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+ servings

Turtle Caramel Cake

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Dessert, Snack
Cuisine American
Keyword Turtle Caramel Cake
Servings 10
This Turtle Caramel Cake is gooey, chocolatey, and topped with pecans and fudge frosting. A perfect easy dessert for celebrations!

Ingredients

  • 1 box German chocolate cake mix
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 3 large eggs
  • cup canola oil
  • 1 11 oz package caramel bits
  • ¾ cup unsalted butter melted
  • ½ cup evaporated milk
  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 2 cups chopped pecans
  • 1 container chocolate fudge frosting

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or line it with parchment paper for easier cleanup.

Step 2: Mix the Cake Batter

  • In a large bowl, combine the German chocolate cake mix, whole milk, eggs, and oil using a hand mixer. Beat for about 2 minutes until a smooth batter forms.

Step 3: Bake the Base Layer

  • Pour half of the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Bake for 15 minutes until just set.

Step 4: Prepare the Caramel Filling

  • While the base layer bakes, add the caramel bits, melted butter, and evaporated milk to a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk continuously until the caramel bits melt completely and the mixture is smooth and glossy.

Step 5: Layer the Caramel and Toppings

  • Remove the partially baked cake from the oven. Carefully pour the warm caramel mixture evenly over the cake. Sprinkle ¾ cup of the chocolate chips and 1 cup of the chopped pecans on top of the caramel layer.

Step 6: Add the Second Cake Layer

  • Using a spoon, gently dollop the remaining cake batter over the caramel layer. Carefully spread it with a knife or offset spatula to cover the caramel mixture.

Step 7: Finish Baking

  • Return the cake to the oven and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with only a few moist crumbs attached.

Step 8: Cool and Frost

  • Place the cake on a wire rack and let it cool completely in the pan for about 2 hours. Once fully cooled, evenly spread the container of chocolate fudge frosting over the cake. Sprinkle with the remaining ¼ cup chocolate chips and 1 cup chopped pecans for the ultimate turtle-inspired finish.