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Few desserts can capture the hearts of chocolate and caramel lovers like the Chocolate Turtle Cake. Inspired by the classic caramel pecan chocolate ‘turtle’ candies, this cake is a harmonious blend of rich chocolate layers, a decadent caramel pecan filling, and a smooth milk chocolate buttercream. Whether for a special occasion or simply indulging your sweet tooth, this cake will surely impress!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Chocolate Turtle Cake is a show-stopper with its moist chocolate layers and creamy, nutty filling. It’s perfect for chocolate enthusiasts and those who can’t resist the combination of caramel and nuts. The cake is easy to assemble, yet it looks and tastes like a gourmet dessert.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Electric mixer
- 8-inch round cake pans
- Wire racks
- Serrated knife
- Mixing bowls
Ingredients
- Unsweetened cocoa
- 1 (18.25-oz.) package devil’s food cake mix
- 1 (3.9-oz.) package chocolate instant pudding mix
- 3 large eggs
- 1 1/4 cups milk
- 3/4 cup canola oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon chocolate extract
- 1 teaspoon instant coffee granules
- 1 (6-oz.) package semisweet chocolate morsels
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1 (16-oz.) container ready-to-spread cream cheese frosting
- 1/2 cup canned dulce de leche
- 2 (7-oz.) packages turtle candies
- 1 (16-oz.) can ready-to-spread chocolate fudge frosting
- 1 (12-oz.) jar dulce de leche ice cream topping
- 1/4 cup pecan halves, toasted
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease two 8-inch round cake pans and dust them with cocoa. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, beat the cake mix, pudding mix, eggs, milk, oil, vanilla extract, chocolate extract, and coffee granules at low speed for 1 minute. Increase to medium speed and beat for 2 more minutes. Fold in chocolate morsels and chopped pecans. Pour the batter into the prepared pans.
- Bake for 30 to 32 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans on wire racks for 10 minutes, then remove from the pans and cool completely. Wrap and chill the cake layers for at least an hour.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the cream cheese frosting and canned dulce de leche until well blended. Cut six turtle candies in half for garnish and dice the remaining candies.
- Using a serrated knife, slice each cake layer in half horizontally to make four layers. Place one layer, cut side up, on a cake plate. Spread with 1/2 cup of the cream cheese frosting mixture and sprinkle with one-third of the diced turtle candies. Repeat this procedure twice more. Place the final cake layer on top, cut side down. Spread the chocolate fudge frosting over the top and sides of the cake. Chill in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
- Just before serving, drizzle the dulce de leche ice cream topping over the top of the cake. Garnish with the halved turtle candies and toasted pecan halves. Store in the refrigerator.
Tips for Success
- Ensure your cake layers are completely cool before slicing and assembling to prevent the frosting from melting.
- Chill the cake before serving for cleaner slices and a more cohesive flavor.
Additional Tips and Variations
If you prefer, you can use a homemade caramel sauce in place of the dulce de leche. For a different flavor profile, try substituting walnuts for pecans.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
This cake is rich and decadent, providing a delightful indulgence. Please enjoy in moderation!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cake layers a day in advance. Wrap them in plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator.
What if I don’t have coffee granules?
You can omit them, but they do enhance the chocolate flavor. If you have brewed coffee, you can substitute it for part of the milk.
Conclusion
This Chocolate Turtle Cake is a delightful dessert that combines rich chocolate, creamy caramel, and crunchy pecans into a symphony of flavors. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself, this cake is sure to please. Give it a try and share your experiences with us!
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