Caramel Cake Squares
Sweet and rich caramel cake squares feature buttery cake and crunchy pecans, perfect for satisfying dessert cravings or sharing at gatherings with friends and family.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Grease a 9 x 13-inch pan and a smaller pan.
- Dust the pans with confectioners sugar.
- Prepare the cake mix as the package directs.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pans.
- Bake for 20 minutes or until done.
- Cool in the pans.
- Increase oven temperature to 400°F.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter instead of margarine. If you don't have light brown sugar, dark brown sugar can be a good substitute, adding a deeper molasses flavor. To ensure a moist cake, avoid overbaking; check for doneness a few minutes early. For a twist, add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness. Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
Serving Suggestions
These caramel cake squares are perfect for gatherings and can be served alongside a cup of coffee or tea. They pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. Consider serving them with a side of fruit, like fresh berries, for a delightful contrast. They also make a wonderful addition to dessert platters at potlucks or parties, alongside treats like Old-Fashioned Buttermilk Rolls.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover caramel cake squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, warm individual squares in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds until just warmed through, preserving their soft texture. You can also serve them cold for a refreshing treat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Caramel Cake Squares contains roughly 1563 calories, with 1g protein, 113g carbohydrates, and 125g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of cake mix for this recipe?
Yes, you can experiment with other flavors of cake mix, such as vanilla or chocolate. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will change, so adjust the vanilla flavoring accordingly. Additionally, adding complementary ingredients like chocolate chips or different nuts can enhance the overall taste.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make caramel cake squares gluten-free, substitute the Duncan Hines butter cake mix with a gluten-free cake mix. Also, use a gluten-free flour blend in place of the all-purpose flour in the recipe. Ensure that all other ingredients, including the vanilla flavoring and brown sugar, are gluten-free as well.
What should I do if my cake is too dry?
If your cake turns out dry, it may have been overbaked. To prevent this in the future, start checking for doneness a few minutes before the recommended time. If you've already baked it and it’s dry, consider serving it with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a scoop of ice cream to add moisture and flavor.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).