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Decadent Turtle Cake topped with chocolate, caramel, and pecans

Box Mix Turtle Cake

A quick and easy dessert with layers of rich caramel, semi-sweet chocolate, and pecans, perfect for potlucks and family gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Cake
  • 1 box German chocolate cake mix Follow package directions
  • 3 eggs eggs Use room temperature for better mixing
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil Follow package directions
  • 1/2 cup water Follow package directions
For the Caramel Layer
  • 1 bag Kraft caramels (unwrapped)
  • 1 stick butter (8 tablespoons) Use unsalted to control salt
  • 1/4 cup evaporated milk
For the Topping
  • 12 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1 cup pecans (chopped) Chop for even distribution
  • 16 ounces chocolate frosting

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a 9x13 inch pan with non-stick spray.
  2. Whisk the cake mix with the eggs, oil, and water per the box directions until smooth and slightly thick.
  3. Pour half the batter into the prepared pan and spread gently with a spatula.
  4. Bake the first layer for 15 minutes, until edges are set and a golden rim appears.
Caramel Preparation
  1. Melt the caramels with butter and evaporated milk in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring until smooth.
  2. For a deeper caramel flavor, cook for an additional 30-60 seconds.
Assembly and Baking
  1. Pour the warm caramel evenly over the partially baked layer.
  2. Sprinkle the chocolate chips and chopped pecans on top.
  3. Spoon the remaining batter over the caramel in dollops and gently spread.
  4. Bake for another 20 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
  5. Let the cake cool completely on a wire rack before frosting.
  6. Spread the chocolate frosting evenly over the cooled cake.

Notes

For added flavor, sprinkle flaky sea salt on top. Store covered in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze wrapped tightly for up to 2 months.