Texas Turtle Sheet Cake takes a classic chocolate sheet cake and elevates it with gooey caramel, crunchy pecans, and a luscious chocolate glaze. Perfect for feeding a crowd, this easy dessert is a decadent combination of rich flavors and textures. It’s the ultimate treat for chocolate and caramel lovers alike, ideal for parties, potlucks, or family gatherings.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup water
• 3 tbsp cocoa powder
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup buttermilk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Caramel Layer:

• 1 cup caramel sauce
• 1 cup chopped pecans

For the Chocolate Glaze:

• ½ cup unsalted butter
• 3 tbsp cocoa powder
• 6 tbsp milk
• 3½ cups powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch sheet pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Make the Cake Batter:
   In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt. In a medium saucepan, combine the butter, water, and cocoa powder. Heat over medium until the butter melts and the mixture is smooth. Pour the warm cocoa mixture into the dry ingredients and stir to combine. Add the eggs, buttermilk, and vanilla, mixing until smooth.
3. Bake the Cake:
   Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
4. Add the Caramel Layer:
   While the cake is still warm, drizzle the caramel sauce evenly over the top. Sprinkle with chopped pecans, pressing them lightly into the caramel.
5. Prepare the Chocolate Glaze:
   In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the cocoa powder and milk, whisking until smooth. Remove from heat and gradually add the powdered sugar, whisking to avoid lumps. Stir in the vanilla extract.
6. Glaze the Cake:
   Pour the chocolate glaze over the caramel layer, spreading evenly with a spatula. Let the cake cool to allow the glaze to set before slicing and serving.

Notes

• Pecan Substitutions: If you’re not a fan of pecans, try walnuts or omit the nuts altogether for a nut-free version.
• Shortcut Tip: Use store-bought caramel sauce for convenience or make your own for a richer flavor.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
• Double It: This recipe can easily be doubled for a larger crowd by using a bigger sheet pan.

Rich, indulgent, and packed with irresistible flavors, this Easy Texas Turtle Sheet Cake is sure to become a favorite dessert for every occasion!