Step 1: Prepare the Pan

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
2. Grease and flour a 10-inch bundt pan or loaf pan to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

3. In a large bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

4. In another mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened butter and sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

5. Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.
6. Mix in the vanilla extract.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

7. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture in three parts, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the flour mixture to ensure even mixing.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

8. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
9. Bake for 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
10. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

For the Caramel Icing:

Step 7: Make the Caramel Base

11. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
12. Add the brown sugar and stir continuously as the mixture simmers for 2-3 minutes.

Step 8: Add Cream and Thicken

13. Slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring. Continue to simmer for another 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently until the mixture thickens slightly.

Step 9: Add Flavor and Cool

14. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Let the icing cool for a few minutes to thicken further.

Step 10: Pour the Icing

15. Once the cake has fully cooled, drizzle the caramel icing over the top. Allow it to cascade down the sides for an elegant presentation.