Easy Homemade Chocolate Turtle Cake
Chocolate Turtle Cake — This decadent poke cake is topped with whipped topping, salted caramel sauce, mini chocolate chips, and chopped pecans. It’s so easy to make and a huge hit at parties!
I love anything turtle-flavored. Gooey caramel contrasted with crunchy pecans and rich chocolate is a combination I can’t resist. Put that in a poke cake form, and you’ve got yourself a mega hit. This is one of the best cakes I’ve ever made, and we absolutely loved it.
Poke cakes get their name because after baking, you poke holes in the cake and drizzle in a sweetly satisfying mixture, usually consisting of sweetened condensed milk and caramel sauce, though it can vary. The sauce seeps into the holes, making poke cakes incredibly soft and moist, and this turtle cake is no exception. When you put a slice of the cake on a plate, you can literally see the caramel mixture oozing out of the bottom of the cake.
I topped this chocolate turtle cake with whipped topping (you can use whipped cream, but whipped topping holds up better at room or warmer temperatures and doesn’t deflate like whipped cream), salted caramel sauce (which is a great salty-sweet contrast to the sweet elements in the cake), chocolate chips, and chopped pecans. So many textures and flavors in every bite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Chocolate Turtle Cake is not only incredibly easy to make, but it also brings together the perfect balance of textures and flavors that everyone loves. It’s the ideal dessert for any occasion, sure to impress your guests with its gooey caramel, crunchy pecans, and rich chocolate goodness.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- 13×9 inch baking pan
- Double boiler
- Mixing bowls
- Spatula
Ingredients
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 2 cups pecans
- 3/4 cup melted butter
- 1/2 cup evaporated milk
- 1 (14-ounce) bag caramels
- 1 1/3 cups water (or as called for by your cake mix)
- 1/3 cup oil (or as called for by your cake mix)
- 3 eggs (or as called for by your cake mix)
- 1 (18-ounce) box German chocolate cake mix
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the cake mix as directed on the package.
- Pour half of the batter into a 13×9 inch pan.
- Bake at 350°F for 15 minutes, then remove and let cool.
- In a double boiler, combine caramels, milk, and butter; stir constantly until melted.
- Pour the melted caramel over the cooling cake.
- Sprinkle 1 cup of pecans and chocolate chips on top.
- Pour the remaining batter over the top and bake for an additional 20 minutes.
- Enjoy your delicious Chocolate Turtle Cake!
Tips for Success
Make sure to let the cake cool slightly before pouring the caramel mixture over it to allow the caramel to set properly. Also, using whipped topping instead of whipped cream will help the cake hold up better if it’s not served immediately.
Additional Tips and Variations
For a different twist, try adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the final layer for an extra salty-sweet kick. You can also use dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
Each serving of Chocolate Turtle Cake contains approximately:
- Calories: 400
- Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Protein: 4g
- Sodium: 200mg
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use a different type of cake mix?
Yes, you can use any chocolate cake mix you prefer, although German chocolate cake mix enhances the flavor combination beautifully.
How should I store the cake?
Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Let it come to room temperature before serving for the best taste.
Can I make this cake in advance?
Absolutely! This cake can be made a day ahead. In fact, it tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld together.
Conclusion
Ready to dive into a slice of pure decadence? This Easy Homemade Chocolate Turtle Cake is sure to be a hit at your next gathering. Give it a try, and I’d love to hear how it turns out for you. Share your experiences and any fun variations you tried. Happy baking!
