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Chocolate Turtle Poke Cake Recipe

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3.9 from 4 reviews

This Chocolate Turtle Poke Cake is an indulgent and easy-to-make dessert perfect for chocolate lovers. Moist chocolate cake is baked and then punctured with holes to soak up luscious caramel-flavored sweetened condensed milk. Topped with rich chocolate frosting, chopped pecans, mini chocolate chips, and drizzled with caramel syrup, this poke cake delivers a delightful combination of flavors and textures sure to impress at any gathering.

Ingredients

Cake

  • 1 box chocolate cake mix (15.25 oz), prepared according to package instructions
  • 14 ounces Eagle Brand Caramel Flavored Sweetened Condensed Milk

Topping

  • 16 ounces store-bought chocolate frosting
  • 1 cup chopped pecans
  • 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
  • Caramel syrup, for drizzling

Instructions

  1. Bake the cake: Prepare the chocolate cake mix according to the package instructions. Pour the batter into a greased baking pan and bake as directed. Once baked, allow the cake to cool for 10 minutes to make it easier to handle.
  2. Poke holes in the cake: Using the handle of a wooden spoon, gently punch holes evenly over the entire top of the cake. This allows the caramel milk to seep deeply into the cake layers, adding moisture and flavor.
  3. Add caramel milk: Pour the entire 14-ounce can of Eagle Brand Caramel Flavored Sweetened Condensed Milk slowly over the top of the cake. Use a spatula or spoon to spread it evenly ensuring the caramel mixture fills all the holes. Refrigerate the cake for 1 hour so the caramel milk can soak into the cake properly.
  4. Frost the cake: After chilling, remove the cake from the refrigerator and spread the 16 ounces of chocolate frosting evenly over the top, covering the entire surface.
  5. Decorate: Sprinkle the chopped pecans and mini chocolate chips over the frosted cake. Finish by drizzling caramel syrup generously on top to enhance the rich turtle flavor.
  6. Serve and store: Slice the cake into 20 servings and serve immediately. Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days to maintain freshness.

Notes

  • For best results, use store-bought caramel syrup for drizzling to keep the classic turtle flavor true.
  • You can substitute pecans with walnuts if preferred.
  • Allow the caramel milk enough time to soak into the cake for moist, flavorful bites.
  • Keep the cake refrigerated after assembling to maintain texture and freshness.
  • This cake can be made a day ahead, making it a great option for parties or potlucks.