Chocolate Caramel Turtle Cake Roll

introduction

This cake roll looks rich and fun. It has soft chocolate cake, sweet caramel buttercream, glossy chocolate, and crunchy pecans. Many people like this mix of tastes and textures. You can also see a similar cake roll idea here: chocolate cake roll.

why make this recipe

You can make this cake roll fast with a box mix. You get a fancy dessert with small work. Kids and grown ups like the sweet caramel and chocolate mix. If you like nuts and a bit of crunch, this cake works well. You may also like this related treat: chocolate caramel toffee crunch cake.

how to make Chocolate Caramel Turtle Cake Roll

I give clear steps below so you can make this at home. Read each step and set your tools and pans first. For another take on rich chocolate filling, see this note: creamy chocolate caramel cake.

Ingredients :

• 3 large eggs
• 1 3/4 cups Chocolate Cake Mix (like Betty Crocker SuperMoist)
• 1/3 cup water
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon powdered sugar (for rolling)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/4 cup caramel sauce
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1 cup chocolate chips
• 1 cup chopped toasted pecans

Directions :

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a jelly roll pan by lining a 15×10-inch pan with parchment paper and lightly greasing it.
In a large bowl, beat the eggs on high for 2-3 minutes until they are pale and fluffy. Add the chocolate cake mix, water, and vegetable oil. Mix until smooth.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cake springs back when lightly touched.
Once out of the oven, immediately flip the cake onto a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar. Peel off the parchment paper, then roll the cake up with the towel from a short end. Let it cool completely.
Cream the softened butter until smooth. Add caramel sauce, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat until light and fluffy. In a small saucepan, heat the heavy whipping cream until it begins to simmer. Remove from heat and pour it over chocolate chips in a bowl. Let it sit for 1-2 minutes, then whisk until smooth and glossy.
Unroll the cooled cake from the towel. Evenly spread the caramel buttercream over the cake’s surface. Roll the cake back up (without the towel), and place it seam-side down on a serving plate. Pour the chocolate ganache over the rolled cake, allowing it to drip down the sides. Sprinkle the chopped toasted pecans on top of the ganache. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set the ganache.

how to serve Chocolate Caramel Turtle Cake Roll

Cut the roll in even slices with a sharp knife. Serve on a small plate. Add a small spoon of extra caramel or a few extra pecans if you like. For a different serving idea with chocolate layers, you can look here: German chocolate cake roll.

how to store Chocolate Caramel Turtle Cake Roll

Cover the cake with plastic wrap or place it in a tight container. Keep it in the fridge for up to 4 days. If you want to freeze it, wrap slices tight in foil and place them in a freezer bag for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before you eat.

tips to make Chocolate Caramel Turtle Cake Roll

• Beat the eggs well. That gives the cake a light lift.
• Roll the warm cake with the towel to set the shape. This keeps the cake from cracking.
• Cool fully before you add the buttercream. Warm cake will melt the filling.
• Use good chocolate for the ganache. That makes the top smooth and nice.
• Toast the pecans for a better nut taste. See a different dessert for more nut ideas: caramel apple cheesecake bars.

variation (if any)

• Make the filling lighter by folding whipped cream into the caramel buttercream.
• Swap pecans for chopped walnuts or toffee bits for a crunch change.
• Use a different box cake mix like devil’s food for a richer cake.

FAQs

Q: Can I use a different cake mix?
A: Yes. You can use any chocolate cake mix you like. The bake time stays about the same.

Q: Can I make the ganache ahead?
A: Yes. Make ganache and cool it in the fridge. Warm it a bit before you pour it over the cake.

Q: Can I skip the pecans?
A: Yes. You can skip them or use another nut. The cake still tastes full and sweet.

Q: How thin should I slice the roll?
A: Cut slices about 1 inch thick for good pieces. Use a sharp, clean knife.

Conclusion

For a full how-to and more tips on cake rolls like this one, see How to Make a Cake Roll with Box Cake Mix – Crazy for Crust.