Gooey Chocolate Caramel Turtle Cake Roll

Step-by-step instructions

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a jelly roll pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together until evenly distributed.
In another bowl, beat the eggs until they are fluffy. Then, add the milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract, mixing until combined.
Gradually mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring until the batter is smooth and well combined.
Pour the batter into your prepared pan, spreading it evenly.
Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and cool for about 10 minutes.
Carefully roll the cake with the parchment paper from one end to the other to form a log. Allow it to cool completely in this rolled shape.
After cooling, gently unroll the cake. Spread a generous amount of caramel sauce over the surface and sprinkle with your chopped nuts.
Roll the cake back up carefully, cover it, and refrigerate for about 30 minutes to help it set.
When ready to serve, slice the cake roll and enjoy with a dollop of whipped cream on top.

Best ways to enjoy it

This Gooey Chocolate Caramel Turtle Cake Roll is best enjoyed chilled, where the flavors have melded beautifully. For a stunning presentation, dust the top of the cake with cocoa powder or drizzle some additional caramel sauce before serving. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or serve alongside fresh fruit for a delightful contrast.

Keeping leftovers fresh

If you find yourself with any leftovers (though that’s a rarity!), store your cake roll in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you’d like to freeze it, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw it in the fridge before serving again for the best texture.

Helpful cooking tips

To ensure your cake rolls perfectly, follow these simple tips! Make sure you roll the cake while it’s still warm; this prevents cracks from forming as it cools. Additionally, using parchment paper makes both baking and rolling easier, so don’t skip that step. If you want an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a pinch of espresso powder to the dry ingredients for a mocha twist!

Creative twists

Why not get a little adventurous? Try adding a layer of raspberry or strawberry jam along with the caramel for a fruity punch. Looking for a nut-free option? Leave out the nuts or swap them with crushed gluten-free cookies for a crunchy topping. You could even drizzle chocolate ganache over the top instead of whipped cream to elevate the presentation!

Common questions

How long does it take to prepare this cake roll?
The entire process takes about 30-40 minutes, plus some time for the roll to chill in the fridge.

Can I substitute the nuts in the recipe?
Absolutely! You can leave out the nuts entirely or replace them with other nuts like almonds or hazelnuts.

Is it safe to eat if I make it ahead of time?
Yes, this cake roll can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator or freezer, making it perfect for meal prep or special occasions.