Learn how to make a gooey chocolate caramel turtle cake roll with rich layers of fudge, creamy caramel, and crunchy pecans. This decadent dessert recipe is easier than it looks and perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself.
Craving something ultra-decadent, rich, and irresistibly gooey?
You’re in for a treat. This Gooey Chocolate Caramel Turtle Cake Roll is everything a chocolate lover dreams about—moist chocolate cake, silky caramel filling, toasted pecans, and a drizzle of ganache that makes every bite melt in your mouth.
Whether you’re baking for the holidays, a birthday, or just because—it’s a showstopper dessert that looks bakery-worthy but is totally doable at home.
Why You’ll Love This Turtle Cake Roll
• Gooey & indulgent – Every bite is packed with rich chocolate and buttery caramel.
• Perfect texture – Soft cake, smooth filling, and crunchy pecans.
• Eye-catching presentation – A stunning dessert that rolls up beautifully.
• Make-ahead friendly – Preps well for parties and gatherings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the chocolate sponge cake:
• 4 large eggs
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ⅓ cup cocoa powder
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• ½ tsp baking powder
• Pinch of salt
For the caramel pecan filling:
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• ½ cup dulce de leche or thick caramel sauce
• ½ cup chopped toasted pecans
For the chocolate ganache:
• ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• ¼ cup heavy cream
Toppings (optional but highly recommended):
• Extra chopped pecans
• Caramel drizzle
• Chocolate shavings
Step-by-Step: How To Make Gooey Chocolate Caramel Turtle Cake Roll
1. Preheat and Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 10×15 inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it. This will help the cake release easily.
2. Make the Chocolate Sponge Cake
In a large bowl, beat the eggs for 4–5 minutes until thick and pale. Gradually add sugar and vanilla. In a separate bowl, sift together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture. Don’t overmix!
Spread the batter evenly in your pan. Bake for 10–12 minutes or until the cake springs back when touched.
3. Roll It While Warm
Immediately invert the warm cake onto a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar. Peel off the parchment, and carefully roll the cake up in the towel from the short end. Let it cool completely.
4. Whip the Filling
Whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Fold in the caramel and toasted pecans gently. Keep chilled until ready to use.
5. Assemble the Roll
Unroll the cooled cake carefully. Spread the caramel pecan filling evenly over the surface. Roll it back up tightly—but gently! Wrap it in plastic wrap and chill for at least 1 hour.
6. Ganache Time
Heat the heavy cream and pour it over the chocolate chips. Let it sit for a minute, then stir until smooth and glossy. Drizzle over your cake roll and top with chopped pecans and caramel if desired.
Tips for Success
• Use parchment + powdered sugar towel: This double trick prevents sticking and cracking.
• Don’t overbake: It’s better to be slightly underdone than dry.
• Cool before filling: Always let the cake cool fully before spreading whipped filling.
Variations To Try
• Swap pecans for walnuts or hazelnuts for a twist.
• Add a sprinkle of sea salt to the caramel for a sweet-salty contrast.
• Use espresso powder in the cake batter to intensify the chocolate flavor.
Perfect For Every Occasion
This turtle cake roll makes the perfect holiday dessert, birthday showpiece, or dinner party highlight. And it’s so Instagram-worthy, it’s bound to catch attention on your feed—and on Pinterest!
Final Thoughts
This gooey chocolate caramel turtle cake roll isn’t just dessert—it’s an experience. From the first slice to the last bite, it’s rich, indulgent, and impossible to resist. Don’t be surprised if your guests ask for seconds—and the recipe.