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If you're in search of a dessert that combines indulgence with nostalgia, look no further than the Gooey Caramel Turtle Poke Cake. This delightful treat merges the flavors of rich chocolate, creamy caramel, and crunchy pecans, creating a cake that is as visually appealing as it is delicious. The poke cake concept is a masterful technique that transforms a simple cake into a gooey, flavor-packed experience, making it a favorite among dessert lovers.

Gooey Caramel Turtle Poke Cake

Discover the ultimate indulgence with the Gooey Caramel Turtle Poke Cake, a delightful dessert that combines rich chocolate, creamy caramel, and crunchy pecans. Perfect for any occasion, this moist and gooey cake is infused with caramel sauce and topped with a luscious cream cheese mixture, creating an irresistible treat. Easy to prepare and sure to impress, it’s the ideal addition to gatherings, celebrations, or a cozy night at home. Enjoy every comforting bite!
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Ingredients
  

For the Cake:

1 box (15.25 oz) chocolate cake mix (plus ingredients required on the box)

1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

For the Caramel Sauce:

1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)

For the Cream Cheese Mixture:

8 oz cream cheese, softened

1 cup powdered sugar

1/4 cup milk

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Topping:

1/2 cup chopped pecans

Sea salt, for garnish (optional)

Whipped cream or Cool Whip (optional for serving)

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Instructions
 

Prepare the Cake:

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

      - In a large mixing bowl, prepare the chocolate cake mix according to the package instructions, adding the required eggs, oil, and water. Stir well until combined.

        - Gently fold in the chocolate chips for an extra chocolaty layer.

          - Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for about 15 minutes.

            Poke the Cake:

              - Once the cake has cooled slightly, use the handle of a wooden spoon or a straw to poke holes all over the surface of the cake (about 1-inch apart). Be generous with the poking, as this helps the caramel soak into the cake.

                Add Caramel Sauce:

                  - While the cake is still warm, pour the caramel sauce over the holes you created, allowing it to seep into the cake. Use a spatula to help spread it evenly if necessary. Let the cake cool completely.

                    Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture:

                      - In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until well combined. Then add the milk and vanilla extract, mixing until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

                        Finish the Cake:

                          - Once the cake is completely cooled, spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the top of the cake.

                            - Sprinkle the chopped pecans over the cream cheese layer. For an extra touch, you can drizzle additional caramel sauce on top and sprinkle a pinch of sea salt if desired.

                              Serve:

                                - Slice and serve the cake chilled or at room temperature with whipped cream or Cool Whip if you like. Enjoy the rich flavors of chocolate, caramel, and crunchy pecans with every bite!

                                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 mins | 1 hr | 12 servings