If you’re in the mood for a slice of pure Southern sweetness, look no further than this Classic Southern Caramel Cake recipe. Perfect for sharing with friends and family, this indulgent treat captures the heart and soul of Southern baking. Don your apron, gather your ingredients, and let’s embark on a journey to create a cake that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) butter
• 2 cups sugar
• 4 eggs
• 3 cups self-rising flour
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 2 teaspoons vanilla

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees. Grease three 9-inch cake pans and optionally line them with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, beat the butter until light and fluffy. Add the sugar and continue beating for about 5 more minutes.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
4. Alternate adding the flour and buttermilk to the mixture, starting and ending with the flour. Mix well after each addition.
5. Stir in the vanilla and beat the mixture until smooth.
6. Divide the batter among the prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cakes are set.
7. Allow the cakes to cool completely on racks.

Southern Caramel Frosting:

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

Instructions:

1. In a 3-4 quart cast iron dutch oven, combine all frosting ingredients.
2. Swirl the pan to keep the ingredients moving. Cook until reaching the softball stage (235º – 245º) on a candy thermometer or when tested in a cup of cold water.
3. Remove from heat and beat with a wooden spoon until creamy and ready to spread.

No thermometer? Try the cold water test:

• Drop a bit of caramel into a bowl of cold water.
• Let it cool for a few seconds.
• Retrieve the caramel and attempt to form a little ball. If successful, it’s ready. If not, continue boiling until the desired consistency is reached.

Now, as your kitchen fills with the delightful aroma of caramel, take pride in your creation. Once the cakes are cooled, generously frost them with the Southern Caramel Icing. Your Classic Southern Caramel Cake is ready to be enjoyed. Share a slice with loved ones and savor the taste of Southern tradition!

Bonus Recipe: Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak

There’s nothing quite like the savory aroma of a home-cooked meal wafting through your kitchen, especially when it involves classic comfort food. In this easy-to-follow recipe, we’ll guide you through the steps of creating mouthwatering Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak. Gather your ingredients, and let’s embark on a culinary journey that promises both simplicity and deliciousness.

Ingredients:

For the Patties:

• 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup minced onion
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 clove garlic, crushed
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper

For the Gravy:

• 1 small onion, sliced
• 6 ounces mushrooms, sliced
• 1 1/2 cups beef broth
• 1 package brown gravy mix
• 1 tablespoon ketchup (optional)
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch

Directions:

1. Begin by mixing all the patty ingredients together and forming small patties approximately 3/4 inch thick.
2. Create a cozy bed of sliced onions and mushrooms in the slow cooker.
3. In a skillet, brown the steak patties on both sides. For an extra burst of flavor, we recommend this step, although you can place the raw patties directly into the slow cooker if you’re pressed for time.
4. Place the browned patties on top of the onions and mushrooms in the slow cooker.
5. Mix all the remaining ingredients (except cornstarch) to create a delectable sauce, then pour it over the meat and vegetables. Cover and let it simmer on low for 5 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and intensify.
6. After 5 hours, remove the patties. Turn the slow cooker to high, whisk in the cornstarch, and let the magic happen as the sauce thickens.
7. Return the patties to the slow cooker, allowing them to soak up the rich sauce before serving.

Total Time: 5 hours 15 minutes
Calories per Serving: 520 kcal (Servings: 4)

Indulge in this culinary creation that marries simplicity with incredible taste. Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak is not just a meal; it’s a comforting experience that brings the heart of your kitchen to life. Enjoy!