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Overview of Southern Caramel Cake Recipe

Take a look at this video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gxvVr2EUEj4&embed=true

As a chef who has been making cakes for years, I can confidently say that Southern Caramel Cake is one of the best cakes out there. It’s a classic dessert that has been passed down through generations of Southern families. This traditional caramel cake is the perfect combination of moist, fluffy cake layers and rich, buttery caramel frosting.

To make an authentic Southern Caramel Cake, you need to start with a good recipe. There are many variations out there, but the best caramel cake recipe will use simple ingredients and traditional techniques. The cake itself is typically a yellow cake, but with a twist – we add rum extract to the batter to give it a bit more caramel-y flavor on its own.

The real star of the show, however, is the Caramel Frosting. This is what takes a simple yellow cake and transforms it into a decadent caramel cake. The frosting is made with granulated sugar and evaporated milk to create the luscious flavor of true caramel icing. Don’t opt for a quick brown sugar butterscotch method, which is a caramel frosting substitution and not the same thing!

To make the best caramel cake, it’s important to follow the recipe carefully. This cake is all about technique, so take your time and don’t rush the process. It’s worth the effort, I promise! The end result will be a rich, moist cake with a caramel flavor that’s out of this world.

In conclusion, if you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert that’s sure to impress, you can’t go wrong with Southern Caramel Cake. It’s a classic recipe that’s stood the test of time for a reason – it’s simply delicious!

Ingredients Required

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XL0hAyKu7aE&embed=true

To make a delicious Southern Caramel Cake, you will need a few key ingredients. These include:

• Sugar: You’ll need both granulated and brown sugar for this recipe. The granulated sugar is used in the cake batter, while the brown sugar is used in the caramel icing.

• Butter: You’ll need both salted and unsalted butter for this recipe. The salted butter is used in the cake batter, while the unsalted butter is used in the caramel icing.

• Eggs: This recipe calls for large eggs.

• Flour: You’ll need all-purpose flour for the cake batter and cake flour for the caramel icing.

• Vanilla: Vanilla extract is used in both the cake batter and caramel icing.

• Salt: You’ll need both kosher salt and regular salt for this recipe.

• Baking Powder: This is used in the cake batter.

• Buttermilk: This is used in the cake batter.

• Parchment Paper: This is used to line the cake pans.

• Evaporated Milk: This is used in the caramel icing.

• Sour Cream: This is used in the cake batter.

• Baking Soda: This is used in the caramel icing.

• Whole Milk: This is used in the caramel icing.

• Powdered Sugar: This is used in the caramel icing.

• Heavy Cream: This is used in the caramel icing.

• Water: This is used in the caramel icing.

• Half-and-Half: This is used in the caramel icing.

• Vegetable Oil: This is used to grease the cake pans.

These ingredients come together to create a rich, moist cake with a decadent caramel icing.

Special Tools Required

When it comes to making a delicious Southern caramel cake, having the right tools can make all the difference. Here are some of the special tools you will need to make the perfect caramel cake:

Cake Pans

To make a classic Southern caramel cake, you will need two 9-inch cake pans. I prefer using non-stick cake pans to ensure that the cakes come out easily and cleanly.

Stand Mixer

A stand mixer is a must-have tool for making the cake batter. While you can use a hand mixer, a stand mixer makes the process much easier and more efficient. It also ensures that the batter is well-mixed and smooth.

Pot

You will need a pot to make the caramel icing. Make sure to use a heavy-bottomed pot to prevent the caramel from burning.

Saucepan

You will also need a saucepan to heat up the milk for the caramel icing. Make sure to use a small saucepan to prevent the milk from scorching.

Candy Thermometer

A candy thermometer is essential for making the caramel icing. It will help you monitor the temperature of the caramel and ensure that it reaches the perfect consistency.

Offset Spatula

An offset spatula is great for spreading the caramel icing evenly on the cake layers. It also helps to create a smooth finish.

Cake Stand

To showcase your beautiful caramel cake, you will need a cake stand. Choose a stand that complements your cake and makes it look even more delicious.

Refrigerator

Once you have finished decorating your caramel cake, you will need to store it in the refrigerator to keep it fresh.

Airtight Container

If you have any leftover cake, store it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out. This will also help to preserve the flavor and texture of the cake.

With these special tools, you will be well-equipped to make a delicious Southern caramel cake that will impress your friends and family.

