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Box Mix Turtle Cake Recipe

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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