Decadent Caramel Cake 🍰✨
Indulge in the rich and luscious flavors of this Decadent Caramel Cake! With layers of moist vanilla cake drizzled with homemade caramel sauce and topped with a creamy caramel frosting, this dessert is a showstopper for any occasion. Perfect for celebrations or a special treat at home!
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 cup whole milk
For the Caramel Sauce:
1 cup granulated sugar
6 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
A pinch of salt
For the Frosting:
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
1/2 cup caramel sauce (plus more for drizzling)
2-3 tablespoons milk (as needed)
Instructions:
Prepare the Cake:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. Add in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined.
Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops. 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.
Make the Caramel Sauce:
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the sugar until it turns a golden amber color, swirling the pan gently to prevent burning. Once melted, add the butter and stir until melted and combined. Slowly drizzle in the heavy cream while stirring continuously (the mixture may bubble vigorously). Add the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Let the sauce cool slightly.
Prepare the Frosting:
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until well combined. Add the caramel sauce and mix until fluffy. If needed, add milk a tablespoon at a time until the desired consistency is reached.
Assemble the Cake:
Place one layer of cake on a serving plate. Drizzle with caramel sauce and spread a layer of frosting on top. Repeat with the second layer. Top with the third layer, then frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining caramel frosting.
Serve and Enjoy:
Drizzle additional caramel sauce over the top for an extra touch. Slice and serve this decadent delight to your family and friends!