Turtle Cake from Scratch

Indulge in the decadence of a homemade Turtle Cake from Scratch—a luscious dessert that combines rich chocolate layers, gooey caramel, crunchy pecans, and a velvety chocolate ganache. This show-stopping cake is made entirely from scratch, using simple pantry ingredients like cocoa powder and flour, and topped with a glossy homemade ganache for an extra touch of elegance. Perfect for special occasions, this caramel-pecan chocolate cake strikes the perfect balance between sweet and indulgent, while its stunning presentation is sure to impress guests. Whether you're celebrating a birthday or simply craving a dessert masterpiece, this turtle cake delivers layers of flavor and texture that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Nutriscore Rating: 50/100

Prep Time:30 mins

Cook Time:35 mins

Total Time:65 mins

Servings: 12

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 0.75 cups unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1.5 teaspoons baking powder
• 1.5 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• 0.5 cups vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1.5 cups caramel sauce
• 1.5 cups pecans
• 1.5 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 0.75 cups heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons butter (optional, for ganache)

Directions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and lightly flour two 9-inch round cake pans, then set aside.

Step 2

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Step 3

Add the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Beat on medium speed until well combined, about 2 minutes.

Step 4

Reduce the mixer to low speed and carefully add the boiling water, mixing until the batter is smooth. The batter will be thin, which is normal.

Step 5

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 6

Cool the cakes in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 7

Once the cakes are completely cool, carefully level the tops of the cakes using a serrated knife if necessary.

Step 8

Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread 3/4 cup of caramel sauce evenly across the surface. Sprinkle 3/4 cup of chopped pecans over the caramel.

Step 9

Place the second cake layer on top. Repeat by spreading another 3/4 cup of caramel sauce over the top layer and sprinkle with the remaining pecans.

Step 10

To prepare the ganache, heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Remove from heat and pour over the semi-sweet chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl. Let sit for 5 minutes, then stir until smooth. Stir in butter if desired for a glossy finish.

Step 11

Allow the ganache to cool slightly, then pour it over the top of the cake, letting it drip down the sides for a dramatic effect.

Step 12

Let the ganache set for about 15 minutes before slicing and serving the cake.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	2633.2 grams (2633.2g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	8492

Total Fat 467.30g	599%
Saturated Fat 172.40g	862%
Polyunsaturated Fat 101.70g
Cholesterol 811mg	270%
Sodium 7169mg	312%
Total Carbohydrate 1133.80g	412%
Dietary Fiber 102.20g	365%
Total Sugars 792.00g
Protein 117.60g	235%

Vitamin D 223IU	1113%
Calcium 931mg	72%
Iron 51mg	286%
Potassium 4403mg	94%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 45.7%

Protein: 5.1%

Carbs: 49.2%