01 -
Base: Use 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour as the foundation.
02 -
Add 1 cup of white sugar to sweeten things up.
03 -
One tablespoon of cocoa powder gives it a light chocolate touch.
04 -
One teaspoon of baking soda works to make the base fluffy.
05 -
Don't forget 1/2 teaspoon of salt to bring out the flavors.
06 -
Pour in 1 cup of buttermilk (room temperature) for softness.
07 -
Add 1/2 cup of vegetable oil to keep the mixture moist.
08 -
Use 2 large eggs to bind the ingredients together.
09 -
Mix in a tablespoon of red food dye to get that iconic bright red color.
10 -
A teaspoon of vanilla extract gives the cake a delicious aroma.
11 -
One teaspoon of white vinegar helps activate the baking soda.
12 -
Frosting: Use 8 ounces of softened cream cheese for the creamy layer.
13 -
Throw in 1/2 cup of softened unsalted butter for a rich flavor.
14 -
Blend 2 cups of powdered sugar to sweeten the frosting.
15 -
Add one teaspoon of vanilla extract for a little extra depth.
16 -
Caramel: Start with 1 cup of white sugar for this sweet sauce.
17 -
Combine with 1/4 cup of water to get the caramel going.
18 -
Pour in 1/2 cup of heavy cream for that classic richness.
19 -
Three tablespoons of unsalted butter make it silky.
20 -
Include 1/4 teaspoon of salt to balance the sweetness.
21 -
Topping: Use 1 cup of chopped pecans for a crunchy finish.
22 -
Toast with 1 tablespoon of butter to bring out their flavor.
23 -
Sprinkle in 2 tablespoons of brown sugar to coat the pecans nicely.