Turtle Caramel Cake Recipe

Rich. Decadent. Irresistible. This Turtle Caramel Cake is a dreamy dessert layered with gooey caramel, crunchy pecans, and velvety chocolate. Inspired by the classic turtle candy, it brings all the best textures and flavors into one stunning cake—perfect for birthdays, holidays, or just because you deserve something indulgent.

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 2 cups granulated sugar

• 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

• 2 tsp baking soda

• 1 tsp baking powder

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 1 cup buttermilk, room temp

• 1 cup hot water

• 1/2 cup vegetable oil

• 2 large eggs

• 2 tsp vanilla extract

For the Caramel Filling:

• 1 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)

• 1 cup chopped pecans, toasted

For the Chocolate Ganache:

• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

• 1/2 cup heavy cream

For Garnish (Optional but amazing):

• Extra caramel drizzle

• Extra chopped pecans

• Whole pecans or turtle candies for decoration

• Instructions

  1. Bake the Cake Layers:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans (or line with parchment).

  2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.

  3. Add buttermilk, oil, eggs, and vanilla. Mix until combined.

  4. Slowly stir in the hot water (batter will be thin).

  5. Divide batter evenly between pans. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

  6. Cool completely before assembling.

  2. Make the Ganache:

  1. Heat the heavy cream in a saucepan until simmering.

  2. Pour over chocolate chips in a bowl. Let sit 1–2 minutes, then stir until smooth and glossy.

  3. Let cool to a pourable consistency.

  3. Assemble the Cake:

  1. Place one cake layer on a plate or stand.

  2. Spread half the caramel sauce over the top, sprinkle with half the chopped pecans.

  3. Place second cake layer on top.

  4. Pour ganache over the top, letting it drip slightly over the edges.

  5. Drizzle with remaining caramel and sprinkle remaining pecans on top.

  4. Chill and Serve:

  • Refrigerate for 30 minutes to set, or serve immediately if you love it gooey!

  • Tips:

    • Toast the pecans for extra flavor.

    • Add a pinch of sea salt on top for a salted caramel twist.

    • Store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 5 days.