3. Preparing the Chocolate Ganache:
- Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat. Watch carefully, as soon as it begins to simmer, remove from heat and pour over the chocolate chips in a bowl.
- Let it sit for 2-3 minutes to melt the chocolate, then stir until smooth and creamy. Allow the ganache to cool until it thickens slightly, but is still pourable.
4. Assembling the Cake:
- Place one cake layer on your serving plate and poke holes all over it with a fork. Pour half of the caramel sauce over the cake, allowing it to soak in. Then, spread a thin layer of chocolate ganache over the caramel.
- Sprinkle half of the chopped pecans over the ganache.
- Place the second cake layer on top and repeat the process with the remaining caramel, ganache, and chopped pecans.
- Decorate the top with whole pecans and, if desired, a sprinkle of sea salt flakes.
5. Serving:
Allow the cake to set for about an hour in the refrigerator before slicing. This will make it easier to cut and serve. The Turtle Caramel Cake is best enjoyed at room temperature, where the layers of caramel and chocolate ganache meld together with the moist chocolate cake and crunchy pecans to create a truly decadent dessert experience.
This Turtle Caramel Cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures that come together to create something truly special. Whether for a special occasion or a weekend treat, it promises to delight and satisfy any sweet tooth. Enjoy the process of making it, and even more so, enjoy every decadent bite.