Chocolate Caramel Turtle Poke Cake
An ultra-decadent treat for serious chocolate fans, this Chocolate Caramel Turtle Poke Cake combines rich chocolate cake with a luscious caramel infusion, then layers on a topping of melty chocolate, crisp pecans, and a lavish caramel drizzle. A luxurious, crowd-pleasing dessert perfect for celebrations or indulgent nights in.
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Servings: 12
Ingredients
Cake Base
- 3 whole eggs large
- 1/2 cup neutral oil such as vegetable
- 1 cup plain water
- 1 box 15.25 ounces of chocolate fudge-flavored cake mix
Caramel Soaking Mixture
- 1 cup thick caramel sauce either homemade or pre-packaged
- 1 can 14 ounces of sweetened condensed milk
Toppings
- 1 ½ cups semi-sweet chocolate morsels
- 1 cup extra caramel sauce for a generous drizzle
- 1 ½ cups chopped pecans lightly toasted
- Optional: 1 cup whipped cream or non-dairy whipped topping for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly coat a 9x13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or grease.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the boxed cake mix with water, oil, and eggs. Whisk or beat until the batter is completely smooth and lump-free. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 28 to 32 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Remove the cake from the oven.
- While still hot, use the handle end of a wooden spoon to poke holes throughout the cake, spacing them about an inch apart.
- In a separate bowl, blend together the caramel sauce and sweetened condensed milk. Gradually pour this over the surface of the cake, ensuring the mixture seeps well into the holes.
- Allow the cake to cool to room temperature, then place it in the refrigerator for at least one hour to allow the caramel mixture to set properly.
- Once chilled, scatter the chocolate chips and toasted pecans evenly across the top of the cake.
- Drizzle the remaining caramel sauce generously over the toppings in a decorative pattern.
- Cut the cake into individual squares. If desired, top each serving with a spoonful of whipped topping for added creaminess.
Notes
For added texture, consider chilling the cake before serving to firm up the layers. Toasting the pecans brings out a deeper flavor and enhances the crunch.