Turtle Chocolate Layer Cake

Turtle Chocolate Layer Cake

Ingredients:

For the Chocolate Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup boiling water

For the Caramel Sauce:

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cubed
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Chocolate Ganache:

• 8 ounces semisweet chocolate, chopped
• 1 cup heavy cream

For the Turtle Toppings:

• 1 cup chopped pecans, toasted
• 1 cup caramel bits or soft caramel candies
• 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans.
In a large bowl, sift together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes. Stir in boiling water.
Pour batter evenly into prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let cakes cool in pans for 10 minutes, then remove from pans and transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
Pour chocolate ganache over the top layer of the cake, allowing it to drip down the sides.
Chill cake in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to allow the ganache to set.
Slice and serve. Enjoy!

Prep Time: 30 minutes | Baking Time: 30-35 minutes | Total Time: Approximately 2 hours
Kcal: 480 kcal | Servings: 12 servings