Caramel Chocolate Turtle Dessert (Print Format)

A warm dessert featuring caramel, dark chocolate, and pecans atop a moist chocolate base.

# Ingredients:

→ Cake Base

01 - 1 box (3.4 oz) instant chocolate pudding mix
02 - 1½ cups whole milk
03 - 1 box (15.25 oz) dry chocolate cake mix

→ Add-ins

04 - 1 cup dark chocolate chips
05 - ½ cup caramel sauce or syrup

→ Toppings

06 - ½ cup chopped pecans
07 - ½ cup dark chocolate chips

# Steps:

01 - Preheat the oven to 350°F. Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking pan with nonstick cooking spray and set aside.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the instant chocolate pudding mix and whole milk until fully combined and slightly thickened, about one minute.
03 - Add the dry chocolate cake mix, 1 cup dark chocolate chips, and caramel sauce into the pudding mixture. Stir gently with a wooden spoon or spatula until just combined.
04 - Evenly spread the batter into the prepared baking pan using a spatula or spoon.
05 - Sprinkle the chopped pecans and remaining ½ cup chocolate chips evenly over the batter surface.
06 - Bake for 25 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs and the edges have pulled away slightly from the pan.
07 - Let the cake cool briefly, then serve warm. Optionally, top with vanilla bean ice cream, additional caramel sauce, or chopped pecans.

# Tips:

01 - Use instant chocolate pudding mix rather than cook-and-serve for best texture. The caramel sauce should be in liquid form before mixing.
02 - This dessert is best served warm with cold vanilla ice cream to balance flavors and texture.
03 - Leftovers can be stored covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for up to 4-5 days. Reheat prior to serving.