Everything’s bigger in Texas, and that includes the flavors in this decadent Texas Turtle Sheet Cake. Combining rich chocolate, buttery caramel, and crunchy pecans, this cake offers a grand slice of Southern hospitality. Perfect for gatherings or a family dessert, this cake is designed to impress with its layers of taste and texture, making every bite a luscious treat.
A Cake That Celebrates Comfort
From the robust flavor of black coffee enhancing the chocolate to the sweet crunch of pecans, this cake embodies the essence of comfort food. It’s a celebration of simple, yet rich ingredients coming together to create something incredibly special and satisfying. With each element adding its unique touch, this Texas Turtle Sheet Cake transforms a classic concept into an unforgettable dessert.
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Serving: 12-15 servings
Equipment: Baking pan, saucepans, mixing bowls, hand-held mixer
Texas Turtle Sheet Cake
Ingredients:
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 cups self-rising flour
- 1 cup butter
- 1 cup strong black coffee
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
For the Chocolate Frosting:
- 1/4 cup butter
- 4 tablespoons buttermilk
- 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa
- 2 1/2 cups powdered sugar
For the Turtle Topping:
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup caramel sauce
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease and flour your baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the self-rising flour and granulated sugar. Set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt 1 cup of butter with the black coffee and 1/3 cup cocoa powder, bringing the mixture to a boil while stirring constantly.
- Pour the hot mixture over the dry ingredients in the bowl. Using a hand-held mixer, blend until the wet and dry components are thoroughly combined.
- Beat in the eggs and 1/2 cup of buttermilk, continuing to mix for another minute until the batter is smooth.
- Transfer the batter to the prepared baking pan. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- For the frosting, combine 1/4 cup butter, 4 tablespoons buttermilk, and 3 tablespoons cocoa in another saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring consistently.
- Remove from heat. Gradually whisk in the powdered sugar, adding a 1/2 cup at a time, until smooth.
- Pour and spread the warm frosting over the baked cake.
- Sprinkle the chopped pecans and chocolate chips over the frosting. Drizzle generously with caramel sauce while the cake is still warm.
The Final Touch: A Drizzle and a Smile
This cake isn’t just served; it’s presented with pride, each layer telling a story of flavor and texture. The warm frosting melds with the toppings to create a gooey, delightful topping that complements the moist cake beneath. Ideal for any occasion or no occasion at all, the Texas Turtle Sheet Cake is a testament to the joy of baking and the pleasure of sharing. Enjoy a slice with a cup of coffee or as the centerpiece of your next celebration.