Decadent Turtle Fudge Cake Made in a Skillet

If you’re craving a rich and gooey dessert, this skillet cake is the perfect treat to satisfy your sweet tooth. Loaded with chocolate, caramel, and nuts, it’s incredibly easy to make and impossible to resist.

Tips For Perfect Results

Use a well-seasoned or non-stick skillet to prevent the cake from sticking.
Allow the cake to cool slightly before slicing to help it set and hold its shape.
For extra gooeyness, drizzle additional caramel sauce over the top just before serving.

Ingredients 0/9

1 tablespoon solid vegetable shortening 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour 1 (18.25 ounce) box devil's food chocolate cake mix (such as Betty Crocker® Super Moist®) 1 ⅓ cups water 3 eggs ½ cup vegetable oil 1 (12 ounce) jar caramel ice cream topping, divided 4 (1 ounce) squares semisweet baking chocolate, coarsely chopped ½ cup pecan halves, coarsely chopped

Why This Recipe Stands Out

This dessert combines rich chocolate with gooey caramel and crunchy pecans, creating an indulgent treat that's both comforting and impressive. Made in a skillet, it’s quick to prepare and offers a warm, homemade feel perfect for sharing.

Step 1

Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 12-inch oven-safe skillet—using shortening works great—and be sure to tap out any extra flour so it’s not clumpy. In a big bowl, mix together the cake mix, water, eggs, and oil. Use an electric mixer on low speed just until everything is combined, then crank it up to medium and keep beating for about two minutes, stopping to scrape down the sides now and then. Pour the batter right into your prepared skillet.

Step 2

Pop the skillet into the oven and bake it uncovered for about 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick poked in the center comes out clean. Once out of the oven, let the cake cool on a wire rack for about five minutes. Then, gently run a knife around the edges to loosen it and carefully flip it onto a large plate. Let it cool for another half hour or so.

Step 3

While the cake is cooling, mix half of your caramel topping with the baking chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat it in the microwave on high for 30 to 60 seconds until the chocolate melts, then stir it until smooth and combined. Spread this chocolate-caramel mixture evenly over the cake.

Step 4

Finally, sprinkle the top with pecans and drizzle the rest of the caramel over everything. Let it sit until the topping firms up a bit, then slice into wedges and enjoy!

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By David Brown

David shares approachable recipes, helpful cooking tips, and simple meal ideas.

How To Serve This Dish

Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. A sprinkle of chopped pecans on top adds a nice crunch and enhances the turtle flavor. This cake pairs well with a cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk.

Leftover Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, keep it covered in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat gently in the microwave to enjoy that melty, gooey texture again.