Indulge in Decadence with This Gooey Caramel Turtle Poke Cake!
Looking for a dessert that’s delicious, easy to make, and packed with gooey caramel goodness? This Gooey Caramel Turtle Poke Cake is a dream come true for caramel and chocolate lovers alike! Combining a rich chocolate base, creamy caramel filling, and crunchy pecans, this dessert offers a perfect mix of flavors and textures. Whether you’re a beginner or a baking pro, this recipe is a breeze to whip up and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 box chocolate cake mix 🍫
- ½ cup vegetable oil 🛢️
- 3 large eggs 🥚
- 1 ¼ cups water 💧
For the Filling and Topping:
- 1 jar (12 oz) caramel sauce 🍮
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk 🥛
- 1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping, thawed 🍦
- 1 cup chopped pecans 🌰
- 1 cup chocolate chips 🍫
- 6-8 mini caramel turtle candies, chopped 🐢🍬
Instructions
- Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. 🧑🍳
- Prepare the Cake Batter: In a large bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, vegetable oil, eggs, and water. Stir until smooth and free of lumps. 🍰
- Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let the cake cool for 10 minutes. ⏳
- Poke the Cake: Use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes all over the cake. These holes will help the caramel mixture soak into the cake, making it ultra-moist and flavorful. 🕳️
- Add the Caramel Filling: Mix the caramel sauce and sweetened condensed milk in a small bowl. Pour this mixture over the cake, ensuring it fills the holes. Let it sit for a few minutes to absorb. 🥄
- Top with Whipped Topping: Spread the thawed whipped topping evenly over the entire cake surface. 🍦
- Sprinkle the Toppings: Sprinkle chopped pecans and chocolate chips over the whipped topping for added crunch and chocolatey flavor. 🌰🍫
- Add the Turtle Candies: Top with chopped caramel turtle candies for extra gooey caramel goodness. 🐢🍬
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving. Chilling allows the flavors to meld and creates a rich, indulgent dessert. ❄️
Tips for the Perfect Poke Cake
- Let it Chill: While it’s tempting to dig right in, this cake is best served cold! The chilling time allows the flavors to blend, making each bite irresistible.
- Get Creative with Toppings: Try adding a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce over the whipped topping for extra flair.
- Use Homemade Whipped Cream: If you prefer, use freshly whipped cream instead of store-bought topping for a lighter touch.
FAQ
- Can I make this cake ahead of time? \n Yes! This cake is actually even better when made a day in advance, as the flavors develop overnight.
- Can I use other nuts instead of pecans? \n Absolutely! Walnuts or almonds work great as well.
- What if I can’t find turtle candies? \n Any caramel-filled candy can be substituted to add a similar taste and texture.
Serving Suggestions
Cut the cake into 12 generous slices for a dessert that’s perfect for sharing. It’s ideal for special occasions, holiday gatherings, or just a well-deserved treat.
Storage Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Enjoy each slice chilled for the best texture and flavor.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 30 minutes | Chill Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes | Servings: 12 slices
This Gooey Caramel Turtle Poke Cake combines rich chocolate, creamy caramel, and crunchy pecans for a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Give it a try, and let us know what you think!