INGREDIENTS
For the Cake:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 3 cups cake flour (sifted)
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
For the Caramel Icing:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
- 2 cups packed light brown sugar
- ¾ cup evaporated milk
- Pinch of salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 to 3 cups powdered sugar (sifted)
INSTRUCTIONS
Make the Cake:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together cake flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Add dry ingredients to the creamed mixture alternately with milk, beginning and ending with flour.
- Stir in vanilla extract.
- Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans.
- Bake for 22–28 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let cakes cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
Make the Caramel Icing:
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Stir in brown sugar and cook for 2 minutes.
- Add evaporated milk and bring to a gentle boil. Cook for 3–5 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.
- Let cool slightly, then beat in powdered sugar, a little at a time, until icing reaches spreading consistency.
Assemble the Cake:
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread with caramel icing.
- Add second layer and repeat.
- Top with third layer and ice the top and sides of the cake generously.
- Let sit to allow icing to set and drip slightly for a rustic, luscious look.
Enjoy this rich, buttery Southern classic with a tall glass of milk or coffee! ☕💛
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