Preparation of Cake Layers

To make the perfect Southern Caramel Cake, you need to start with the perfect cake layers. I always use a classic yellow cake recipe as the base for my layers. It’s important to use room temperature ingredients for the cake batter, especially the butter and eggs. This will ensure that the cake is fluffy, moist, and tender with a fine crumb.

To make the cake layers, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and grease and flour two 9-inch cake pans. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together 2 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. In a separate mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of unsalted butter and 2 cups of granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add in 4 large eggs, one at a time, and beat until fully incorporated. Mix in 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with 1 cup of whole milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter as this can cause the cake to be tough.

Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans and smooth the tops with a spatula. Tap the pans gently on the counter to release any air bubbles and create an even texture. Bake the cakes for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Remove the cakes from the oven and allow them to cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then, turn them out onto wire racks to cool completely before frosting. It’s important to let the cake layers cool completely to room temperature before frosting them to prevent the frosting from melting or sliding off the cake.

With these simple steps, you can create the perfect cake layers for your Southern Caramel Cake.

Preparation of Caramel Icing

I absolutely love the taste of caramel icing on my cakes, and I always make my own homemade caramel icing. It’s a combination of sugar, butter, and cream, simmered low and slow until it reaches the soft ball stage. This high sugar content is what gives the icing its signature caramel flavor.

To make the icing, I start by melting butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Then, I add in the sugar and stir until it dissolves. Next, I pour in the cream and bring the mixture to a simmer. I let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it reaches the soft ball stage. This is when a small amount of the mixture dropped into cold water forms a soft ball that can be flattened with your fingers.

Once the icing reaches the soft ball stage, I remove it from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes. Then, I pour it over the cooled cake layers and spread it evenly with a spatula. The icing will set as it cools, creating a delicious glaze on top of the cake.

One thing to keep in mind when making caramel icing is that it can be a bit finicky. It’s important to simmer the mixture low and slow to prevent it from burning or becoming too hard. But with a little patience and practice, you’ll be able to make the perfect caramel icing every time.

Overall, homemade caramel icing is a delicious and decadent addition to any cake. Its rich flavor and soft texture make it the perfect complement to a fluffy cake.

Assembly of the Cake

Now that we have baked the cake layers and made the caramel frosting, it’s time to assemble the cake. Here are the steps I follow to ensure a perfectly put-together cake.

First, I place one cake layer on a cake stand. If the top of the cake layer is domed, I use a serrated knife to level it off. Then, I use an offset spatula to spread a layer of caramel frosting on top of the cake layer. I make sure to spread the frosting all the way to the edges.

Next, I place the second cake layer on top of the frosting. Again, if the top of the cake layer is domed, I level it off with a serrated knife. I then spread another layer of caramel frosting on top of the second cake layer.

Once the cake is assembled, I like to refrigerate it for at least an hour to let the frosting set. This makes it easier to add the final layer of frosting without any crumbs getting mixed in.

After the cake has chilled, I take it out of the refrigerator and spread a final layer of caramel frosting on top and around the sides of the cake. I use the offset spatula to smooth out the frosting and create a clean finish.

Finally, I store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator until it’s ready to be served. This cake can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator overnight. Just be sure to bring it to room temperature before serving.

With these simple steps, you’ll have a beautiful and delicious Southern caramel cake that’s sure to impress your guests.

Storing the Cake

Once you have made your delicious Southern Caramel Cake, you may be wondering how to store it properly. Proper storage will ensure that your cake stays fresh and delicious for as long as possible.

The best way to store your cake is in an airtight container at room temperature. This will keep your cake fresh for up to 5 days. If you need to store your cake for longer than 5 days, you can put it in the refrigerator.

If you do store your cake in the refrigerator, make sure to bring it to room temperature before serving. This will ensure that the cake is soft and moist, just like it was when you first made it.

It’s important to note that if you store your cake in the refrigerator, it may dry out more quickly than if you store it at room temperature. So if you can, try to store your cake in an airtight container at room temperature.

Overall, storing your Southern Caramel Cake is simple and easy. Just make sure to keep it in an airtight container and at room temperature for the best results.

Nutritional Information

As a chef, I always like to provide my customers with as much information as possible about the food they are consuming. So, for those who are health-conscious or have dietary restrictions, here is the nutritional information for Southern Caramel Cake.

First and foremost, it’s important to note that this cake is not exactly a low-calorie dessert option. One slice of this delicious cake contains around 500-600 calories, depending on the recipe and serving size. This is due to the high sugar and fat content in both the cake and the caramel icing.

