If you’re craving a dessert that’s rich, moist, and irresistibly sweet, look no further than this perfect caramel cake recipe. Whether it’s for a special occasion or a simple treat at home, this homemade caramel cake is guaranteed to impress. With buttery layers, a melt-in-your-mouth texture, and the perfect balance of sweetness, it’s a cake that’s sure to become your new favorite.
Moist and Fluffy: Each bite is soft, tender, and full of flavor.
Sweet and Rich Caramel: The homemade caramel frosting is a perfect complement to the cake’s delicate texture.
Homemade Goodness: Made from scratch with simple ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen.
Perfect for Any Occasion: This cake is a crowd-pleaser at birthdays, holidays, or family gatherings.
Ingredients for the Perfect Caramel Cake
To make this cake as moist, sweet & homemade as possible, you’ll need these simple ingredients:
For the Cake:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 large eggs
1 cup whole milk
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 ½ tsp baking powder
½ tsp salt
For the Caramel Frosting:
1 cup brown sugar
½ cup unsalted butter
½ cup heavy cream
1 tsp vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
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How to Make the Perfect Caramel Cake – Moist, Sweet & Homemade
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Beat until well combined.
Step 2: Bake the Cake Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 3: Prepare the Caramel Frosting While the cake cools, make the caramel frosting. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the brown sugar and bring to a simmer. Stir constantly for about 3-4 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.
Reduce the heat and stir in the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Let the frosting simmer for another 2-3 minutes, then remove from heat. Let it cool to room temperature before using it to frost your cake.
Step 4: Assemble and Frost Once the cakes have cooled completely, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of caramel frosting over the top. Add the second cake layer and frost the top and sides of the entire cake with the remaining frosting. Let the frosting set before serving.
Tips for the Perfect Caramel Cake
Don’t Overmix: Be careful not to overmix your batter, as this can make the cake dense. Mix until just combined.
Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature before starting to ensure smooth batter.
Customize the Frosting: If you prefer a thicker or thinner frosting, adjust the amount of cream used in the recipe. You can also add a pinch of sea salt for a salted caramel variation.
Why This Caramel Cake is the Best
This cake is the perfect balance of moist and fluffy, paired with the perfect amount of sweetness from the rich, caramel frosting. Whether you’re baking for a special event or just want a comforting homemade treat, this moist, sweet & homemade caramel cake will not disappoint.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time? A: Yes! You can bake the cake a day or two in advance and store it in an airtight container. Frost it on the day you plan to serve.
Q: Can I use store-bought caramel sauce? A: While homemade caramel frosting adds the best flavor, store-bought caramel sauce can be used in a pinch.
Q: How can I make this recipe gluten-free? A: Swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this caramel cake gluten-free. Be sure to use a reliable gluten-free brand for the best texture.
Conclusion
Making the perfect caramel cake – moist, sweet & homemade is easier than you think. With this simple recipe, you can enjoy a decadent dessert that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this caramel cake will always be a hit. Try it today and enjoy the sweet, buttery goodness in every bite!
