Classic Caramel Layer Cake

Dive into the sweet and irresistible world of baking with this Classic Caramel Layer Cake. Perfect for celebrations or a family weekend treat, this cake boasts moist layers of fluffy vanilla sponge, generously filled and topped with a luscious caramel frosting. This recipe is designed to guide you through each step to create a stunning, bakery-quality cake that is as delightful to look at as it is to eat.

Ingredients:

• For the Cake:
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs, room temperature
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • 1 cup whole milk, room temperature
• For the Caramel Frosting:
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
  • 2 cups dark brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream, plus more if needed
  • 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cake Layers:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch cake pans.
   • In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
   • In a large bowl, cream the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in vanilla extract.
   • Alternately add the flour mixture and milk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the flour. Mix until just combined.
   • Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans and smooth the tops. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cakes cool in pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto wire racks to cool completely.
2. Make the Caramel Frosting:
   • In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add brown sugar and heavy cream, stirring until the sugar is dissolved. Increase heat and bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes without stirring.
   • Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Gradually whisk in powdered sugar and vanilla, beating until smooth and reaching a spreading consistency. If the frosting is too thick, add more cream as needed.
3. Assemble the Cake:
   • Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread with a generous layer of caramel frosting. Top with the second layer, more frosting, then the final cake layer.
   • Cover the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting. Use a spatula to create a smooth finish or decorative swirls.
4. Serving:
   • Allow the cake to set slightly in a cool place before slicing. This helps the frosting firm up for neater slices.
   • Serve and enjoy the decadent layers of moist cake and rich caramel that make this dessert a memorable treat for any occasion.

Indulge in the homemade goodness of this classic dessert, where every bite is a blend of soft cake and creamy caramel perfection!

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