Experience the decadent delight of this Texas Turtle Sheet Cake, combining rich chocolate cake, gooey caramel, crunchy pecans, and a smooth chocolate ganache. This indulgent dessert is perfect for any occasion and sure to impress!
📋 Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 🍫 1 cup unsalted butter
- 💧 1 cup water
- 🍫 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 🍚 2 cups granulated sugar
- 🍞 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 🌿 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 🧂 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 🥛 1/2 cup sour cream
- 🥚 2 large eggs
- 🍦 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Caramel Layer:
- 🍬 1 cup caramel bits or soft caramels, unwrapped
- 🥛 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- 🌰 1 cup chopped pecans
For the Chocolate Ganache:
- 🍫 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- 🥛 1/2 cup heavy cream
For Garnish:
- 🍬 Additional caramel drizzle (optional)
- 🌰 Additional chopped pecans (optional)
📝 Directions:
Prepare the Cake:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan or a baking sheet with a rim.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the butter, water, and cocoa powder. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the butter is melted and the mixture is smooth. Remove from heat.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Pour the cocoa mixture into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
- Add the sour cream, eggs, and vanilla extract to the bowl and mix until smooth.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan.
Prepare the Caramel Layer:
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the caramel bits and heavy cream. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval, until the caramels are melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Stir in the chopped pecans.
- Spread the caramel-pecan mixture evenly over the cooled cake.
Prepare the Chocolate Ganache:
- Place the chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl.
- In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate chips and let it sit for 2-3 minutes.
- Stir the mixture until the chocolate is completely melted and the ganache is smooth.
Assemble the Cake:
- Pour the chocolate ganache over the caramel layer and spread it evenly.
- Allow the ganache to set for at least 1 hour at room temperature, or refrigerate for 30 minutes for quicker setting.
Garnish and Serve:
- Drizzle additional caramel over the top and sprinkle with more chopped pecans, if desired.
- Cut into squares and serve.
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes (including cooling and setting time)
Servings: 20 servings
Calories: 350 kcal per serving
💡 Notes:
- For an extra touch, you can sprinkle sea salt over the caramel layer before adding the ganache.
- This cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to a week.
- If you prefer a thicker ganache layer, you can double the ganache ingredients.
Enjoy your indulgent and delicious Texas Turtle Sheet Cake! 🍫✨🍽️