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Gooey Chocolate Caramel Turtle Cake Roll

A delightful dessert that combines rich chocolate, gooey caramel, and crunchy toasted pecans in a soft cake roll, perfect for impressing family and friends.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time12 minutes
Total Time27 minutes
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Cake Roll, Caramel Cake, Chocolate Cake, Pecan Dessert, Sweet Treat
Servings: 8 servings
Calories: 250kcal

Ingredients

Cake Ingredients

  • 3/4 cup all-purpose flour Provides the structure for the cake.
  • 1/4 cup cocoa powder Adds chocolatey richness.
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder Ensures the cake rises perfectly.
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt Enhances the sweetness.
  • 4 large eggs Provides moisture and binding.
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar Essential for sweetness.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Adds aromatic flavor.
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for rolling) Prevents sticking.

Filling Ingredients

  • 1 cup caramel sauce The star ingredient.
  • 1 cup chopped pecans, toasted Adds crunch and nutty flavor.
  • 1 cup whipped cream or vanilla ice cream (optional, for serving) Balances the richness.

Instructions

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 10x15 inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper.
  • In a bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
  • In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar until pale and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract.
  • Fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture until just combined, being careful not to over-mix.

Baking

  • Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cake springs back when lightly touched.
  • While the cake bakes, sprinkle powdered sugar over a clean kitchen towel.

Rolling

  • Once the cake is baked, invert it onto the prepared towel and carefully peel off the parchment paper.
  • Starting from a short end, roll the cake up with the towel inside, and cool completely on a wire rack.

Filling & Serving

  • Once cooled, unroll the cake and spread the caramel sauce evenly over the surface.
  • Sprinkle with chopped, toasted pecans, then roll the cake again without the towel, seam side down.
  • Slice and serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.

Notes

Sift the dry ingredients for a lighter cake. Use room temperature eggs for fluffier batter. Don’t overbake to prevent dryness. Fresh caramel elevates flavor.