Turtle Cake

Turtle Cake is a rich, decadent dessert layered with gooey caramel, crunchy pecans, and fudgy chocolate. Inspired by the classic turtle candy, this indulgent cake combines everything you love—moist chocolate cake, melted chocolate chips, and a ribbon of caramel—for a showstopping treat perfect for birthdays, holidays, or chocolate cravings.

ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

chocolate cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box)evaporated milkbuttercaramel bits or soft caramelschopped pecanschocolate chipsvanilla extract

directions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Prepare the chocolate cake mix according to package directions. Pour half the batter into the prepared dish and bake for 15 minutes.

While the cake bakes, melt caramels with evaporated milk and butter in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring until smooth.

Remove cake from oven and pour the warm caramel mixture over the partially baked layer. Sprinkle with chopped pecans and chocolate chips.

Pour the remaining cake batter over the top, spreading it evenly.

Return to the oven and bake for an additional 20–25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean.

Cool completely before slicing. Serve as-is or with whipped cream or ice cream.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 12–15 people.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 35–40 minutes
Cooling time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour 55 minutes

Variations

Use German chocolate cake mix for added richness.

Add a pinch of sea salt over the caramel for a sweet-salty contrast.

Top with a drizzle of chocolate ganache or extra caramel after baking.

Use walnuts or almonds instead of pecans.

Make it in cupcake form for individual turtle treats.

storage/reheating

Store covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
Warm individual slices in the microwave for 10–15 seconds before serving.
Freeze tightly wrapped for up to 2 months.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?

Yes, but melted caramel bits or wrapped caramels create a thicker layer.

Can I make it without nuts?

Absolutely—just omit the pecans for a nut-free version.

Is the cake supposed to be gooey?

Yes, the center should be fudgy and moist, not dry.

Can I use homemade cake batter?

Yes, just use a standard chocolate cake recipe and follow the layering method.

Does this need to be refrigerated?

Not required, but it keeps longer when chilled.

What’s the best way to serve it?

Warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

Can I use dark chocolate chips?

Yes, for a deeper, less sweet chocolate flavor.

Can I make it in advance?

Yes, it’s even better the next day after the flavors settle.

Why is it called Turtle Cake?

It’s inspired by turtle candies, made with chocolate, caramel, and pecans.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, bake in two pans or a larger baking dish, adjusting bake time as needed.

Conclusion

Turtle Cake is a luscious, layered dessert that brings together all the best flavors of chocolate, caramel, and pecans in one irresistible bite. Easy to make and always a hit, it’s the ultimate indulgence for any occasion.

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