TURTLE CARAMEL CAKE

This Turtle Chocolate Cake is a delightful creation that brings together the rich flavors of chocolate, caramel, and pecans in a truly irresistible way. Imagine the classic turtle candies you love, transformed into a decadent cake that’s perfect for any celebration or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth. With layers of moist chocolate cake, a luscious caramel sauce, crunchy pecans, and a smooth caramel buttercream, this cake is a slice of heaven on a plate.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Turtle Caramel Cake is a must-try for several reasons. First, it combines the beloved flavors of turtle candies into a cake, making it both unique and familiar. The moistness of the chocolate cake pairs perfectly with the gooey caramel and the crunch of pecans, creating a symphony of textures. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make, using a base of German chocolate cake mix to save time without sacrificing taste.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• 9×13 inch baking pan
• Saucepan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk or electric mixer
• Spatula

Ingredients

• 1 cup chocolate chips (Toll House Morsels Semi-Sweet Chocolate)
• 2 cups pecans, chopped
• 3/4 cup melted butter
• 1/2 cup evaporated milk
• 1 (14 ounce) bag caramels
• 1 1/3 cups water (or as required by your cake mix)
• 1/3 cup oil (or as required by your cake mix)
• 3 eggs (or as required by your cake mix)
• 1 (18 ounce) box German chocolate cake mix

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
2. Lightly grease a 9×13 inch pan.
3. Prepare the cake mix according to the package directions. Pour half of the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 15 minutes.
4. In a saucepan, melt the caramels with 3/4 cup of butter and evaporated milk over low heat. Stir until smooth, then pour over the baked cake layer.
5. Sprinkle the chocolate chips and chopped pecans evenly over the caramel layer.
6. Pour the remaining cake batter over the top and return to the oven. Bake for another 20 minutes.
7. Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting.
8. For the frosting, melt 2 tablespoons of butter with unsweetened chocolate. Remove from heat, then stir in corn syrup, vanilla, confectioners’ sugar, and milk. Mix well and use to frost the cooled cake.

Tips for Success

• Be sure to let the caramel layer cool slightly before adding the second layer of cake batter to prevent sinking.
• For easier handling, line your baking pan with parchment paper.

Additional Tips and Variations

For a more intense chocolate flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of instant coffee granules to the cake mix. If you’re a fan of extra crunch, try toasting the pecans before adding them to the cake.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

Calories: 450, Fat: 25g, Carbohydrates: 55g, Protein: 5g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use a different type of chocolate for the chips? Yes, feel free to use dark or milk chocolate chips based on your preference.

Is there an alternative to pecans? Walnuts or almonds can be used as a substitute if you prefer.

How long will the cake stay fresh? The cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to a week.

Conclusion

This Turtle Caramel Cake is a delightful treat that’s sure to impress friends and family alike. Its rich flavors and textures make it an unforgettable dessert. Give it a try and let us know how it turns out for you! We’d love to hear about your experience and any delicious variations you come up with.