Decadent Caramel Cake: A 5-Star Dessert for Every Occasion

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Looking for a showstopping dessert that’s sure to impress? This Caramel Cake is the answer! With its moist, fluffy layers and rich homemade caramel frosting, it’s the perfect treat for birthdays, holidays, or any sweet craving. One bite of this indulgent cake, and you’ll be hooked. Let’s dive into this irresistible recipe!

A close-up view of a beautifully layered caramel cake, drizzled with glossy caramel frosting and garnished with a sprinkle of sea salt. The warm lighting highlights the cake’s golden layers and rich texture.

Ingredients and Preparation Steps

What You’ll Need:

For the Cake:

  • 3 cups white sugar
  • 1 ½ cups butter
  • 5 large eggs
  • 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • ½ tsp baking powder
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • 1 ¼ cups whole milk
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Caramel Frosting:

  • 1 (16 oz) package brown sugar
  • 1 cup butter
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • ⅔ cup evaporated milk
  • 1 (16 oz) package confectioners’ sugar, sifted
  • 2 tsp pure vanilla extract

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

A close-up view of three 9-inch cake pans, greased and floured, ready for the batter. The soft kitchen lighting highlights the preparation process.

First, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch cake pans. This ensures the cakes bake evenly and release easily from the pans.

Step 2: Mix the Cake Batter

A close-up view of white sugar and butter being creamed together in a mixing bowl until light and fluffy. The golden mixture looks smooth and airy.

Next, beat white sugar and butter in a mixing bowl until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This creates a rich, velvety batter.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

A close-up view of flour, baking powder, and salt being combined in a separate bowl. The dry ingredients are sifted together, creating a fine, even mixture.

After, combine flour, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl. Add to the butter mixture in batches, alternating with milk. Mix until smooth, then stir in vanilla extract.

Step 4: Bake the Cake Layers

A close-up view of the cake batter being evenly divided into the prepared pans. The golden batter glistens under soft kitchen lighting.

Then, divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans. Bake for 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Cool in the pans for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 5: Make the Caramel Frosting

A close-up view of brown sugar, butter, and salt melting in a saucepan, creating a rich caramel base. The mixture bubbles gently, releasing a sweet aroma.

For the frosting, combine brown sugar, butter, and salt in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat until the sugar dissolves, about 3 minutes.

Step 6: Add Evaporated Milk

A close-up view of evaporated milk being poured into the caramel mixture, creating a smooth, glossy frosting base. The steam rises gently, filling the kitchen with a sweet scent.

Add evaporated milk and bring to a gentle boil, stirring constantly for 4 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool for 5 minutes.

Step 7: Finish the Frosting

A close-up view of confectioners' sugar and vanilla extract being beaten into the caramel mixture, creating a thick, glossy frosting. The texture is smooth and spreadable.

Finally, beat in confectioners’ sugar and vanilla extract until the frosting thickens. Spread between layers and over the top and sides of the cooled cake. Pro tip: Drizzle extra frosting over each slice for an extra caramel kick!

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Serving Caramel Cake

The Best Time to Savor Your Caramel Cake

There’s no better time to enjoy a slice of Caramel Cake than during a celebration or a cozy family gathering. The rich, buttery layers and decadent caramel frosting make it perfect for birthdays, holidays, or even a simple weekend treat. Pair it with a cup of coffee or a glass of milk for the ultimate indulgence. For more dessert inspiration, check out our Pumpkin Cheesecake or Pistachio Torte.

Frequently Asked Questions About Caramel Cake

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes! You can bake the cake layers a day in advance and store them wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature. Make the frosting and assemble the cake the day of serving for the best results.

Can I use store-bought caramel frosting?

While homemade caramel frosting is recommended for its rich flavor, you can use store-bought frosting if you’re short on time. Look for a high-quality brand for the best taste.

How do I store leftover cake?

Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days. Bring to room temperature before serving.

Can I freeze caramel cake?

Absolutely! Wrap the unfrosted cake layers tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before frosting and serving.

