Gooey Chocolate Caramel Pecan Cake Roll

Overview

This cake roll has soft chocolate cake, sweet caramel, and crunchy pecans. It looks rich but it stays easy to make. You can make it for a treat, a party, or a small dinner. Read on to learn each simple step and make a great dessert. You can also see a similar recipe at this chocolate cake roll for more ideas.

why make this recipe

This recipe gives you a warm, gooey cake with a crisp nut bite. The cake will roll well and hold the caramel inside. You can make it in one pan and slice it to share. Try this if you like rich sweets and soft cake. For a twist, check a related caramel cake idea at this caramel toffee crunch cake.

how to make Gooey Chocolate Caramel Pecan Cake Roll

You mix the dry parts and the wet parts. Then you bake the cake thin in a jelly roll pan. Turn the cake out onto a sugar-dusted towel right away. Spread caramel and nuts, then roll the cake tight. Let it cool while wrapped in the towel. This keeps the cake soft and stops cracks. If you want a creamier filling, read a similar method at this creamy caramel cake.

Ingredients :

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup caramel sauce
• 1 cup chopped pecans
• Powdered sugar for dusting
  You can swap nuts or leave them out if you need. See a nutty roll idea at this German chocolate cake roll.

Directions :

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 15×10-inch jelly roll pan and line it with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and sugar until light and fluffy. Gradually add the buttermilk, oil, and vanilla. Mix well.
4. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly.
6. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. While the cake is baking, prepare a clean kitchen towel by dusting it with powdered sugar.
8. Once the cake is done, remove it from the oven and immediately invert it onto the prepared towel. Remove the parchment paper.
9. Spread the caramel sauce over the cake and sprinkle with chopped pecans.
10. Carefully roll the cake up from one end, using the towel to help.
11. Allow it to cool completely in the towel.
12. Once cooled, unroll it gently, spread any remaining caramel if desired, roll it back up, and chill for about 30 minutes before serving.
13. Dust with powdered sugar before slicing and serving. Enjoy your indulgent dessert!

how to serve Gooey Chocolate Caramel Pecan Cake Roll

Slice the roll into even pieces. Serve on a small plate. Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream if you like. A light dust of powdered sugar makes the slices look nice. For a snack board, place slices with fruit and nuts. You can find serving ideas like this at caramel apple cheesecake bars.

how to store Gooey Chocolate Caramel Pecan Cake Roll

Wrap the cake in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight box. Keep it in the fridge for up to 4 days. If you cut it, store slices flat so they do not fall. You can freeze the roll for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

tips to make Gooey Chocolate Caramel Pecan Cake Roll

• Use fresh eggs and measure the flour well.
• Dust the towel well so the cake does not stick.
• Spread the caramel while the cake is warm but not hot.
• Roll the cake gently but tight to keep the shape.
• Chill the roll so the caramel firms up and slices clean.

variation (if any)

• Use chopped walnuts or almonds instead of pecans.
• Add a thin layer of whipped cream under the caramel for a lighter bite.
• Mix a little sea salt into the caramel for a salted caramel roll.
• Swap caramel for chocolate ganache for a different taste.

FAQs

Q: Can I use a store-bought caramel sauce?
A: Yes. A store sauce works well and saves time.

Q: Can I use a different pan size?
A: Use a similar size pan. A much deeper pan will change bake time and shape.

Q: How do I stop the cake from cracking?
A: Roll the cake while it is warm with the towel. Do not let it cool flat first.

Q: Can I make the cake a day ahead?
A: Yes. Make it the day before and chill it wrapped in plastic.

Q: Can I make this without nuts?
A: Yes. Skip the nuts or add toasted coconut for crunch.

Conclusion

If you want a guide that shows a similar cake roll method with box mix tips, see How to Make a Cake Roll with Box Cake Mix – Crazy for Crust. This link gives useful tips on rolling and fillings that can help with your cake roll.