Category: Treats That Make Everything Better
This dessert starts with a box of German chocolate cake mix for ease, then delivers rich flavor with a layer of melted caramels, buttery pecans, and extra semi-sweet chocolate chips. The caramel filling is poured over a partially baked chocolate cake base, sprinkled with pecans and chocolate, then topped with more cake and baked until set. A final layer of creamy chocolate frosting finishes it off. Serve cool for distinct layers and chewy texture. Every bite combines deep chocolate and decadent caramel, making it ideal for gatherings or special occasions
Box mix turtle cake is the dessert I rely on when I want something decadent with hardly any effort This recipe transforms a humble box of chocolate cake mix into a gooey chocolatey treat layered with buttery caramel toasted pecans and melted chocolate chips rich enough to mark any celebration
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Uses a boxed cake mix so it is almost foolproof
Gooey caramel layer tastes like classic candy
Big chocolate flavor without fancy steps
Perfect for potlucks family gatherings and bake sales
My family asks for this whenever they spot a bag of caramels in the pantry The sweet salty crunch from pecans and the silkiness of melted caramel have made this the most requested cake for birthdays and Sunday dinners alike
Ingredients
German chocolate cake mix: You want a deep chocolate flavor so stick with German chocolate for the best base
Eggs vegetable oil water: Essential for structure and moisture Choose fresh eggs and a neutral oil for the fluffiest cake
Kraft caramels: These melt smoothly and give that classic chewy caramel taste Go for name brand for the best melt
Butter: Makes the caramel easy to pour and adds richness Use unsalted if you want more control over the sweetness
Evaporated milk: Lets the caramel stay silky without burning Skip regular milk which can separate when heated
Semi sweet chocolate chips: Add bursts of melted chocolate throughout the filling Pick high quality chips for maximum flavor
Pecans: Toasted pecans give crunch and an earthy undertone Always use fresh nuts for better taste and never skip a quick toast in a pan
Chocolate frosting: Makes the final cake extra lush Use canned for convenience but feel free to use homemade if you have time
Step by Step Instructions
Prepare the Pan:
Spray a 13 by 9 inch pan with non stick spray so you can easily lift out each piece later A good coating means no cake left behind
Mix and Bake the First Layer:
Combine cake mix eggs oil and water using the box directions to guide you Beat until just mixed then pour half the batter in your prepared pan Bake it at 350 degrees for 15 minutes so the base sets up for your fillings
Melt the Caramel:
While the cake bakes unwrap all caramels and place in a medium saucepan Add butter and evaporated milk Set over medium low heat and stir constantly until the mixture is glossy and fully melted Never walk away from the caramel since it can scorch fast
Build the Turtle Center:
When the cake layer is done take it out and immediately pour the hot caramel over the surface Spread gently with a spatula so it covers evenly Sprinkle chocolate chips all over the caramel and follow with the pecans so you get even flavor in every bite
Add and Bake the Second Layer:
Pour the remaining cake batter carefully over the turtle filling Use a spatula to spread it if needed Make sure the caramel and chips are mostly covered Return the cake to the oven and bake for about 20 minutes The top should feel set and a toothpick will come out mostly clean
Cool and Frost:
Let the cake cool completely so the layers can set Spread chocolate frosting over the top for a smooth finishing touch Feel free to sprinkle a few extra pecans on top if you want
A slice of box mix turtle cake.
