Cooking Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×13 baking dish by greasing it lightly to prevent sticking.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the German chocolate cake mix, eggs, whole milk, and canola oil. Using a hand mixer, mix until the batter is smooth and well combined.
Pour half of the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. This will serve as the base layer for your cake.
While the cake base is baking, prepare the caramel layer. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the caramel bits, a couple of tablespoons of butter, and about 1/2 cup of evaporated milk. Stir continuously until the mixture is melted and creamy.
Once the base layer has baked for 15 minutes, remove it from the oven and pour the caramel mixture evenly over the top.
Sprinkle semi-sweet chocolate chips and chopped pecans over the caramel layer, ensuring even distribution.
Pour the remaining half of the cake batter over the chocolate and pecans, carefully covering them.
Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 20-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean.
Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the pan before slicing and serving. If desired, top with chocolate fudge frosting for an extra indulgence.
Extra Tips
For the best results, make sure your ingredients are at room temperature before mixing, as this helps create a smoother batter. Additionally, this cake features a super moist texture that enhances the overall enjoyment.
If you want to experiment, consider substituting the caramel with butterscotch or peanut butter sauce for a unique twist.
Don't hesitate to add a sprinkle of additional chocolate chips or nuts on top after baking for added texture and flavor. Enjoy your Turtle Caramel Cake!