Caramel Cake

Caramel Cake

Prep Time
40 minutes

Cook Time
40 minutes

Servings
12

Category
Comfort food

This decadent caramel cake is a showstopper! With its moist, fluffy layers and rich homemade caramel frosting, it’s the perfect dessert for any occasion. One bite, and you’ll be hooked!

Ingredient

For the Cake:

  • 3 cups white sugar
  • 1 ½ cups butter
  • 5 large eggs
  • 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • ½ tsp baking powder
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • 1 ¼ cups whole milk
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Caramel Frosting:

  • 1 (16 oz) package brown sugar
  • 1 cup butter
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • ⅔ cup evaporated milk
  • 1 (16 oz) package confectioners’ sugar, sifted
  • 2 tsp pure vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. First, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch cake pans.
  2. Next, beat white sugar and butter in a mixing bowl until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
  3. After, combine flour, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl. Add to the butter mixture in batches, alternating with milk. Mix until smooth, then stir in vanilla extract.
  4. Then, divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans. Bake for 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Cool in the pans for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
  5. For the frosting, combine brown sugar, butter, and salt in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat until the sugar dissolves, about 3 minutes.
  6. Add evaporated milk and bring to a gentle boil, stirring constantly for 4 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool for 5 minutes.
  7. Finally, beat in confectioners’ sugar and vanilla extract until the frosting thickens. Spread between layers and over the top and sides of the cooled cake.

Nutrition Information

  • Calories: 1019
  • Fat: 43g
  • Carbs: 155g
  • Protein: 9g

Pro Tips

For an extra caramel kick, drizzle extra frosting over each slice before serving!

Pro Tips for Perfect Caramel Cake

Want to take your caramel cake to the next level? These expert tips will help you achieve the best results every time:

  1. Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature before starting. This helps create a smooth, even batter.
  2. Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter just until the ingredients are combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake.
  3. Cool Completely: Let the cake layers cool completely before frosting. Warm layers can cause the frosting to melt and slide off.
  4. Level the Layers: Use a serrated knife to level the tops of the cake layers for a professional, even finish.
  5. Add a Crumb Coat: Apply a thin layer of frosting (crumb coat) to seal in crumbs before adding the final layer of frosting. This ensures a clean, polished look.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Got leftovers? Here’s how to store and serve your caramel cake to keep it fresh and delicious:

  • Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days. Bring to room temperature before serving.
  • Freezing: Wrap unfrosted cake layers tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before frosting and serving.
  • Reheating: If the cake has been refrigerated, let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving to restore its soft texture.

Perfect Pairings for Caramel Cake

Complete your dessert spread with these delicious pairings:

  • Whipped Cream: Serve with a dollop of freshly whipped cream for a light, creamy contrast to the rich caramel flavors.
  • Vanilla Ice Cream: Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic dessert combination. Try our Eggnog Pie for another festive treat.
  • Caramel Sauce: Drizzle extra caramel sauce over each slice for an indulgent touch. Check out our Pumpkin Cheesecake for more dessert ideas.
  • Hot Beverages: Enjoy with a cup of coffee, tea, or our Pumpkin Spice Latte for a cozy treat.

There’s nothing quite like the joy of slicing into a beautifully layered caramel cake and savoring its rich, buttery flavors. Whether it’s for a special occasion or just because, this cake is sure to bring smiles to everyone at the table. Don’t forget to snap a photo of your masterpiece and share it with us in the comments below! We’d love to hear how your caramel cake turned out.

For a creative twist, try adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the frosting for a sweet-and-salty contrast. You can also experiment with different fillings, like toasted pecans or a layer of caramelized bananas, to make the cake your own. If you’re hosting a larger crowd, consider making a double batch—this cake disappears fast!

We hope you enjoy baking and sharing this caramel cake as much as we do. Don’t forget to tag us on social media with #CaramelCake and #BakingLove so we can see your delicious creations! For more decadent dessert ideas, subscribe to our newsletter and get exclusive recipes delivered straight to your inbox.

Happy baking!

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