Name: Gooey Chocolate Caramel Turtle Cake Roll
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup cocoa powder; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/4 tsp salt; 4 large eggs; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup vegetable oil; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 cup caramel sauce; 1/2 cup pecan halves, chopped; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips; Extra pecan halves for garnish

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About this recipe

This cake roll gives you a soft chocolate cake with sweet caramel and crunchy pecans. It looks rich and it tastes warm and gooey. You can learn the base roll idea from a simple cake roll guide if you want more help with the roll step.

why make this recipe

Make this cake when you want a showy dessert that still feels home made. It uses common items and does not need hard skill. The mix of chocolate, caramel, and pecans makes a nice contrast of soft, sweet, and crunchy. If you like caramel and toffee, see a similar idea here: chocolate caramel toffee crunch.

how to make Gooey Chocolate Caramel Turtle Cake Roll

You make the cake, roll it, fill it with caramel and nuts, and add a chocolate top. Work while the cake is warm for an easy roll. For a creamier fill idea, you can read a close recipe here: creamy version.

Ingredients :

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup cocoa powder
1 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
4 large eggs
1 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup vegetable oil
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 cup caramel sauce
1/2 cup pecan halves, chopped
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Extra pecan halves for garnish

For another roll with nuts you can look at this German chocolate roll for ideas.

Directions :

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease it.
In a bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Set it aside.
In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together until light and fluffy.
Add the vegetable oil and vanilla extract to the egg mixture and mix well.
Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined.
Pour the batter onto the prepared baking sheet and spread it evenly.
Bake for about 12-15 minutes or until the cake is set.
While the cake is still warm, carefully roll it up in the parchment paper and let it cool completely.
Unroll the cake and spread the caramel sauce over the top. Sprinkle the chopped pecans on top of the caramel.
Roll the cake back up, this time without the parchment paper, and place it seam-side down.
In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream until it starts to simmer. Pour it over the chocolate chips and let it sit for 2 minutes. Stir until smooth.
Pour the chocolate ganache over the cake roll and garnish with extra pecan halves.
Let the cake set before slicing and serving.

how to serve Gooey Chocolate Caramel Turtle Cake Roll

Cut the roll into even slices. Serve on a small plate. Add a spoon of extra caramel if you like. A cup of strong coffee or milk goes well with each slice.

how to store Gooey Chocolate Caramel Turtle Cake Roll

Wrap the roll in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight box. Keep it in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer keep, you can freeze slices in a sealed bag for up to 2 months.

tips to make Gooey Chocolate Caramel Turtle Cake Roll

Use fresh eggs and warm the bowl a bit to help the eggs beat well.
Roll the cake while it is warm to avoid cracks.
Heat the caramel a little if it is thick so it spreads well.
Toast the pecans for extra flavor.
For more gooey ideas, check this gooey coffee caramel cake.

variation (if any)

Swap pecans for walnuts or almonds.
Use salted caramel for a sweet-salt mix.
Add a thin layer of whipped cream under the caramel for a lighter bite.
Try dark chocolate for the ganache for a deeper flavor.

FAQs

Q: Can I make the cake roll ahead?
A: Yes. Make it a day before and keep it in the fridge, wrapped well.

Q: Can I use store-bought caramel?
A: Yes. Store caramel works fine and cuts time.

Q: What if my cake cracks when I roll it?
A: Do the first roll while it is warm and roll with the parchment. Small cracks will hide under the filling.

Q: Can I skip the ganache?
A: Yes. The caramel and nuts still make a tasty roll without ganache.

Q: How do I warm the caramel if it is thick?
A: Heat it in short bursts in the microwave or warm it in a small pan while stirring.

Conclusion

If you want a clear how-to with extra tips on cake roll steps, see this How to Make a Cake Roll with Box Cake Mix – Crazy for Crust.