A decadent, layered dessert that combines rich chocolate, buttery caramel, crunchy pecans, and a moist German chocolate cake base—this 9×13-inch treat is pure indulgence in every bite. Inspired by classic turtle candies, this easy bake delivers all the flavors you love: gooey, nutty, chocolatey, and utterly irresistible.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This isn’t just a sheet cake—it’s a candy bar reborn as dessert. With a soft German chocolate crumb, a molten layer of warm caramel and toasted pecans, and a final drizzle of chocolate frosting, it’s like eating a homemade turtle candy with a fork. The best part? It starts with a cake mix for speed and ease, but tastes like you spent hours baking.
Perfect for:
Holiday desserts (Christmas, Easter, birthdays)
Potlucks and family gatherings
Make-ahead treats
Gifting or sharing with neighbors
🍫 “I brought this to my book club,” said one home cook. “They asked if I’d been baking all day—but it took less than 10 minutes to mix!”
Ingredients
For the Caramel-Pecan Layer
1 (11 oz / 312g) bag caramel bits (like Kraft or Werther’s)
¾ cup (1½ sticks / 170g) unsalted sweet cream butter, melted
½ cup (120ml) evaporated milk
2 cups (200g) chopped pecans, lightly toasted (see tip below)
1 cup (175g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
For the Cake
1 (18.25 oz) box German chocolate cake mix (any brand)
3 large eggs, room temperature
⅓ cup (80ml) canola oil (or vegetable oil)
1 cup (240ml) whole milk
For the Finish
1 container (about 16 oz) chocolate fudge frosting
Extra chocolate chips and chopped pecans, for topping (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
see next page
ADVERTISEMENT
