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Gooey Chocolate Caramel Turtle Cake Roll

This decadent cake roll is filled with rich caramel and crunchy pecans, creating an unforgettable dessert experience for any occasion.
Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time12 minutes
Total Time32 minutes
Course: Dessert, Sweet Treat
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Cake Roll, Caramel Dessert, Chocolate Cake, Decadent Dessert, Pecan Dessert
Servings: 10 servings
Calories: 350kcal

Ingredients

For the cake

  • 3/4 cup all-purpose flour The foundation of the cake, providing a light texture.
  • 1/4 cup cocoa powder Adds a deep, velvety chocolate flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder Key for helping the cake rise.
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt Enhances flavors and balances sweetness.
  • 4 large eggs Contributes to the cake's structure and richness.
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar Provides essential sweetness.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Adds depth and aroma.
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar For rolling to prevent sticking.

For the filling

  • 1 cup caramel sauce The star of the filling for gooey sweetness.
  • 1 cup chopped pecans, toasted Provides crunch and rich, nutty flavor.

For serving

  • 1 cup whipped cream or vanilla ice cream Optional creamy accompaniment.

Instructions

Preparation

  • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a 10x15 inch jelly roll pan by greasing it and lining the bottom with parchment paper.
  • In a mixing bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
  • In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar until pale and fluffy, then mix in the vanilla extract.
  • Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture until just combined.
  • Pour the batter into the prepared jelly roll pan and spread it evenly using a spatula.

Baking

  • Bake the cake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, until it springs back when touched.
  • Sprinkle a clean kitchen towel with powdered sugar while the cake is baking.
  • Immediately invert the cake onto the prepared towel and peel off the parchment paper gently.

Assembly

  • Starting from a short end, gently roll up the cake with the towel and allow it to cool completely on a wire rack.
  • Unroll the cooled cake and spread a layer of caramel sauce, leaving a small border around the edges.
  • Sprinkle the chopped, toasted pecans evenly on the caramel layer.
  • Carefully roll the cake back up without the towel, placing the seam on the underside.
  • Slice into generous portions and serve with whipped cream or ice cream if desired.

Notes

To elevate the cake roll, use room temperature eggs for volume, consider using store-bought caramel for convenience, and decorate with extra caramel and pecans on top before serving.