Southern-Style Moist Caramel Cake – Rich, Buttery & Perfectly Sweet!
This Southern-Style Caramel Cake is a dreamy dessert with ultra-moist vanilla brown sugar cake layers and a luscious caramel frosting that’s deep in flavor without being overly sweet. Perfect for special occasions or a comforting treat, this cake balances rich caramel notes with a tender, buttery crumb for an unforgettable bite every time!
Prep Time:
30 minutes
Cook Time:
45 minutes
Calories:
Approximately 600 kcal per serving
ingredients
For the Cake Layers
2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
¼ cup (30g) cornstarch
2½ teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon salt (omit if using salted butter)
¾ cup (170g) unsalted butter, room temperature
¼ cup (55g) vegetable oil (like canola)
1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
½ cup (100g) light brown sugar, packed
3 large eggs, room temperature
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
½ cup (120g) sour cream, room temperature
½ cup (120ml) whole milk, room temperature
For the Caramel Frosting
¾ cup (170g) unsalted butter, room temperature
1½ cups (300g) granulated sugar
2 cups (510g) evaporated milk (about 1½ cans)
¼ teaspoon salt (omit if using salted butter)
⅓ cup (80ml) heavy cream, room temperature
1½ teaspoons vanilla extract
Directions
Step 1: Bake the Cake Layers
Preheat oven to 320°F (160°C) with the fan on (or 350°F/175°C without a fan). Grease and line two 8-inch cake pans with parchment paper.
Sift together flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt. Whisk to combine and set aside.
Cream butter, oil, and sugars with an electric mixer for 2 minutes until light and fluffy.
Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Then mix in vanilla and sour cream.
Alternate adding dry ingredients and milk: Fold in half the flour mixture, then the milk, then the remaining flour. Do not overmix.
Divide batter evenly into the pans. Bake for 28–30 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool in pans for 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
Step 2: Make the Caramel Frosting
Simmer butter, sugar, evaporated milk, and salt in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly until melted.
Reduce heat to low-medium and cook for 1 hour, stirring occasionally, until thickened and deep golden brown.
Remove from heat and stir in cream and vanilla. Let cool for 25 minutes—it should be slightly runny for easy spreading.
Step 3: Assemble the Cake
Level cooled cake layers with a serrated knife.
Spread frosting between layers, over the top, and along the sides. Smooth with an offset spatula.
Let set for 30 minutes before slicing. The frosting will become shiny and firm.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do I prevent my caramel frosting from burning?
Cook it on low-medium heat and stir frequently, especially as it thickens. A heavy-bottomed pan helps distribute heat evenly .
2. Can I use buttermilk instead of sour cream?
Yes! Buttermilk or plain yogurt can replace sour cream for similar moisture and tang .
3. Why is my caramel frosting too thin?
Let it cool longer—it thickens as it sits. If still runny, return to the stove to reduce further .
4. How long does this cake last?
Store at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerate for up to 1 week in an airtight container .
5. Can I freeze caramel cake?
Yes! Wrap layers tightly and freeze for 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before frosting .
Tools You'll Need
8-inch cake pans (2)
Parchment paper
Electric mixer (stand or hand)
Heavy-bottomed saucepan
Offset spatula
Wire cooling rack
Tips
✔ Room-temperature ingredients ensure a smooth batter and frosting.
✔ Don’t overmix the batter—fold just until combined for a tender crumb.
✔ Low and slow for caramel: Rushing the frosting risks burning or graininess.
✔ Warm frosting spreads easier: If it thickens too much, gently reheat with a splash of cream.
✔ Garnish creatively: Add sea salt flakes or toasted pecans for extra flair.
Allergy Information
Contains: Dairy (butter, milk, cream), eggs, gluten (flour).
Dairy-free option: Use plant-based butter and coconut milk.
Gluten-free: Substitute with a 1:1 GF flour blend.
Conclusion
This Southern-Style Caramel Cake is a labor of love that pays off with every decadent bite. The moist, vanilla-kissed layers paired with that slow-cooked caramel frosting are pure magic—worth every minute of patience. Whether it’s for a holiday table or a weekend baking project, this cake is sure to impress.
We’d love to see your creations! Share your slices with us online or savor them with loved ones. Happy baking, y’all!
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