Sheet Cake with Texas Turtle Flavor

Texas Turtle Sheet Cake
A beloved treat from Texas, the Texas Turtle Sheet Cake combines rich chocolate, crunchy pecans, and sweet caramel in one irresistible dessert. Perfect for family gatherings, parties, or any special occasion, this sheet cake balances textures and flavors beautifully. Follow the recipe below for step-by-step guidance and tips for the decadent topping that makes it unforgettable.
Ingredients
Cake:
- Granulated sugar – 2 cups
- Self-rising flour – 2 cups
- Butter – 1 cup
- Strong black coffee – 1 cup
- Unsweetened cocoa powder – 1/3 cup
- Eggs – 2
- Buttermilk – 1/2 cup
Chocolate Frosting:
- Butter – 1/4 cup
- Buttermilk – 4 tbsp
- Unsweetened cocoa – 3 tbsp
- Powdered sugar – 2 1/2 cups
Turtle Topping:
- Chopped pecans – 1/2 cup
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips – 1 cup
- Caramel sauce – 1 cup
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat & Prep
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour a baking pan, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a large bowl, combine the self-rising flour and sugar; set aside.
Step 2: Make the Chocolate Mixture
- In a saucepan, bring butter, coffee, and cocoa powder to a boil, stirring constantly.
- Pour the hot mixture over the dry ingredients.
- Using a hand mixer on medium speed, blend thoroughly.
- Add eggs and buttermilk, mixing until the batter is smooth and fully combined.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 4: Prepare the Frosting
- In a medium saucepan, combine butter, buttermilk, and cocoa.
- Bring to a boil while stirring constantly.
- Remove from heat, then gradually whisk in the powdered sugar until smooth.
Step 5: Frost & Top the Cake
- Spread or pour the warm frosting over the freshly baked cake.
- While the frosting is still warm, sprinkle with chopped pecans and chocolate chips, then drizzle with caramel sauce.
✨ Tip: Serve slightly warm for the richest chocolate flavor and the perfect gooey texture.