In terms of fat, one slice of Southern Caramel Cake can contain up to 20-30 grams of fat, depending on the recipe. This is mainly due to the butter used in the cake batter and the caramel icing. However, it’s worth noting that not all fats are created equal, and the butter used in this cake can provide some essential nutrients such as vitamin A and vitamin D.

As for protein, Southern Caramel Cake is not a significant source of this macronutrient. One slice of cake typically contains only 3-4 grams of protein, which is not a lot when compared to other protein-rich desserts or snacks.

In conclusion, Southern Caramel Cake is a delicious dessert option that should be enjoyed in moderation. While it’s not the healthiest option out there, it’s important to indulge in your favorite treats from time to time. Just be mindful of your portion sizes and enjoy this sweet treat as a special treat.

Taste and Texture Profile

When it comes to Southern Caramel Cake, the taste and texture are what make it stand out from other cakes. The cake is sweet, but not overwhelmingly so, with a rich caramel flavor that is both satisfying and indulgent. The caramel flavor is achieved by using a homemade caramel icing, which is drizzled over the cake layers and allowed to soak in, creating a moist and flavorful cake.

The cake itself is buttery and dense, with a texture that is both light and airy. The airiness of the cake is achieved by beating the eggs and sugar until they are light and fluffy, which creates a batter that is full of air pockets. This gives the cake a light and airy texture that is perfect for soaking up the caramel icing.

The combination of the sweet caramel flavor and the light and airy texture of the cake is what makes Southern Caramel Cake so irresistible. It’s the perfect dessert for any occasion, whether you’re celebrating a special event or just looking for a sweet treat to enjoy with friends and family.

Overall, the taste and texture of Southern Caramel Cake are what make it so special. It’s a dessert that is both indulgent and satisfying, with a rich caramel flavor and a light and airy texture that is sure to please. If you haven’t tried it yet, I highly recommend giving it a try. You won’t be disappointed!

Special Occasions for the Cake

Whenever I think of Southern Caramel Cake, I think of special occasions. This cake is not your everyday dessert. It’s something you make for Thanksgiving, Christmas, birthdays, or any other special occasion where you want to impress your guests with a show-stopping dessert.

Growing up in the South, I remember my grandmother making this cake every year for Thanksgiving and Christmas. It was always the highlight of the meal, and everyone would save room for a slice. Even now, as a professional chef, I still make this cake for special occasions, and it always gets rave reviews.

One thing I love about this cake is that it’s so versatile. You can dress it up or down depending on the occasion. For Thanksgiving or Christmas, I like to decorate it with sugared cranberries and rosemary sprigs. For a birthday, I might add some colorful sprinkles or edible glitter.

Another great thing about this cake is that it’s easy to transport. If you’re going to a potluck or a family gathering, you can bake the cake in advance and transport it in a cake carrier. Just be sure to keep it cool and out of direct sunlight.

Overall, Southern Caramel Cake is the perfect dessert for any special occasion. It’s rich, decadent, and sure to impress your guests. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner baker, this cake is easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.

Related Southern Desserts

When it comes to Southern desserts, there are so many delicious options to choose from. While caramel cake is always a crowd-pleaser, there are a few other desserts that I love to make when I’m in the mood for something sweet and indulgent.

One of my favorites is cream cheese pound cake. This rich, buttery cake is made with cream cheese and has a dense, moist texture that’s perfect with a cup of coffee or tea. It’s also incredibly versatile and can be served with fresh fruit, whipped cream, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce.

Another classic Southern dessert is peach cobbler. Made with fresh, juicy peaches and a sweet, buttery topping, this dessert is perfect for summer gatherings or cozy nights at home. I love to serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

If you’re in the mood for something a little more indulgent, try making a sour cream pound cake. This rich, buttery cake is made with tangy sour cream and has a tender crumb that just melts in your mouth. It’s perfect for special occasions or just when you want to treat yourself to something sweet.

Of course, no list of Southern desserts would be complete without mentioning homemade caramel cake. This classic cake is made with layers of moist yellow cake and rich, creamy caramel frosting. It’s a labor of love to make, but the end result is absolutely worth it.

If you’re looking for something a little different, try making a caramel spice cake. This delicious cake is made with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg and is topped with a rich, caramel glaze. It’s perfect for fall gatherings or just when you’re in the mood for something cozy and comforting.

No matter which Southern dessert you choose to make, one thing is for sure: it’s sure to be a hit with your friends and family. So why not whip up one of these delicious treats today and share it with the people you love?