Welcome to the world of irresistible desserts where we embark on a journey of flavors and textures with a timeless classic – TURTLE CAKE. This delectable treat is a perfect blend of rich chocolate, gooey caramel, and crunchy pecans, all combined to create a dessert that’s sure to leave you craving for more. Whether you’re a seasoned baker looking to impress your guests or a beginner eager to try something new, this recipe is perfect for anyone who appreciates a heavenly dessert experience.
Who is this Recipe For?
This recipe is for all the dessert enthusiasts out there who have an insatiable sweet tooth and are on the hunt for the next show-stopping treat to add to their repertoire. If you love the combination of chocolate, caramel, and nuts, then TURTLE CAKE is tailor-made for you. Whether it’s a special occasion, a family gathering, or just a weekend indulgence, this cake is sure to please all ages and taste buds.
Why TURTLE CAKE is Great
What makes TURTLE CAKE truly great is its ability to cater to a variety of taste preferences. The soft and moist German chocolate cake base provides the perfect canvas for the gooey caramel and the nutty crunch of pecans and chocolate chips. The contrast of flavors and textures in each bite is nothing short of extraordinary. Additionally, this cake is incredibly versatile. You can serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert, or you can have it with a cup of coffee as a delightful afternoon treat. The options are endless!
Kitchen Equipment Needed
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s make sure you have all the necessary kitchen equipment at hand. Don’t worry; you won’t need anything fancy. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 13×9 inch baking pan
- Double boiler (if you don’t have one, a heatproof bowl placed over a saucepan of simmering water works just as well)
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Rubber spatula
- Oven for baking
- Cooling rack
Tips and Shortcuts
- To save time, you can use store-bought caramel sauce instead of making it from scratch. However, the homemade version adds a unique richness to the cake.
- Feel free to get creative with the toppings. You can add shredded coconut, drizzle some hot fudge sauce, or even sprinkle a pinch of sea salt for a delightful twist.
Recipe Swaps and Variations
- For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free chocolate cake mix.
- If you’re a fan of dark chocolate, substitute the German chocolate cake mix with a dark chocolate cake mix.
- Not a fan of pecans? Swap them with walnuts, almonds, or your favorite nut variety.
Storing Leftovers
If you somehow have any leftovers (which is rare because this cake is so delicious), you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For extended freshness, refrigerate the cake for up to a week. Just make sure to microwave it for a few seconds before serving to bring back its soft and gooey texture.
Food and Drink Pairings
TURTLE CAKE pairs wonderfully with a variety of beverages. For a classic combination, enjoy it with a steaming cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk. If you’re feeling adventurous, try pairing it with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The contrast of temperatures and flavors will tantalize your taste buds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I freeze the TURTLE CAKE?
A: Yes, you can freeze the cake for up to three months. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe container. Thaw it in the refrigerator before serving.
Q: Can I make the cake in advance for a special occasion?
A: Absolutely! The cake tastes even better the next day. Prepare it a day in advance, store it in the refrigerator, and enjoy the convenience of having a delightful dessert ready to serve.
Q: How do I prevent the caramel from sticking to the pan?
A: Ensure that you grease the baking pan well before pouring the cake batter. This will help prevent the caramel from sticking and make it easier to slice and serve the cake.
Ingredients
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 2 cups pecans
- 3/4 cup melted butter
- 1/2 cup evaporated milk
- 1 (14 ounce) bag caramels
- 1 1/3 cups water (or as called for by your cake mix)
- 1/3 cup oil (or as called for by your cake mix)
- 3 eggs (or as called for by your cake mix)
- 1 (18 ounce) box German chocolate cake mix
Instructions
Prepare the Cake Mix: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare the German chocolate cake mix according to the instructions on the box. Combine the cake mix, water, oil, and eggs in a mixing bowl, and whisk until smooth and well combined.
Layer the Batter: Pour half of the cake batter into a greased 13x9 inch pan, spreading it evenly.
Bake the First Layer: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes. Once done, remove the pan from the oven and let the cake layer cool on a wire rack.
Prepare the Caramel Topping: While the first cake layer cools, it's time to prepare the luscious caramel topping. In a double boiler, combine the caramels, melted butter, and evaporated milk. Stir the mixture constantly until the caramels have completely melted, and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Add the Caramel Layer: Pour the melted caramel sauce over the cooling cake layer, spreading it evenly.
Sprinkle Pecans and Chocolate Chips: Generously sprinkle one cup of pecans and chocolate chips over the caramel layer, ensuring an even distribution.
Layer the Remaining Batter: Pour the remaining cake batter over the pecans and chocolate chips, gently spreading it to cover the toppings.
Bake the Final Layer: Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 20 to 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let it Cool: Once the cake is baked to perfection, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan on a wire rack.
Top it Off: As a final touch, sprinkle the remaining pecans and chocolate chips over the cooled cake, adding an extra layer of texture and flavor.