1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Prepare the Cake Batter:
– In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
– In another bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
– Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined and no lumps remain.
3. Bake the Cake:
– Pour the cake batter into the prepared cake pan and spread it evenly.
– Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
– Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
4. Make the Caramel Sauce:
– In a medium saucepan, heat the granulated sugar over medium heat, stirring constantly with a whisk or wooden spoon.
– As the sugar melts, it will clump together and then turn into a smooth amber-colored liquid.
– Once the sugar has melted completely and turned golden brown, add the butter and stir until melted and combined.
– Slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring continuously until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
– Remove the caramel sauce from the heat and stir in a pinch of salt. Let it cool slightly.
5. Assemble the Cake:
– Place the cooled cake on a serving platter or cake stand.
– Drizzle the warm caramel sauce over the top of the cake, allowing it to drip down the sides.
– Sprinkle the chopped and toasted pecans over the caramel sauce.
– Scatter chocolate chips or chocolate shavings over the top for an extra indulgent touch.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
– Slice the Turtle Caramel Cake into generous portions and serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, if desired.
– Indulge in the rich flavors and luxurious textures of this decadent dessert, savoring every sweet and satisfying bite.
With its luscious layers of chocolate cake, gooey caramel sauce, crunchy pecans, and indulgent chocolate, our Turtle Caramel Cake is a dessert dream come true. Whether you’re treating yourself to a slice or sharing it with loved ones, this cake is sure to be a hit at any gathering or celebration. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to embark on a culinary adventure filled with sweet satisfaction and irresistible charm. Let the indulgence begin!
