This 3-Ingredient Caramel Belmont Cake is a simple, rich, and comforting dessert that delivers plenty of caramel flavor with very little effort. With just three main ingredients, this easy cake is perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, potlucks, or whenever you want a homemade dessert without a complicated recipe.
The finished cake is soft and tender with a delicious caramel flavor throughout. It is especially good served warm, when the caramel is rich and gooey.
Why You’ll Love This Caramel Cake
- Only 3 ingredients
- Quick and easy preparation
- Rich caramel flavor
- Soft and tender texture
- Perfect for potlucks and gatherings
- Delicious served warm or chilled
- Minimal cleanup
Ingredients
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 1 jar (12 ounces) caramel sauce
- 1 can (12 ounces) evaporated milk
How to Make 3-Ingredient Caramel Belmont Cake
Step 1: Prepare the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter
Prepare the yellow cake mix according to the package directions.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
Step 3: Add the Caramel
Bake the cake for approximately 20 minutes, or until the top is beginning to set.
Remove the cake from the oven.
Using the handle of a wooden spoon or the back of a small spoon, carefully make small holes across the surface of the cake.
Slowly drizzle the caramel sauce over the cake, allowing it to seep into the holes.
Step 4: Add the Evaporated Milk
Pour the evaporated milk evenly over the caramel-covered cake.
Return the cake to the oven and continue baking for approximately 15–20 minutes, or until the cake is fully set and a toothpick inserted into the cake portion comes out mostly clean.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Allow the cake to cool for at least 15–20 minutes before slicing.
Serve warm for a soft, gooey caramel dessert, or refrigerate it for a firmer texture.
Tips for the Best Caramel Belmont Cake
Use a good-quality caramel sauce for the best flavor.
Do not pour all of the caramel in one spot. Drizzle it evenly so every portion of the cake gets some caramel.
Let the first stage of baking set the cake enough to hold the holes and caramel without becoming completely firm.
Allow the finished cake to rest before cutting. This gives the caramel time to settle throughout the cake.
For an especially indulgent dessert, serve each slice with a spoonful of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
Serving Suggestions
This cake is delicious on its own, but it is even better served warm with vanilla ice cream.
A little extra caramel sauce drizzled over each slice can make the dessert even richer.
For a simple family dessert, serve it with coffee, tea, or a glass of cold milk.
Make-Ahead Instructions
The cake can be prepared a day ahead of time.
Once cooled, cover it tightly and refrigerate. Allow individual servings to come closer to room temperature or warm them gently before serving.
Storage
Store leftover cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Individual slices can be reheated in the microwave for a few seconds to restore their soft, warm texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use homemade caramel sauce?
Yes. Homemade caramel sauce can be used instead of prepared caramel sauce.
Can I use a different cake mix?
Yellow cake mix works especially well, but white cake mix or butter cake mix can also be used.
Can I make this cake in a smaller pan?
Yes, but the baking time will need to be adjusted. A smaller, deeper cake may require additional time to bake through.
Can I serve it cold?
Absolutely. The cake becomes firmer and more pudding-like when chilled, making it delicious straight from the refrigerator.
Recipe Summary
3-Ingredient Caramel Belmont Cake is a simple dessert made with yellow cake mix, caramel sauce, and evaporated milk. The cake is soft, rich, and infused with sweet caramel flavor, making it a comforting dessert that comes together with minimal effort.
Serve it warm with vanilla ice cream for an easy dessert that feels wonderfully indulgent, or chill it for a firmer, make-ahead treat.