Ingredients

Scale

For the Cake

- 1 box (18 oz) German chocolate cake mix

- 1 ⅓ cups water (or amount listed on cake mix box)

- ⅓ cup oil (or amount listed on cake mix box)

- 3 eggs (or amount listed on cake mix box)

For the Turtle Filling

- 1 (14 oz) bag caramels, unwrapped

- ½ cup evaporated milk

- ¾ cup butter, melted

For the Topping

- 1 cup chocolate chips

- 2 cups pecans (1 cup for the middle, 1 cup optional for garnish)

Instructions

Prepare the Cake Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare the German chocolate cake mix according to the package directions using the water, oil, and eggs.

Bake the First Layer

Pour half of the prepared cake batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan. Spread evenly and bake for 15 minutes. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool slightly.

Make the Caramel Filling

While the cake cools, place the caramels, evaporated milk, and melted butter into a double boiler or saucepan over low heat. Stir constantly until the mixture is fully melted, smooth, and creamy.

Assemble the Layers

Pour the warm caramel mixture evenly over the partially baked cake layer. Sprinkle 1 cup of pecans and all of the chocolate chips evenly over the caramel.

Add the Final Cake Layer

Carefully spoon and spread the remaining cake batter over the caramel and toppings, covering as evenly as possible.

Finish Baking

Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the top is set and a toothpick inserted near the edge comes out mostly clean.