How To Make Texas Turtle Sheet Cake

If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert that’s rich, indulgent, and easy to make, this Texas Turtle Sheet Cake is the answer. Combining the classic flavors of a turtle candy—chocolate, caramel, and pecans—this cake is moist, fudgy, and topped with a luscious caramel frosting and crunchy pecans. Perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or just satisfying your sweet tooth, this cake is a Southern classic that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Texas Turtle Sheet Cake Recipe

Rich and Decadent: A chocolate lover’s dream with caramel and pecans.
Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps.
Feeds a Crowd: Perfect for parties and gatherings.

Southern Comfort: A classic dessert that’s sure to impress.

Texas Turtle Sheet Cake Recipe

Ingredients

For the Cake:

2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1 cup (240ml) unsalted butter
1 cup (240ml) water
1/4 cup (25g) unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup (120ml) buttermilk
2 large eggs

1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Caramel Frosting:

1/2 cup (120ml) unsalted butter

1/4 cup (60ml) milk
1 cup (200g) packed brown sugar
2 cups (250g) powdered sugar

1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Topping:

1 cup (120g) chopped pecans

1/2 cup (120ml) caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking pan and set aside.

2. Make the Cake Batter:

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together sugar, flour, baking soda, and salt.
In a saucepan, combine butter, water, and cocoa powder. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly.
Pour the hot mixture over the dry ingredients and mix until combined.

Add buttermilk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.

3. Bake the Cake:

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.

Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

4. Prepare the Caramel Frosting:

In a saucepan, combine butter, milk, and brown sugar. Bring to a boil and cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
Remove from heat and whisk in powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth.

5. Assemble the Cake:

While the cake is still warm, pour the caramel frosting over the top and spread evenly.

Sprinkle chopped pecans over the frosting and drizzle with caramel sauce.

6. Cool and Serve:

Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing. Serve and enjoy!

Tips for the Best Texas Turtle Sheet Cake

Use high-quality cocoa powder for a rich chocolate flavor.
Don’t overbake the cake – it should be moist and fudgy.
Toast the pecans for extra flavor and crunch.
Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.

Why This Recipe is a Keeper

This Texas Turtle Sheet Cake is the ultimate dessert for chocolate and caramel lovers. It’s easy to make, feeds a crowd, and is packed with flavor and texture. Whether you’re serving it at a party or enjoying it as a special treat, this cake is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.