Oh boy, do I have a treat for you today! Let me take you on a sugary journey as I share one of my all-time favorite recipes — the delightful *Creamy Caramel Cake*. This cake has a special place in my heart because it never fails to impress at family gatherings and birthdays. I vividly remember the first time I made it; my kitchen was filled with the sweet aroma of caramel, and I felt like a baking wizard conjuring magic.
Every bite of this cake is like a hug from a cozy warm blanket. The creamy caramel frosting pairs perfectly with the moist vanilla cake, and it’s an absolute crowd-pleaser! Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just indulging your sweet tooth, this cake is sure to bring smiles and maybe even some happy tears. So, let’s get baking!
What’s in Creamy Caramel Cake?
All-Purpose Flour: This is the base of our cake, giving it that beautiful structure and fluffiness. I always opt for a good quality brand that I know and trust, like King Arthur Flour.
Sugar: We’ll use granulated sugar for the cake, but don’t worry, the real caramel magic happens later! Sweetness overload is kind of the point here, right?
Baking Powder: This little powerhouse is key for helping our cake rise to airy perfection. Always check the date on the can to ensure it’s fresh!
Salt: Just a pinch of salt enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness beautifully.
Eggs: They’ll add moisture and richness to our cake. I like to use large, free-range eggs for the best flavor.
Milk: I’m all for whole milk when it comes to making cakes. It adds creaminess that simply can’t be beaten!
Butter: Unsalted butter is what I prefer for both the cake and the frosting. It’s vital for that creamy, dreamy texture.
Vanilla Extract: A splash of pure vanilla extract is a must! It adds a warmth and depth that elevates the cake to another realm of deliciousness.
Brown Sugar: This is the star of our caramel frosting. It adds that deep, rich flavor that can only come from brown sugar.
Cream: Heavy cream brings everything together for our frosting, making it smooth and luscious.
Is Creamy Caramel Cake Good for You?
Well, let’s be real—this cake is a treat! But it does come with some perks.
Eggs: They provide a good dose of protein, which is always a plus. Plus, they help the cake rise beautifully!
Butter: Yes, it’s rich, but it also contributes vitamins A and D. Moderation is key, so save this cake for special moments.
Now, on the flip side, consider your sugar intake. With the sugar and cream involved, this cake is definitely not something I make every day. Enjoy it at celebrations or when you need a little pick-me-up!
Ingredients
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
– 2 ½ tsp baking powder
– ½ tsp salt
– 4 large eggs
– 1 cup milk (whole)
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tsp vanilla extract
For the frosting:
– 1 cup brown sugar
– ½ cup heavy cream
– ½ cup unsalted butter
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
*Servings: About 12 slices of pure heaven!*
How to Make Creamy Caramel Cake?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans. Don’t skip this step; no one likes a stuck cake!
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Whisk it all together until evenly mixed.
3. Add in the eggs, milk, softened butter, and vanilla extract. Mix with an electric mixer on medium speed until everything is well combined and smooth.
4. Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans. Give them a little tap on the counter to remove any air bubbles!
5. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Just try not to open the oven door too often to keep that heat inside!
6. While the cakes are baking, let’s whip up that creamy caramel frosting. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the brown sugar, heavy cream, and butter. Stir continuously until the mixture comes to a boil.
7. Let the caramel boil for about 2 minutes without stirring, then remove it from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Allow it to cool completely before using it as frosting.
8. Once the cakes are out of the oven and fully cooled, remove them from the pans. Place one layer on a serving plate and spread a generous amount of frosting on top.
9. Place the second layer on top and frost the entire cake with the delicious caramel frosting. Don’t be shy—make it thick!
10. For a finishing touch, you can drizzle some extra caramel on top or even sprinkle some sea salt for that salted caramel vibe!
Sweet Tips for Your Creamy Caramel Cake
– Consider adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the batter for an exciting twist.
– You can also turn this into cupcakes! Just adjust your baking time to around 18-20 minutes.
– Don’t forget to save a slice for yourself! Trust me, you’ll want to enjoy the fruits of your labor.
I hope this *Creamy Caramel Cake* brings as much joy to your kitchen as it has in mine! Don’t forget to share your baking adventures and let me know how your cake turns out. Happy baking, my friend!
