If you have a sweet tooth and a love for nostalgic desserts, this Classic Southern Caramel Cake Recipe is a must-try that will quickly become one of your all-time favorites. It’s everything you want in a cake – rich, moist layers of tender vanilla perfection enveloped by a luscious, buttery caramel icing that oozes with Southern charm. This cake brings together simple ingredients you likely have on hand and transforms them into an indulgent treat that tastes like sunshine and comfort in every bite. Let me take you through the steps of creating this iconic cake that’s cherished for its perfectly balanced sweetness and unforgettable homemade caramel glaze.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A close-up view inside a silver metal pot shows a creamy yellow liquid with a smooth, thick texture. The liquid surface has small bubbles and gentle swirls, creating a soft foam around the edges. The pot is placed on a black stovetop against a white marbled surface background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

To bring this Classic Southern Caramel Cake Recipe to life, you’ll gather some pantry staples that are straightforward but crucial to achieving that perfect texture and flavor. Every ingredient plays a vital role, from the fluffiness of the cake to the silky richness of the caramel glaze.

Unsalted butter (1 cup/224g): Using room temperature butter ensures a creamy batter and smooth caramel icing.
Sugar (3 cups + 2 cups): Granulated sugar adds sweetness and helps create a tender cake crumb and glossy caramel.
Eggs (7 large): Eggs provide structure and richness, giving the cake its light, stable lift.
Cake flour (3 cups/390g): Sifted to keep the cake soft and delicate, perfect for this southern classic.
Salt (1 tsp + pinch): Just a touch of salt enhances all the flavors, balancing the sweetness beautifully.
Baking powder (1/2 tsp) and baking soda (1/2 tsp): These leavening agents make sure the cake rises with a tender crumb.
Sour cream (1 cup/230g): Adds moisture and a subtle tang, enriching the cake’s texture.
Vegetable oil (1/2 cup/120ml): Keeps the cake moist and soft, even after baking.
Vanilla extract (1 tbsp + 1 tbsp): Offers that warm, inviting aroma and depth of flavor.
Evaporated milk (2 cans/12-ounce each): The secret to the caramel glaze’s creamy smooth consistency.

How to Make Classic Southern Caramel Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Vanilla Cake Layers

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F and lining three 9-inch cake pans with parchment rounds, then greasing the sides for easy removal. Cream room temperature butter with sugar until it’s light and fluffy; this aeration is key for a tender cake crumb. Add eggs one by one for better incorporation and a silky batter.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients and Combine

Gently fold sifted cake flour, salt, baking powder, and baking soda into the wet mixture using a low-speed mixer, careful to avoid overmixing. This protects the cake’s delicate texture. Next, fold in sour cream, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract, which work together to keep your cake moist and flavorful.

Step 3: Bake the Cake Layers

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for approximately 27 to 32 minutes. The cake is done when a toothpick inserted comes out with just a few crumbs attached. Allow the layers to cool in the pans briefly, then transfer them to wire racks to cool completely, preparing them for the luscious caramel icing.

Step 4: Craft the Irresistible Caramel Icing

This part takes a bit of patience but is undeniably worth every minute. Melt evaporated milk, sugar, butter, and a pinch of salt over medium-low heat, watching carefully as the mixture goes through several phases. It will bubble, thicken, and eventually turn a gorgeous amber caramel hue. Stir occasionally as it thickens to ensure a velvety, smooth glaze that sets the flavor apart from any other cake.

Step 5: Assemble and Ice the Cake

Once the caramel has cooled and thickened to a spreadable consistency, begin layering. Spread about one-third of the caramel on the first layer, then add the second layer and repeat. The final layer goes on bottom side up, iced with a thin caramel layer to seal in moisture. Pour the remaining caramel over the entire cake, allowing it to drizzle naturally down the sides—a show-stopping finish that looks as divine as it tastes.

How to Serve Classic Southern Caramel Cake Recipe

A slice of three-layer yellow cake with smooth light brown caramel frosting between each layer and covering the outside sits on a white plate with a delicate cut-out pattern along the edge. The cake layers look soft and moist with a fine crumb texture, while the caramel frosting is shiny and creamy. There is a fork with a wooden handle next to the slice, and the background shows the rest of the cake on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

While the cake is stunning on its own, simple garnishes like chopped pecans or toasted coconut sprinkle beautifully over the top, adding a delightful crunch and enhancing that Southern flair.

Side Dishes

Pair this dessert with freshly brewed coffee, sweet tea, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a southern-style celebration. Fresh berries or a lightly whipped cream can provide a fresh counterpoint to all the caramel richness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning presentation, drizzle extra caramel onto individual plates before serving slices or plate with edible flowers to add an elegant touch. You can also serve this cake at a tea party or holiday feast for a comforting, nostalgic centerpiece.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Classic Southern Caramel Cake Recipe covered in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to keep the caramel from stiffening too much. After that, refrigeration helps maintain freshness but may firm the caramel.

Freezing

This cake freezes beautifully if wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil, perfect for making ahead of celebrations. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and allow it to come to room temperature before serving for best texture.

Reheating

To enjoy remnants of this cake warm, pop a slice in the microwave for about 15 seconds. The caramel softens slightly, making each bite decadently gooey and heavenly.

FAQs

Can I make this caramel cake without sour cream?

Sour cream adds moisture and tenderness, but if you don’t have it, you can substitute with plain yogurt or buttermilk, although the texture may be slightly less rich.

How long does it take to cook the caramel icing?

The caramel process takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes in total over four phases, allowing it to develop that deep amber color and perfect thickness without burning.

Is this cake freezer-friendly?

Yes! Wrap the fully cooled and assembled cake tightly before freezing. It stays great for up to two months and is a fantastic make-ahead dessert option.

Can I use regular milk instead of evaporated milk for the caramel?

Evaporated milk is essential here for the caramel’s creamy texture and slightly caramelized flavor. Using regular milk will result in a thinner glaze that lacks depth.

What’s the best way to slice this sticky caramel cake?

Use a sharp serrated knife, wiping it clean between slices. Chilling the cake briefly before slicing also prevents sticking and helps maintain neat layers.

Final Thoughts

There is something so comforting about a Classic Southern Caramel Cake Recipe that feels like a warm hug from the past, complete with the perfect balance of sweetness and rich, buttery caramel. I encourage you to try making this heavenly cake – your family and friends will thank you for bringing a little slice of Southern tradition to the table. Once you have it, I’m sure it will become a beloved staple in your dessert rotation just as it has in countless Southern kitchens.