Description
Hello, cake enthusiasts! Welcome to a journey of rich, indulgent flavors with our Decadent Chocolate Turtle Dream Cake recipe. This 4-layer chocolate caramel pecan turtle cake brings together everything you love about dessert: gooey caramel, velvety chocolate ganache, and crunchy pecans, all wrapped up in a dreamy cake! Get ready to wow your taste buds with this stunning creation.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder (use high-quality for deeper flavor)
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 large eggs (at room temperature for better blending)
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup buttermilk (or a buttermilk substitute if needed)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup hot water
- 2 cups caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 1/4 cups chopped pecans (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate ganache
Optional substitutions: Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-sensitive version, or substitute coconut oil for vegetable oil for a unique flavor.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pans and Preheat
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour four 8-inch round cake pans. This helps the cake layers release smoothly.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
Add eggs, vegetable oil, buttermilk, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until smooth and well incorporated.
Step 4: Gradually Add Hot Water
Slowly add hot water to the batter, stirring carefully to avoid splashes. This step helps create a light, moist crumb in the cake.
Step 5: Divide and Bake
Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool the cakes in their pans for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 6: Layer the Cake with Caramel
Place the first layer on a serving plate and generously spread caramel sauce over the top. Repeat with the second and third layers, adding caramel between each layer.
Step 7: Add the Final Layer and Ganache
Place the fourth layer on top. Pour chocolate ganache over the cake, allowing it to drip over the edges. Sprinkle extra chopped pecans on top for garnish, if desired.
Equipment

2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
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Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
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- Tip 1: For extra richness, refrigerate the layers for 30 minutes before assembly. This makes the cake sturdier when layering with caramel.
- Tip 2: If you prefer a stronger caramel flavor, drizzle extra caramel on top of each slice.
- Tip 3: Allow the ganache to cool slightly before pouring to control the drip for a more polished look.