Moist Caramel Vanilla Cake

Name: Moist Caramel Vanilla Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 ½ cups granulated sugar; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup milk; 3 large eggs; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ cup caramel sauce; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 cups powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 tablespoons caramel sauce for drizzling

Highlighted under: Heavenly Dessert Creations

I absolutely love baking, and this Moist Caramel Vanilla Cake is one of my all-time favorite creations. The combination of rich caramel and fragrant vanilla is simply irresistible. When I first experimented with this recipe, I discovered that the key to achieving that moist texture lies in not overmixing the batter and using room temperature ingredients. Every bite of this cake is a delightful treat that makes any occasion special, whether it's a gathering with friends or a cozy evening at home.

Created by

Tom

Last updated on 2026-02-09T16:37:27.180Z

When I first decided to create a cake that featured both caramel and vanilla, I wanted it to be incredibly moist and flavorful. After several trials, I perfected the recipe by incorporating a homemade caramel sauce into the batter and using real vanilla extract. The result is a cake that not only tastes divine but also has a beautiful, rich color that makes it visually appealing.

The trick I learned while baking this cake was to let it cool completely before frosting. This ensures that the frosting sets beautifully without sliding off. Additionally, using a cream cheese frosting adds a nice tangy contrast to the sweetness of the cake. I always make sure to share this cake with friends and family, and the compliments never stop!

Why You'll Love This Cake
Rich caramel flavor that perfectly complements the vanilla
Moist and tender crumb that stays deliciously fresh over time
Beautifully decorated, making it a showstopper for any event

Understanding the Ingredients

Each ingredient in this Moist Caramel Vanilla Cake plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect texture and flavor. For example, using unsalted butter not only helps in controlling the overall saltiness but also contributes to the cake's rich flavor profile. The eggs are essential for providing structure and moisture; room temperature eggs will blend more easily into the mixture, ensuring a smooth batter with minimal air pockets.

Granulated sugar is not just a sweetener; it also aids in the leavening process when creamed with butter, creating that light and fluffy cake texture we all love. If you're looking to reduce sugar, consider using half the amount of granulated sugar and replacing it with a sugar substitute that measures cup-for-cup.

Mastering the Baking Process

The baking time is key to ensuring your cake doesn't come out dry. It’s advisable to start checking for doneness a few minutes before the suggested time; a toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Keep in mind that oven temperatures can vary, so understanding your own oven's quirks will help you achieve the best results.

Letting the cake cool completely before frosting is crucial; this prevents the frosting from melting and losing its structure. If you’re in a rush, you can place the cake in the fridge for about 30 minutes after it has cooled to room temperature. This will firm it up slightly and make frosting easier.

Ingredients

Cake

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup milk
3 large eggs
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon salt
½ cup caramel sauce

Frosting

8 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons caramel sauce for drizzling

Instructions

Prepare the Cake Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined. Finally, fold in the caramel sauce carefully.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into a greased 9x13 inch cake pan. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely.

Make the Frosting

In a medium bowl, beat together the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Mix until fluffy and well combined.

Frost the Cake

Once the cake is completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. Drizzle additional caramel sauce on top for decoration.

Pro Tips

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for a smoother batter. You can also use store-bought caramel sauce if you're short on time.

Variations to Try

If you're feeling adventurous, consider adding a layer of banana or chocolate to the batter for an extra flavor twist. A mashed banana can add moisture and a subtle sweetness that tastes amazing with the caramel and vanilla. Alternatively, adding cocoa powder can give your cake a delightful chocolatey richness without overpowering the original flavors.

For a more festive touch, you might sprinkle some chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, on top of the frosting for added texture and crunch. This not only enhances the presentation but also adds an exciting element to each bite.

Storing and Serving Tips

To keep your cake moist after baking, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to prolong its life, you can freeze the cake for up to three months. Just make sure to frost it after thawing to keep the frosting looking fresh and appealing.

When serving, consider pairing the cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to balance the rich caramel flavor. A side of fresh fruit, such as sliced strawberries or a berry compote, can also complement the cake beautifully and add a refreshing contrast to the sweetness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different flavor of frosting?

Absolutely! You can substitute cream cheese frosting with buttercream or ganache for a different flavor profile.

→ How should I store the cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

→ Can I freeze the cake?

Yes, you can freeze the cake without frosting for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap it well.

→ What can I use instead of all-purpose flour?

You can use a gluten-free flour blend as a substitute, but this may slightly alter the texture.