Old School Caramel Cake Recipe A Timeless Dessert DelightCaramel cake is a beloved classic that has been passed down through generations, a treat that many remember fondly from family gatherings and special occasions. Its rich, buttery flavor and velvety caramel frosting make it a standout dessert that’s both simple and indulgent. If you’ve ever craved a slice of this nostalgic dessert or are looking for a way to bring a bit of old-fashioned charm to your kitchen, this old school caramel cake recipe is for you. Let’s dive into the steps and ingredients that will help you recreate this timeless dessert at home.
What Makes Old School Caramel Cake Special?
The charm of an old school caramel cake lies in its simplicity. Unlike modern cakes that are often filled with intricate decorations or elaborate frosting techniques, this cake focuses on the core elements rich caramel flavor, soft cake layers, and a velvety texture. It’s the type of cake that brings comfort and satisfaction with every bite. What sets this version apart is the traditional approach to caramel – it’s made from scratch using sugar, butter, and cream, which creates a deep, golden sweetness that is truly unforgettable.
Ingredients for Old School Caramel Cake
To make the perfect old school caramel cake, you’ll need some basic ingredients that come together to create a deliciously sweet, moist cake. Here’s what you’ll need for the cake and frosting
For the Cake
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2 cups all-purpose flour
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1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1/2 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
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1 cup granulated sugar
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2 large eggs
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1 cup buttermilk
For the Caramel Frosting
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1/2 cup unsalted butter
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1 cup brown sugar (packed)
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1/4 cup heavy cream
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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2 cups powdered sugar (sifted)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your own old school caramel cake that’s sure to be a hit.
Step 1 Prepare the Cake Batter
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing and flouring two 9-inch round cake pans. This ensures your cake will come out easily after baking.
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set this mixture aside.
In a separate large bowl, cream together the butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer. Beat until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. This step is crucial for creating a light texture in the cake.
Next, add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk. Start with a small amount of the flour mixture, then add some buttermilk, and continue alternating until all the ingredients are combined. Mix until just incorporated, being careful not to overmix.
Step 2 Bake the Cake
Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans. Use a spatula to smooth the tops, ensuring they are level.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes 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 cakes are cooling, start preparing the caramel frosting. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once the butter has melted, add the brown sugar and stir constantly until the sugar has dissolved, and the mixture is smooth.
Next, add the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir to combine, then bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Let it simmer for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally. The caramel sauce will thicken as it cooks.
Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the caramel cool slightly for about 5-10 minutes. Once it’s cool enough to handle but still pourable, gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, stirring until the frosting is smooth and fluffy. You can adjust the amount of powdered sugar to achieve your desired consistency – if you want a thicker frosting, add more sugar.
Step 4 Frost the Cake
Once the cakes have completely cooled, place one layer of cake on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a generous amount of caramel frosting on top of the first layer. Place the second layer of cake on top and frost the top and sides of the entire cake with the remaining caramel frosting.
To make the frosting more decorative, you can use a spatula to create a swirl pattern on the top of the cake.
Step 5 Let the Cake Set
Allow the cake to sit for about 30 minutes to an hour before serving. This will give the frosting time to firm up slightly and allow the flavors to meld together.
Tips for the Perfect Old School Caramel Cake
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Use Room Temperature Ingredients For the best texture, make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature before you begin. This helps the ingredients combine more easily and results in a smoother batter.
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Don’t Overmix the Batter Once the flour mixture is added, mix just until the ingredients are incorporated. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake.
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Make Sure the Cakes are Fully Cooled It’s crucial that your cakes are completely cool before frosting. If the cakes are too warm, the frosting may melt and slide off.
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Adjust Frosting Consistency If your frosting is too runny, add more powdered sugar to thicken it. If it’s too thick, you can add a small amount of milk or heavy cream to loosen it up.
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Chill the Frosting for a Firmer Texture If you prefer a firmer frosting, place the bowl with frosting in the refrigerator for a few minutes before applying it to the cake.
Why This Recipe is a Classic
This old school caramel cake recipe brings together all the best elements of a traditional cake. The tender, moist cake layers provide the perfect base for the rich, sweet caramel frosting, creating a satisfying contrast of textures. The use of brown sugar in the frosting enhances the caramel flavor, giving it a depth that’s both comforting and indulgent.
Caramel cake has been a staple in Southern kitchens for generations, often served at celebrations or as a special dessert for family dinners. It’s a cake that evokes a sense of nostalgia and warmth, reminding us of simpler times when baking was a labor of love and a way to bring people together.
The old school caramel cake recipe is a true gem, one that’s perfect for any occasion where you want to impress with a homemade dessert. Its simplicity and rich flavor profile make it a crowd-pleaser, and it’s sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or just craving something sweet, this cake will bring joy to your kitchen and to those who enjoy it. Happy baking!