Indulge in the rich and decadent flavors of this Southern Caramel Cake, featuring layers of moist yellow cake paired with a luscious homemade caramel icing. Perfect for any special occasion or simply as a delightful treat!

**Ingredients:**

*For the Cake:*

- 2 cups + 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting cake pans)

- 1/4 teaspoon salt

- 2 cups sugar

- 2 sticks (1 cup) unsalted butter

- 1 cup water

- 1 teaspoon baking soda

- 1/2 cup milk

- 2 large eggs

- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

*For the Caramel Icing:*

- 3 cups granulated sugar

- 1 stick (1/2 cup) butter

- 1 cup heavy cream

- Pinch of salt

- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the Cake:**

   - Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Butter and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.

   - In a large bowl, sift together 2 cups + 2 tablespoons of flour and salt. Add sugar and whisk until combined.

   - In a saucepan, combine the butter and water. Bring to a boil, then whisk in the flour mixture until smooth.

   - Remove from heat and stir in the baking soda, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract until well blended and smooth.

   - Pour the batter into the prepared cake pans.

   - Bake for 20-25 minutes, checking after 15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Be careful not to overbake.

   - Remove from the oven and let the cakes cool in the pans on a wire rack for 15 minutes. Then, transfer the layers to parchment-lined racks to cool completely.

2. **Make the Caramel Icing:**

   - In a large saucepan, combine 2½ cups of sugar, butter, heavy cream, and a pinch of salt. Cook over medium heat until almost boiling. Pour the syrup into another pan.

   - In a small saucepan, melt half a cup of sugar over medium heat until it turns amber, shaking the pan occasionally to distribute the sugar.

   - Pour the sugar syrup into the pan with the other syrup. Cook over medium to medium-high heat, stirring constantly, until it reaches softball stage (about 232°F on a candy thermometer).

   - Remove from heat, stir in the vanilla extract, and let cool for 15 minutes.

   - Transfer the mixture to a stand mixer and beat on medium speed for 15-20 minutes, or until the consistency is like ice cream. Add a little cream if the frosting becomes too thick.

3. **Assemble the Cake:**

   - Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a layer of caramel icing on top. Repeat with the second layer.

   - Spread the remaining icing over the top and sides of the cake.

   - Slice, serve, and enjoy the rich and indulgent flavors of this Southern Caramel Cake!

Indulge in the deliciousness of this classic Southern treat, and savor each bite of moist cake and creamy caramel icing. Perfect for sharing with loved ones on any special occasion or as a delightful dessert anytime!