Name: Creamy Caramel Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 cups granulated sugar; 4 large eggs; 3 cups cake flour; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup whole milk; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 2 cups brown sugar (for frosting); 1 cup heavy cream (for frosting); 1/2 cup butter (for frosting)

If you’re someone who dreams in layers of soft, buttery cake cloaked in rich, velvety caramel, then this Creamy Caramel Cake will quickly become your new baking obsession. This Southern-inspired classic is all about indulgence—each bite melts in your mouth with a perfect balance of sweetness and warmth, and that luscious caramel frosting is nothing short of magic. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a nostalgic dessert that feels like a warm hug, this cake delivers every single time.

Perfectly golden layers make this a showstopper on any dessert table, but it’s the homemade caramel that steals the spotlight. Unlike many overly sugary frostings, this one has depth—buttery, slightly salty, and deeply flavorful. Pair it with coffee or enjoy it as the grand finale of a family dinner; either way, it never lasts long!

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Caramel Cake

Rich and Moist Texture: The cake layers are tender and buttery, never dry.
Homemade Caramel Frosting: Made from scratch with a deep caramel flavor that coats the cake like silk.
Nostalgic Flavor: A Southern favorite that evokes comforting childhood memories.
Perfect for Celebrations: A beautiful and delicious centerpiece for holidays, birthdays, or potlucks.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Both the cake and frosting can be made in advance, making party prep stress-free.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into your ingredients, make sure your kitchen is ready for smooth sailing. Here’s what you’ll need and why:

Stand Mixer or Hand Mixer: Vital for creaming the butter and sugar until fluffy and smooth—the base of any good cake.
Heavy-Bottomed Saucepan: Essential for making the caramel frosting. It evenly distributes heat, reducing the risk of burning your sugar.
Cake Pans (8-inch or 9-inch, at least 3): To create that iconic layered look. Using identical pans ensures even baking.
Cooling Racks: For resting the cake layers once baked, helping prevent soggy bottoms.
Offset Spatula: Makes frosting those delicate layers much easier and more polished.
Candy Thermometer (optional): If you’re new to caramel, this helps you hit the perfect temperature for creamy consistency.

Ingredients for the Creamy Caramel Cake

Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and creates that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the batter and helps with the cake’s lightness.
Eggs: Provide structure and stability to the layers.
Cake Flour: Keeps the crumb fine and tender.
Baking Powder: Gives the cake its beautiful rise.
Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
Whole Milk: Adds moisture and richness to the batter.
Vanilla Extract: Deepens the flavor profile.
Brown Sugar: The base of our caramel—adds depth and that signature taste.
Heavy Cream: Gives the frosting a luscious, creamy consistency.
Butter (for frosting): Adds richness and smooth texture to the caramel.

How To Make the Creamy Caramel Cake

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar

Using a mixer, beat the unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This aerates the batter, creating that pillowy soft crumb.

Step 2: Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla

Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then pour in vanilla extract for that sweet aromatic base.

Step 3: Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the cake flour, baking powder, and salt. Alternate adding this mixture and the milk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with dry ingredients.

Step 4: Bake the Cake Layers

Divide the batter equally between greased and floured cake pans. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 22–28 minutes. Let cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks.

Step 5: Prepare the Caramel Frosting

In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, melt brown sugar and butter over medium heat. Stir constantly until dissolved. Add heavy cream and bring to a gentle boil. Let simmer for 3–4 minutes, then remove from heat. Let cool until spreadable.

Step 6: Assemble the Cake

Place the first cake layer on your serving plate. Spread a generous amount of caramel frosting. Repeat with remaining layers. Frost the sides and top, smoothing with an offset spatula.

Serving and Storing Your Caramel Cake

Serve slices slightly warm or at room temperature for the best texture. Pair with coffee or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.

To store, cover the cake with a cake dome or wrap tightly in plastic. It will stay fresh at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days. Let it come to room temp before serving.