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Turtle Caramel Cake Recipe

★★★★★

4.4 from 139 reviews
  • Author: Zoe
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings 1x

Description

This rich and decadent Turtle Caramel Cake combines the moist texture of German chocolate cake with a luscious caramel and pecan filling, topped with chocolate chips and a smooth chocolate fudge frosting. Perfect for special occasions or whenever you crave a luxurious treat.

Ingredients

Scale

Cake Batter

  • 1 box German chocolate cake mix
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1/3 cup canola oil

Caramel Filling

  • 1 package (11 oz) caramel bits
  • 3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/2 cup evaporated milk

Toppings & Frosting

  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 2 cups chopped pecans
  • 1 container chocolate fudge frosting

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
  2. Mix Cake Batter: In a large bowl, combine the German chocolate cake mix, whole milk, eggs, and canola oil. Use a hand mixer to blend the ingredients until the batter is smooth and well incorporated.
  3. Bake First Layer: Pour half of the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish. Bake for 15 minutes to set the base layer of the cake.
  4. Make Caramel Filling: While the first layer bakes, combine the caramel bits, melted butter, and evaporated milk in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk continuously until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
  5. Add Caramel Layer: Remove the partially baked cake layer from the oven and pour the warm caramel filling evenly over it.
  6. Top with Chocolate and Pecans: Sprinkle the semi-sweet chocolate chips and chopped pecans evenly over the caramel layer to add texture and flavor.
  7. Finish Cake Batter: Spoon the remaining half of the cake batter over the caramel and toppings. Gently spread with a knife to cover the filling without mixing layers.
  8. Bake Final Layer: 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.
  9. Cool and Frost: Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan to set the layers before frosting. Once cooled, spread the chocolate fudge frosting evenly over the top and garnish with additional chocolate chips and chopped pecans for decoration.

Notes

  • Ensure the caramel mixture is smooth and warm when pouring over the cake layer to facilitate even distribution.
  • Be careful when spreading the second part of the batter over the caramel so you don’t mix the layers.
  • Allow the cake to cool fully before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
  • You can substitute semi-sweet chocolate chips with dark or milk chocolate based on preference.
  • Store leftover cake covered at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Keywords: Turtle Caramel Cake, German chocolate cake, caramel cake, chocolate pecan cake, chocolate fudge frosting, homemade cake

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Find it online: https://cookingwithzoe.com/turtle-caramel-cake-recipe/