Step 1: Preheat the Oven. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the cake bakes evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Pan. Grease a 9x13 inch sheet pan with butter or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar. In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-5 minutes with an electric mixer.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla. Add the eggs, egg yolks, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture. Continue mixing until everything is well combined.
Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This will ensure even distribution of the leavening agents.
Step 6: Alternate Mixing Dry Ingredients and Buttermilk. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Start and end with the flour mixture, mixing until just combined.
Step 7: Bake the Cake. Pour the batter into the prepared sheet pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 8: Make the Caramel Icing. While the cake is baking, prepare the caramel icing. In a saucepan, melt 6 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Stir in the brown sugar and milk, bringing it to a gentle boil. Remove from heat and gradually whisk in the powdered sugar until smooth.
Step 9: Cool and Ice the Cake. Once the cake is baked, allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a cooling rack. Let it cool completely before pouring the caramel icing over the top.
Step 10: Serve and Enjoy. Slice into squares and serve. Enjoy the delightful combination of moist cake and rich caramel icing!