Nothing says comfort like a Turtle Caramel Cake. This decadent dessert takes me back to my childhood, where weekends meant baking adventures with my mom.
I’d wait eagerly as the chocolatey aroma filled the kitchen, sneaking bits of caramel whenever I could.
Now, this cake has become my go-to for family gatherings and special occasions. And guess what? It’s easier to make than you’d think!
Let’s dive into this recipe and bring a little nostalgia into your kitchen.
How To Make The Perfect Turtle Caramel Cake At Home
This Turtle Caramel Cake combines gooey caramel, rich chocolate, and crunchy pecans in one unforgettable dessert. It’s simple to make, yet so satisfying that everyone will think you spent hours on it.
Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Cuisine: American
- Course: Dessert
- Difficulty Level: Easy
- Yield: 12 servings
- Calories Per Serving: 380 kcal
Ingredients
You’ll need these straightforward ingredients to create your Turtle Caramel Cake:
- 1 box German chocolate cake mix
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup canola oil
- 1/2 cup unsalted sweet cream butter
- 1 bag (11 oz) caramel bits
- 1/3 cup evaporated milk
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1 can (16 oz) chocolate fudge frosting
Substitutions And Variations:
- Substitute evaporated milk with heavy cream for a richer flavor.
- Swap chopped pecans for walnuts if that’s what you have.
- For a richer chocolate taste, use dark chocolate chips.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare The Cake Batter
- Heat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and coat a 9 x 13-inch baking dish with oil.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the German chocolate cake mix, whole milk, eggs, and canola oil. Mix until smooth.
- Pour half of the batter into the prepared dish and bake for 15 minutes.
Step 2: Make The Caramel Layer
- While the cake bakes, melt the caramel bits with the evaporated milk and butter in a saucepan over low heat, stirring until smooth.
Step 3: Assemble The Cake
- Remove the partially baked cake from the oven and pour the caramel mixture evenly over it.
- Sprinkle the chopped pecans and semi-sweet chocolate chips over the caramel layer.
- Pour the remaining cake batter on top, spreading it gently to cover the caramel and toppings.
Step 4: Bake And Frost
- Return the dish to the oven and bake for another 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool completely before spreading the chocolate fudge frosting evenly on top.
Video Tutorial:
Why Is It Called Turtle Cake?
The name comes from its flavor and texture, reminiscent of chocolate turtles — those caramel-filled, chocolate-coated, pecan-studded candies we all love. This cake captures that indulgence in every bite.
What Does Turtle Cake Taste Like?
It’s a delightful blend of chocolatey richness, gooey caramel, and nutty crunch. The layers meld together, making it almost impossible to stop at just one slice.
Can I Freeze Turtle Caramel Cake?
Yes! Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, place them in a freezer-safe container, and freeze for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Tips And Tricks
- For Perfect layers: Let the caramel cool slightly before adding the top batter.
- Dietary Adjustments: Use gluten-free chocolate cake mix to make it gluten-free.
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.
- Reheating: Warm individual slices in the microwave for 10–15 seconds to make the caramel gooey again.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use A Different Cake Mix?
Yes, you can substitute the German chocolate cake mix with a regular chocolate or devil’s food cake mix.
Can I Skip The Nuts?
Absolutely! If you’re allergic to nuts or prefer a nut-free version, just leave out the pecans.
Can I Make This Cake Ahead Of Time?
Yes, it tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Store it covered until ready to serve.
How Can I Make This Cake Less Sweet?
Use dark chocolate chips and a less sugary frosting for a balanced flavor.
This Turtle Caramel Cake is the kind of dessert that brings smiles to everyone’s faces. Make it for a family gathering, a holiday, or just because you’re craving something special.
Please give the recipe a try and share your results in the comments section below. And don’t forget to check out my other easy, irresistible dessert recipes!
Turtle Caramel Cake Made Simple: Step-By-Step Guide
Ingredients
- 1 box German chocolate cake mix
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup canola oil
- 1/2 cup unsalted sweet cream butter
- 1 bag 11 oz caramel bits
- 1/3 cup evaporated milk
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1 can 16 oz chocolate fudge frosting
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare The Cake Batter
- Heat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and coat a 9 x 13-inch baking dish with oil.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the German chocolate cake mix, whole milk, eggs, and canola oil. Mix until smooth.
- Pour half of the batter into the prepared dish and bake for 15 minutes.
Step 2: Make The Caramel Layer
- While the cake bakes, melt the caramel bits with the evaporated milk and butter in a saucepan over low heat, stirring until smooth.
Step 3: Assemble The Cake
- Remove the partially baked cake from the oven and pour the caramel mixture evenly over it.
- Sprinkle the chopped pecans and semi-sweet chocolate chips over the caramel layer.
- Pour the remaining cake batter on top, spreading it gently to cover the caramel and toppings.
Step 4: Bake And Frost
- Return the dish to the oven and bake for another 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool completely before spreading the chocolate fudge frosting evenly on top.
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