Knock You Nakeds(A.K.A. Turtle Cake)

Cook: 8 min Cuisine: American

A rich, decadent chocolate cake layered with pecans and caramel, perfect for dessert lovers and special occasions seeking a sweet, nutty treat with a caramel twist.

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Ingredients

  • 18 1/2 oz. pkg. German chocolate cake mix
  • 1 cup pecans, chopped
  • 1/3 cup evaporated milk
  • 3/4 cup butter or margarine, melted
  • 60 vanilla caramels (14 oz.), unwrapped
  • 60 vanilla caramels (14 oz.), unwrapped

Instructions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the dry cake mix, chopped pecans, 1/3 cup evaporated milk, and melted butter.
  2. Mix until the batter is stiff.
  3. Press half of the batter into the bottom of a greased 9 x 13-inch baking dish.
  4. Bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 8 minutes.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider using dark chocolate cake mix instead of German chocolate. If you prefer a nut-free version, you can omit the pecans entirely and add an extra layer of chocolate chips instead. Ensure to unwrap all the caramels beforehand to streamline the melting process, making it easier to combine them into the cake batter.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Knock You Nakeds warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for a delightful contrast. A drizzle of chocolate sauce can enhance the dessert further. This cake also pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea, making it a perfect choice for afternoon gatherings or dessert after a hearty meal.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover Knock You Nakeds in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, place individual servings in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds until warm, being careful not to overheat and dry them out.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Knock You Nakeds(A.K.A. Turtle Cake) contains roughly 5637 calories, with 13g protein, 132g carbohydrates, and 565g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (91% of the Daily Value), iron (53% of the Daily Value), and calcium (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 777mg per serving (34% of the Daily Value).

5637 kcal 100% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 13.3g 27% DV
Total Fat 565.2g 100% DV
Carbs 131.7g 48% DV
Fiber 25.5g 91% DV
Sugar 66.9g 100% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 776.9mg 34% DV
Potassium 613.4mg 13% DV
Cholesterol 600mg 100% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 87.7mcg 10% DV
Vitamin C 7.6mg 8% DV
Vitamin D 1mcg 5% DV
Calcium 421.9mg 32% DV
Iron 9.5mg 53% DV
Diet fit High-fiber
Contains Milk Tree nuts

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cake up to a day in advance. Just store it covered at room temperature. When ready to serve, warm individual pieces in the microwave for a few seconds to bring back the gooey texture.

What if I don't have evaporated milk?

If you don't have evaporated milk, you can substitute it with regular milk. For a creamier texture, consider using half-and-half or a mixture of milk with a touch of cream. Just be mindful to adjust the quantities slightly as needed.

Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, you can freeze the Knock You Nakeds. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. It will keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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