1. Preparing the Cake:
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease and flour your baking pan, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the self-rising flour and granulated sugar. Set aside.
Cook the Chocolate Mixture: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt 1 cup butter with 1 cup strong black coffee and 1/3 cup cocoa powder. Bring to a boil while stirring constantly.
Combine: Pour the boiling chocolate mixture over the dry ingredients. Using a hand-held mixer, blend until thoroughly combined. Add in the eggs and 1/2 cup buttermilk, continuing to mix for another minute until smooth.
Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
2. Making the Frosting:
Cook: While the cake bakes, prepare the frosting. In a medium saucepan, combine 1/4 cup butter, 4 tablespoons buttermilk, and 3 tablespoons cocoa powder. Bring to a boil, stirring consistently.
Finish the Frosting: Remove from heat. Gradually whisk in the powdered sugar until smooth.
Frost the Cake: Once the cake is baked and while still warm, spread or pour the frosting over the top evenly.
3. Adding the Turtle Topping:
Sprinkle and Drizzle: Sprinkle the warm frosting with chopped pecans and chocolate chips. Then, drizzle generously with caramel sauce.
4. Serving:
Cool: Allow the cake to cool slightly before serving, letting the toppings set a bit for easier slicing.
Enjoy: Serve warm or at room temperature, cutting into squares to reveal the layered decadence of this Texas Turtle Sheet Cake.
This cake is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or as a special treat to enjoy at home. Its combination of textures and flavors—crunchy, gooey, sweet, and chocolatey—makes it a memorable dessert that’s sure to earn requests for repeat performances. Enjoy the process and the delicious outcome!
