Turtle Caramel Cake

When I was a little girl, my grandma always used to make turtle caramel cake for special occasions. It was one of my favorite desserts ever! She would always make it with love, and it would always taste amazing.

I remember the first time I tried to make it myself. I was so excited! But it didn’t turn out quite as I had hoped. The cake was dry and the caramel sauce was too thick.

But I kept trying. And eventually, I got the recipe just right. Now, whenever there’s a special occasion, I’m the one who makes turtle caramel cake for everyone to enjoy!

This turtle caramel cake recipe is definitely a decadent dessert choice, but it’s well worth the indulgence! The combination of rich chocolate cake, gooey caramel, and nutty pecans is an amazing treat for any occasion.

Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make! If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert that your guests will love, be sure to give this turtle caramel cake recipe a try. Trust me, you won’t regret it! 🙂

If you’re looking for an easy turtle caramel cake recipe that will impress your friends and family, look no further! Give this recipe a try – we promise you won’t be disappointed.

Scroll to bottom for printable recipe card.

What’s in a Turtle Chocolate Cake?

A turtle chocolate cake typically consists of a rich chocolate cake base, a layer of creamy caramel, chopped pecans, and a chocolate ganache or frosting.

Can I Make This Recipe From Scratch?

Yes, you can make a turtle chocolate cake from scratch by using recipes for chocolate cake, caramel sauce, and chocolate ganache or frosting.

Alternatively, you can use a boxed cake mix and add homemade caramel and chocolate toppings.

Which Boxed Cake Mix Should I Use?

You can use any chocolate cake mix that you prefer. Devil’s food or fudge cake mixes tend to work well for this recipe.

Can I use canned whipped cream?

While canned whipped cream can be used as a topping for the cake, it may not hold up as well as freshly whipped cream.

Tips for the Best Turtle Cake

• Use room temperature ingredients to ensure that the cake batter mixes evenly.
• Line the cake pan with parchment paper or grease and flour it to prevent sticking.
• Toast the pecans for a nuttier flavor and crunchier texture.
• Allow the cake to cool completely before adding the toppings to prevent them from melting or sliding off.

Ingredients for Turtle Caramel Cake:

• Semi-sweet chocolate chips
• Chopped pecans
• Unsalted sweet cream butter
• Evaporated milk
• Caramel bits
• German chocolate cake mix
• Whole milk
• Eggs
• Canola oil
• Chocolate fudge frosting

How to make Turtle Caramel Cake:

Step 1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees and spray a 9×13 baking dish with pam baking spray

Step 2. Using a hand mixer, beat the cake mix, oil, eggs, and milk together until combined and smooth

Step 3. Pour half of the cake batter into the baking dish.

Step 4. Bake for 15 minutes.

Step 5. Remove from oven once baked.

Step 6. Using a saucepan, combine the caramel bits, butter, and evaporated milk and bring to medium heat.

Step 7. Mix caramel mixture until melted and smooth.

Step 8. Pour over the baked cake.

Step 9. Sprinkle the chocolate chips and pecans over the caramel topping and cake.

Step 10. Pour the remaining cake batter on top of the caramel mixture and place it back into the oven to bake for 20 minutes.

Step 11. Allow cooling completely.

Step 12. Once cooled, soften up the chocolate fudge frosting and spread it evenly.

Step 13. Sprinkle with more chocolate chips and pecans.

THANKS FOR PINING!!

What can I do with the leftover evaporated milk?

You can use leftover evaporated milk to make a variety of desserts, such as flan, fudge, or pumpkin pie. You can also use it in savory recipes, such as creamy soups or sauces.

How Long Do Caramel Cakes Last?

A caramel cake can last for up to 4 days if stored in an airtight container at room temperature. However, it is best to consume it within the first 2 days for optimal freshness.

Storage Instructions for Caramel Turtle Cake

Store the turtle caramel cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. Alternatively, you can store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Allow the cake to come to room temperature before serving.

You can freeze this poke cake in the freezer for 3-4 months. Just place in a freezer container and then when ready to eat thaw in the fridge overnight.

More Caramel Recipes: 

Buttery Caramels – Try baking these scrumptious Creamy Buttery Caramels that are melt in your mouth good.

Easy Caramel Cake – This cake will make any occasion memorable, super moist, fluffy, and full of caramel flavor.

Caramel Sauce – This homemade caramel sauce is very good and way more better than store-bought!