Classic Southern Caramel Cake

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Indulge in the rich and decadent flavors of a Classic Southern Caramel Cake. This traditional recipe features a moist, buttery cake paired with a luscious caramel frosting. Perfect for any celebration or special occasion, this cake is sure to impress!

Ingredients:

Cake:

  • 1 cup butter (2 sticks)
  • 2 cups sugar
  • 4 eggs
  • 3 cups self-rising flour
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla

Southern Caramel Frosting:

  • 2 cups sugar
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • ½ cup Crisco
  • ½ cup butter
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda

Directions:

Cake:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Prepare three 9-inch cake pans by greasing them and optionally lining with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, beat the butter until light and fluffy. Add sugar and beat for an additional 5 minutes.
  3. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
  4. Alternately add the self-rising flour and buttermilk, beginning and ending with flour, and mix well after each addition.
  5. Add vanilla and beat well.
  6. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans.
  7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  8. Turn the cakes out onto cooling racks and allow to cool completely.

Southern Caramel Frosting:

  1. In a 3-4 quart cast iron Dutch oven, mix all ingredients: sugar, buttermilk, Crisco, butter, and baking soda.
  2. Swirl the pan to keep the ingredients moving. Cook until the mixture reaches the softball stage (235°F – 245°F) on a candy thermometer or passes the cold water test.
  3. Remove from heat and beat with a wooden spoon until creamy and ready to spread.

Cold Water Test for Caramel:

  1. Drop a small amount of caramel into a bowl or cup of cold water.
  2. Allow it to cool for a few seconds, then retrieve the caramel and try to form a small ball.
  3. If it forms a gooey mess that cannot be shaped into a ball, continue boiling the caramel as it still has too much water and the sugar concentration is too low. The caramel may form little threads, but it should be able to form a ball once it’s ready.

Serving and Storage Tips:

Serving Tips:

  1. Temperature: Serve the cake at room temperature for the best flavor and texture. Allow it to sit out for about 30 minutes if it has been refrigerated.
  2. Garnish: Enhance the presentation by garnishing with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of sea salt over the frosting.
  3. Accompaniments: Pair the cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.
  4. Slicing: Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water to make clean, smooth cuts when slicing the cake. Wipe the knife clean between cuts for the best results.
  5. Serving Plates: Serve on decorative plates to elevate the presentation, especially for special occasions or gatherings.
  6. Portion Control: Due to its rich flavor, small slices are usually sufficient. This way, guests can enjoy without feeling overwhelmed.

Storage Tips :

  1. Room Temperature: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Ensure it’s kept in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat.
  2. Refrigeration: For longer storage, place the cake in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5 days. Allow it to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.
  3. Freezing: To freeze, wrap individual slices or the whole cake in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag. The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bring to room temperature before serving.
  4. Prevent Drying: To keep the cake moist, place a piece of wax paper or parchment paper over the exposed cut edges before sealing the container.
  5. Transporting: When transporting the cake, secure it in a cake carrier or box to prevent damage and keep it fresh.
  6. Freshness: For the freshest taste, consume the cake within a few days of baking. If the caramel frosting becomes too firm, lightly warm slices in the microwave for a few seconds to soften.

By following these serving and storage tips, you can ensure that your Classic Southern Caramel Cake remains delicious and enjoyable from the first slice to the last!

Variations:

1. Nutty Caramel Cake:

  • Add 1 cup of finely chopped pecans or walnuts to the cake batter for a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.

2. Coconut Caramel Cake:

  • Mix 1 cup of shredded coconut into the batter. Toast additional coconut to sprinkle over the caramel frosting for added texture and flavor.

3. Chocolate Caramel Cake:

  • Substitute ½ cup of the flour with unsweetened cocoa powder to create a rich chocolate version of the cake. You can also add a layer of chocolate ganache between the cake layers for extra decadence.

4. Salted Caramel Cake:

  • Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over the caramel frosting to create a delicious contrast of sweet and salty flavors.

5. Spiced Caramel Cake:

  • Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, ½ teaspoon of nutmeg, and ¼ teaspoon of cloves to the cake batter for a warm, spiced variation that’s perfect for fall.

6. Caramel Apple Cake:

  • Fold in 1 cup of finely chopped, peeled apples into the batter. This will add a fresh, fruity twist to the classic caramel cake.

7. Cream Cheese Caramel Cake:

  • Prepare a cream cheese frosting and use it as a filling between the cake layers. Top the cake with the traditional caramel frosting for a rich and creamy combination.

8. Banana Caramel Cake:

  • Mash 2 ripe bananas and add them to the batter for a moist, banana-flavored twist. You can also top with caramelized banana slices.

9. Lemon Caramel Cake:

  • Add 2 tablespoons of lemon zest to the cake batter and a teaspoon of lemon juice to the caramel frosting for a bright, citrusy variation.

10. Espresso Caramel Cake:

  • Dissolve 1 tablespoon of instant espresso powder in the buttermilk before adding it to the batter. This will create a delicious coffee-infused caramel cake.

FAQs:

1. Can I make this cake gluten-free?

  • Yes, you can substitute the self-rising flour with a gluten-free self-rising flour blend. Ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

2. Can I use a different type of sugar for the frosting?

  • While white sugar is traditional, you can use brown sugar for a deeper, molasses-like flavor. The texture might be slightly different, but it will still be delicious.

3. How can I store leftover cake?

  • Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze the cake for up to 3 months.

4. Can I make the cake ahead of time?

  • Yes, you can bake the cake layers a day in advance and store them in an airtight container. Frost the cake on the day you plan to serve it for the best texture.

5. What can I use instead of buttermilk?

  • If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to 1 cup of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.

6. How do I know when the caramel is ready?

  • The caramel is ready when it reaches the softball stage (235°F – 245°F) on a candy thermometer. Alternatively, you can perform the cold water test as described in the recipe.

7. Can I use margarine instead of butter?

  • Butter is recommended for the best flavor and texture, but you can use margarine if needed. The taste and consistency might vary slightly.

8. Can I add other flavors to the caramel frosting?

  • Yes, you can experiment with adding a splash of vanilla extract, a pinch of cinnamon, or even a bit of bourbon to the caramel frosting for additional flavor.

9. What kind of pan should I use for the frosting?

  • A cast iron dutch oven is recommended for making the caramel frosting, as it retains heat well and helps achieve the desired consistency.

10. Can I use this recipe to make cupcakes?

  • Yes, you can adapt this recipe to make cupcakes. Adjust the baking time to 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Frost each cupcake with the caramel frosting once they have cooled.

This Classic Southern Caramel Cake is a delightful, timeless dessert that combines rich, buttery layers with a luscious caramel frosting. Perfect for any occasion, this cake is sure to impress with its sweet and comforting flavors. Enjoy this traditional treat with family and friends, and savor the classic taste of Southern baking at its finest.