Dessert

Turtle Caramel Cake Recipe

ByZoe Lane October 26, 2025October 26, 2025

Introduction

Turtle Caramel Cake is a deliciously rich dessert combining the flavors of chocolate, caramel, and crunchy pecans. This cake features a moist German chocolate base layered with gooey caramel and topped with chocolate chips and nuts. It’s an indulgent treat perfect for any special occasion.

A close-up image of a slice of rich chocolate cake with three visible layers: two moist, dark brown chocolate cake layers with a soft, crumbly texture, separated by a thick, gooey caramel layer filled with darker bits that add texture. The top layer is covered in smooth, glossy chocolate frosting, decorated with pecan halves and small chocolate chips scattered evenly on top. The cake sits on a white plate against a white marbled background, and a woman's hand can be seen gently holding the plate from the side. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 box German chocolate cake mix
1 cup whole milk
3 large eggs
1/3 cup canola oil
1 package (11 oz) caramel bits
3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/2 cup evaporated milk
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
2 cups chopped pecans
1 container chocolate fudge frosting

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, whole milk, eggs, and canola oil. Use a hand mixer to blend until the batter is smooth.
Step 3: Pour half of the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for 15 minutes.
Step 4: While the cake layer bakes, prepare the caramel filling. In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk together the caramel bits, melted butter, and evaporated milk until smooth and melted completely.
Step 5: Pour the warm caramel mixture evenly over the partially baked cake layer.
Step 6: Sprinkle the semi-sweet chocolate chips and chopped pecans over the caramel layer.
Step 7: Spoon the remaining cake batter carefully over the caramel and nut layer. Spread gently with a knife to cover evenly.
Step 8: Return the cake to the oven and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out mostly clean.
Step 9: Let the cake cool completely before frosting with chocolate fudge frosting. Add extra chocolate chips and pecans on top for decoration if desired.

Tips & Variations

For added moisture, substitute half the milk with buttermilk.
Use toasted pecans for a deeper nutty flavor.
Try using a caramel sauce instead of caramel bits for a smoother filling.
If you prefer a less sweet cake, reduce the amount of chocolate chips on top.

Storage

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, keep it covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Before serving, bring to room temperature or warm slightly to soften the frosting and enhance flavors.

How to Serve

A close-up image of a thick slice of chocolate cake with three distinct layers. The top and bottom layers are dark brown and moist with a slightly crumbly texture. Between the two cake layers is a thick layer of smooth, glossy caramel that appears rich and sticky. The cake is topped with a smooth, dark chocolate frosting sprinkled with whole pecans and small chocolate chips, arranged in clusters. The slice is set against a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this cake from scratch without a cake mix?

Yes, you can substitute the German chocolate cake mix with a homemade German chocolate cake batter, but be sure to maintain similar proportions of liquids and fats for the best texture.

Can I freeze the Turtle Caramel Cake?

Yes, this cake freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.