Step-by-step instructions
Here’s how to give your loved ones a sweet surprise!
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- Mix dry ingredients in a large mixing bowl: combine flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
- Incorporate wet ingredients: add milk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until the batter is smooth and well combined.
- Bake the cake: Pour the batter into your prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.
- Poke holes in the cake: After pulling it from the oven, let it cool slightly. Use a fork to poke holes all across the top.
- Soak it with caramel: Pour caramel sauce over the warm cake, allowing it to seep into the holes.
- Add the chocolate sauce: Drizzle with chocolate sauce and sprinkle the chopped pecans on top.
- Cool down completely: Let the cake cool to room temperature before serving.
- Serve with whipped cream: Top individual servings with a generous dollop of whipped cream.
Best ways to enjoy it
This cake shines when served with a dollop of whipped cream on top, adding a light creamy contrast to the rich chocolate and caramel. For an extra touch, consider garnishing it with more chopped pecans or a light drizzle of caramel sauce for visual appeal. Serve it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for that classic à la mode experience. It’s also excellent with a cup of coffee or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to balance the sweetness.
How to store
To keep your Gooey Caramel Turtle Poke Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to keep it for longer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week. Make sure to cover it well to prevent it from drying out.
If you have any leftovers, it also freezes beautifully! Just wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap before sealing them in a freezer-safe bag, and they can last up to three months. Just remember to let it thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Pro chef tips
- Use high-quality chocolate: The chocolate sauce is a dominant flavor, so opt for a rich, good-quality chocolate.
- Make it ahead: This cake tastes even better the next day when the flavors have melded, so bake it a day before your event!
- Experiment with toppings: Feel free to change up the toppings. Try a sprinkle of sea salt for a sweet-and-salty combo, or swap the pecans for crushed Oreos for a fun twist.
Creative twists
Why stick to the classic when you can jazz it up? Here are some variations to try:
- Peanut Butter Swirl: For nut butter lovers, swirl in some peanut butter alongside the chocolate sauce.
- Fruit Delight: Top the cake with fresh strawberries or bananas for a fruity twist.
- Spice it Up: Incorporate a dash of cinnamon or cayenne powder in the batter for a spicy surprise.
FAQs
How long does it take to prepare?
Prep time is about 15 minutes, plus 30-35 minutes of baking time. After poking holes and adding toppings, let it cool for an hour before serving.
Can I substitute ingredients?
Absolutely! You can use gluten-free flour or coconut oil instead of vegetable oil if needed.
How do I reheat leftovers?
If you want to enjoy warm slices again, simply microwave a piece for 15-20 seconds until heated through.
Whether it’s a special occasion or a simple sweet craving, Gooey Caramel Turtle Poke Cake provides a rich, comforting experience that will keep you coming back for more!
