Indulge in Georgia's Best Kept Secret: The Classic Southern Caramel Cake Recipe

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When it comes to Southern desserts, few can compare to the classic caramel cake. This beloved cake is a staple in many Georgia kitchens, known for its rich, buttery layers and luscious caramel frosting. Perfect for celebrations or just because, the Southern Caramel Cake is a sweet delight that brings a taste of Georgia's heart and soul to your table.

A Taste of Georgia Tradition

Picture this: a soft, fluffy cake with a golden crumb, layered generously with a smooth caramel frosting that melts in your mouth. The caramel cake isn't just a dessert; it's a comforting hug from the South. In Georgia, this cake often appears at family gatherings, church suppers, and holiday feasts, embodying the state's spirit of warmth and hospitality. The combination of the moist, tender cake with the rich, creamy caramel icing makes it a favorite for all who try it.

The Recipe: Georgia's Classic Southern Caramel Cake

Ingredients:

• For the Cake:
• • 1 cup butter (2 sticks)
  • 2 cups sugar
  • 4 eggs
  • 3 cups self-rising flour
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• For the Caramel Frosting:
• • 2 cups sugar
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • ½ cup Crisco
  • ½ cup butter
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cake:
   Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease three 9-inch cake pans, lining them with parchment paper if desired for easy removal. In a large bowl, beat the butter until light and fluffy. Gradually add the sugar, continuing to beat for about 5 minutes, or until the mixture is creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
2. Combine the Ingredients:
   Alternate adding the flour and buttermilk to the mixture, starting and ending with the flour. Make sure to mix well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and beat the batter until it is smooth and well combined.
3. Bake the Cakes:
   Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean. Once baked, let the cakes cool in the pans for a few minutes before turning them out onto wire racks to cool completely.
4. Make the Caramel Frosting:
   While the cakes are cooling, prepare the caramel frosting. In a large 3-4 quart cast iron dutch oven, mix together the sugar, buttermilk, Crisco, butter, and baking soda. Swirl the pan occasionally to keep the ingredients moving and prevent burning. Cook the mixture to the softball stage (235º – 245º on a candy thermometer) or use the cold water test to check for the right consistency. Once the caramel reaches the right stage, remove it from the heat and beat it with a wooden spoon until it becomes creamy and ready to spread.
5. Assemble the Cake:
   Once the cakes are completely cool, generously spread the caramel frosting between the layers and on the top and sides of the cake. Let the cake sit for a few minutes to allow the frosting to set before serving.

A Sweet Ending

The Classic Southern Caramel Cake is more than just a dessert; it's a piece of Georgia's culinary heritage. Each bite offers a perfect balance of soft, buttery cake and rich caramel flavor, making it an irresistible treat for any occasion. Whether you're baking for a special event or just to enjoy a taste of Southern comfort, this cake will bring a touch of Georgia's charm to your kitchen.

To make a delicious Southern Caramel Cake, you can follow this updated recipe inspired by various sources, including Southern Living, House of Nash Eats, Grandbaby Cakes, Insanely Good Recipes, and Southern Food and Fun.

Georgia's Classic Southern Caramel Cake Recipe

Ingredients for the Cake:

• 1 cup butter (2 sticks), softened
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs, at room temperature
• 3 cups self-rising flour
• 1 cup buttermilk, at room temperature
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Ingredients for the Caramel Frosting:

• 2 cups sugar
• 1 cup buttermilk
• ½ cup Crisco
• ½ cup butter
• 1 teaspoon baking soda

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cake Batter: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease three 9-inch round cake pans and line them with parchment paper if desired. Cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, which should take about 5 minutes. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
2. Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients: Alternate adding the self-rising flour and buttermilk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the flour. Mix until just combined. Stir in the vanilla extract.
3. Bake the Cakes: Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then turn them out onto wire racks to cool completely.
4. Prepare the Caramel Frosting: In a large cast-iron Dutch oven, combine the sugar, buttermilk, Crisco, butter, and baking soda. Cook the mixture over medium heat, swirling the pan occasionally, until it reaches the soft-ball stage (235º – 245ºF on a candy thermometer). If you don’t have a candy thermometer, use the cold water test to determine when the caramel is ready. Once it reaches the correct stage, remove from heat and beat with a wooden spoon until the mixture becomes creamy and thick enough to spread.
5. Assemble the Cake: Once the cakes are completely cool, spread a generous layer of caramel frosting between each layer and over the top and sides of the cake. Let the cake sit for a few minutes to allow the frosting to set before slicing and serving.

This Southern Caramel Cake is not just a dessert; it’s a slice of Georgia tradition. The rich, buttery cake layers paired with the decadent caramel frosting create a perfect balance of flavors that is sure to impress at any gathering.

For more details and tips on making the perfect caramel cake, check out the full recipes and instructions from sources like Southern Living​(Southern Living), House of Nash Eats​(House of Nash Eats), Grandbaby Cakes​(Grandbaby Cakes), Insanely Good Recipes​(Insanely Good Recipes), and Southern Food and Fun​(Southern Food and Fun).