Brown Sugar Caramel Pound Cake Recipe

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Brown Sugar Caramel Pound Cake is the kind of dessert that feels like a warm hug from your favorite Southern grandma. Rich, moist, and wrapped in a buttery caramel glaze, this cake isn’t just baked—it’s loved into existence. It starts with the nutty sweetness of brown sugar and gets elevated by a velvety, creamy topping that clings to every slice like a decadent secret.

Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or a cozy weekend treat, this cake is made to impress without needing much fuss. The texture is dense and soft, almost melt-in-your-mouth tender, while the flavor leans deeply into caramel and buttery vanilla notes. It’s the kind of dessert that leaves people asking for the recipe before their plate’s even empty.

Why You’ll Love This Brown Sugar Caramel Pound Cake

If you adore desserts that are unapologetically rich, this one’s for you. Every bite delivers that golden, slow-cooked flavor of brown sugar, balanced with a whisper of cinnamon and a deep caramel finish. It slices beautifully and holds its shape, making it ideal for entertaining. But truthfully, it’s just as perfect for curling up with a cup of coffee and a thick slice all to yourself.

Unlike traditional pound cakes that can feel too plain, this version adds flair with its caramel glaze and depth from the brown sugar base. The cake is both nostalgic and unique—comfort food elevated.

What Kind of Pan Should I Use for Pound Cake?

A classic Bundt pan is the go-to for this recipe. The ridged curves not only make for a beautiful presentation, but they also help distribute heat evenly, giving you that golden crust and moist interior we all crave in a pound cake. If you don’t have a Bundt pan, a tube pan or two standard loaf pans will also do the job. Just make sure to generously grease and flour your pan, because this cake deserves a smooth release every time.

Ingredients for the Brown Sugar Caramel Pound Cake

This cake is all about cozy, caramel-rich flavor, and the ingredients reflect just that. Each component works together to bring out the cake’s moist, sweet, and slightly nutty charm. There’s nothing complicated here, just pantry staples used in the most delicious way.

• Unsalted butter
• Light brown sugar
• Granulated sugar
• Eggs
• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Salt
• Whole milk
• Vanilla extract
• Chopped pecans (optional)
• Caramel sauce (for the glaze)
• Heavy cream (for the glaze)
• Powdered sugar (for the glaze)

The unsalted butter adds richness and helps create that soft, dense pound cake crumb. Light brown sugar is the heart of the cake, bringing deep, caramel-like sweetness that’s both rich and mellow. A bit of granulated sugar adds structure and balances the molasses notes.

Eggs provide stability and help with the texture, while all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt give the cake its lift and balance. Whole milk ensures a moist crumb, and vanilla extract pulls all the warm flavors together.

For added texture and a Southern twist, chopped pecans are a delicious bonus. The caramel glaze made from caramel sauce, heavy cream, and powdered sugar is the indulgent final touch that makes this cake unforgettable.

How To Make the Brown Sugar Caramel Pound Cake

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, beat the unsalted butter until creamy. Add the light brown sugar and granulated sugar, and continue beating until the mixture is light and fluffy. This is key to creating a tender crumb.

Step 2: Add the Eggs

Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This helps to emulsify the batter and keep it smooth.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the flour.

Step 4: Add Vanilla and Pecans

Stir in the vanilla extract and, if using, fold in the chopped pecans. Be careful not to overmix at this stage.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into a well-greased and floured Bundt pan. Bake at 325°F (163°C) for about 75 to 85 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Make the Caramel Glaze

While the cake is cooling, combine caramel sauce, heavy cream, and powdered sugar in a saucepan over low heat. Stir until smooth and warmed through.

Step 7: Glaze and Serve

Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then invert onto a wire rack. Drizzle with warm caramel glaze and let it set slightly before serving. Slice thick and enjoy every sweet, buttery bite.

How to Serve and Store This Caramel Pound Cake

This cake is perfect for feeding a crowd—it serves about 12 to 16 slices depending on how generous you are. Each slice stands beautifully on its own, no whipped cream or ice cream needed (though no one’s stopping you). Serve it warm if you want the glaze to melt a bit into the cake, or let it fully cool for a firm yet tender bite.

To store leftovers, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It will keep at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for about a week. You can also freeze individual slices for up to 2 months—just wrap each one in foil and place in a zip-top bag. Thaw at room temperature and warm slightly for that fresh-baked feel.

What to Serve With Brown Sugar Caramel Pound Cake?

Coffee or Espresso

A strong cup of coffee or a bold shot of espresso cuts through the richness of the cake and enhances the deep brown sugar flavor.

Vanilla Ice Cream

If you’re feeling indulgent, a scoop of vanilla ice cream turns this into a restaurant-style dessert.

Apple Compote

The tartness of cooked apples balances the sweet notes of the caramel and gives a lovely seasonal contrast.

Fresh Berries

A side of raspberries or strawberries adds brightness and color to your plate, plus a juicy bite to complement the dense cake.

Whipped Cream with Sea Salt

A dollop of barely sweet whipped cream with a pinch of sea salt brings creamy contrast and a surprising depth.

Warmed Maple Syrup

Drizzling a little maple syrup over a slice amplifies the caramel and brown sugar elements in a subtly smoky way.

Toasted Nuts

Sprinkle chopped toasted pecans or walnuts on top of the glaze for extra texture and nuttiness.

Spiced Chai Tea

Not into coffee? A mug of spiced chai offers warm, cozy spices that match the cake’s comforting profile perfectly.

Want More Cake Ideas with Southern Charm?

If you love this Brown Sugar Caramel Pound Cake, you’ll want to check out these other delicious and unique cake creations from Luna Meals:

• Try the Southern Hummingbird Cake for a tropical blend of bananas, pineapple, and pecans.
• Go for this Gooey Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole when you want sticky-sweet comfort in every bite.
• Make dessert dramatic with this Hot Fudge Brownie Bread—a chocolate lover’s dream.
• If you’re into fun, fruity flavors, the Blueberry Cheesecake Heaven Rolls are like clouds of joy.
• Or stick with a nostalgic twist and try the Easy Banana Cream Pie Recipe for silky texture and old-school vibes.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you drizzle extra caramel on top? Add a scoop of ice cream? Or sneak a slice for breakfast the next day?

I love seeing how you make these recipes your own. Questions welcome too—we’re in this sweet adventure together.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks on Luna Meals on Pinterest and discover your new go-to for feeling great!

Conclusion

Brown Sugar Caramel Pound Cake brings together warmth, richness, and a little indulgence in every slice. With its buttery crumb, golden brown sugar base, and smooth caramel glaze, it’s the kind of dessert that feels like a celebration. Whether you’re hosting, gifting, or simply treating yourself, this cake is guaranteed to sweeten the moment.

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