Box Mix Turtle Cake Recipe

Introduction

This Box Mix Turtle Cake is an indulgent twist on a classic favorite, combining rich German chocolate cake with gooey caramel, chocolate chips, and crunchy pecans. It’s an easy-to-make dessert perfect for any occasion when you want something impressive without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• 1 box German chocolate cake mix
• 3 eggs (follow directions on cake mix box)
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil (follow directions on cake mix box)
• 1/2 cup water (follow directions on cake mix box)
• 1 bag Kraft caramels
• 1 stick butter
• 1/4 cup evaporated milk
• 12 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 cup pecans
• 16 ounce can chocolate frosting

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F and spray a 13 x 9 inch cake pan with non-stick cooking spray.
2. Step 2: Prepare the cake batter according to the directions on the German chocolate cake mix box.
3. Step 3: Pour half of the batter into the greased pan and bake for 15 minutes.
4. Step 4: While the cake is baking, melt the caramels, butter, and evaporated milk together in a medium saucepan, stirring constantly until smooth.
5. Step 5: Pour the melted caramel mixture evenly over the partially baked cake.
6. Step 6: Sprinkle the chocolate chips and pecans evenly over the caramel layer.
7. Step 7: Pour the remaining cake batter evenly over the top, then bake for about 20 more minutes or until the cake is set.
8. Step 8: Let the cake cool completely, then spread the chocolate frosting over the top before serving.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, toast pecans lightly before sprinkling them over the cake.
• Use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet for a richer taste.
• Swap out the chocolate frosting for cream cheese frosting for a tangy contrast.
• Make sure to stir the caramel mixture constantly to prevent burning and ensure smoothness.

Storage

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. If refrigerated, allow the cake to come to room temperature before serving to enjoy the best texture. Leftover slices can be gently reheated in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to soften the caramel and frosting.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different cake mix flavor?

While German chocolate is traditional and pairs best with caramel and pecans, you can experiment with other chocolate or vanilla cake mixes to create your own variation.

Do I have to melt the caramel on the stovetop?

Melting the caramel on the stovetop with butter and evaporated milk helps achieve a smooth, pourable consistency. You can melt it in the microwave in short intervals if you prefer, just be sure to stir frequently to prevent burning.

Box Mix Turtle Cake Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 53 reviews

This indulgent Box Mix Turtle Cake combines the ease of a German chocolate cake mix with the rich flavors of caramel, chocolate chips, and pecans. Layered and baked to perfection, this cake is topped with creamy chocolate frosting, creating a deliciously gooey and nutty dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.

• Author: Amaya
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Cake

• 1 box German chocolate cake mix
• 3 eggs
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup water

Caramel Topping

• 1 bag Kraft caramels (about 36 pieces)
• 1 stick (1/2 cup) unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup evaporated milk

Toppings

• 12 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 cup pecans, chopped
• 16 ounce can chocolate frosting

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly spray a 13 x 9 inch baking pan with non-stick cooking spray to ensure the cake doesn’t stick.
2. Mix Cake Batter: In a mixing bowl, prepare the cake batter according to the instructions on the German chocolate cake mix box, combining the eggs, vegetable oil, and water thoroughly.
3. Bake First Layer: Pour half of the prepared batter evenly into the greased baking pan. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, until the cake is partially set.
4. Melt Caramel Mixture: While the cake bakes, place the Kraft caramels, butter, and evaporated milk in a medium saucepan over low heat. Stir constantly until the mixture is completely melted and smooth.
5. Apply Caramel Topping: Remove the partially baked cake from the oven and immediately pour the melted caramel mixture evenly over the surface.
6. Add Chocolate Chips and Pecans: Sprinkle the semi-sweet chocolate chips and chopped pecans evenly over the caramel layer.
7. Top with Remaining Batter and Bake: Pour the remaining half of the cake batter evenly over the toppings. Return the cake to the oven and bake for about 20 minutes more, or until the cake is fully set and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
8. Cool and Frost: Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, spread the chocolate frosting evenly over the top before serving.

Notes

• Use unsalted butter for better control of salt levels in the cake.
• Chop pecans roughly for a nice texture contrast but avoid making them too fine.
• Make sure to stir the caramel mixture constantly to prevent burning and ensure smooth melt.
• Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting to prevent frosting from melting.
• This cake stores well covered at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to 5 days.

Keywords: Turtle cake, German chocolate cake, caramel cake, chocolate pecan cake, easy dessert, layered cake