frosting over the top.
  3. Let set for 10–15 minutes, then slice and serve.

Serving and Storage Tips

🍰 Best served slightly warm or at room temperature.
🍰 Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days.
🍰 Freeze cake layers for up to 2 months (wrap tightly).


Variants

  1. Salted Caramel Cake – Add an extra sprinkle of sea salt for a salted caramel twist.
  2. Caramel Pecan Cake – Fold chopped pecans into the frosting for crunch.
  3. Chocolate Caramel Cake – Drizzle with melted chocolate for a richer flavor.
  4. Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting – Mix cream cheese into the frosting for a tangy contrast.
  5. Caramel Drip Cake – Frost with buttercream and drizzle warm caramel on top.

FAQ

1. Why is my caramel frosting grainy?

✔ Ensure sugar is fully melted before adding cream.
✔ Stir constantly to prevent crystallization.

2. Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?

Yes! Just mix with powdered sugar for a thicker frosting.

3. How do I make my cake extra moist?

✔ Use buttermilk and room-temperature ingredients.
✔ Avoid overmixing the batter.

4. Can I make this into cupcakes?

Absolutely! Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 18–20 minutes.

5. What’s the best way to cut a caramel cake cleanly?

Use a sharp, warm knife and wipe between slices.


Final Thoughts

Caramel cake is a rich, comforting, and utterly delicious dessert that never goes out of style. Whether for a special occasion or a simple treat, its buttery layers and smooth caramel frosting will always be a crowd-pleaser.

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