Introduction
Indulge in a delightful dessert that tantalizes the taste buds with its rich chocolate flavor and creamy textures. This devil’s food cake topped with a luscious caramel and chocolate drizzle, along with crunchy pecans and sweet chocolate chips, creates an irresistible treat perfect for any occasion.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 (16-ounce) box devil’s food cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box to prepare the cake)
1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
1 (16-ounce) jar caramel sauce, divided
1 (8-ounce) tub Cool Whip
½ cup chopped pecans
½ cup caramel or toffee bits
⅓ cup mini chocolate chips
¼ cup chocolate sauce
Prep Time
Preparation for this scrumptious cake takes approximately 30 minutes.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour (plus chilling time)
Yield: Serves approximately 12 people
Instructions
1. Prepare and bake the devil’s food cake mix according to the package instructions for a 9×13-inch pan.
2. Once baked, allow the cake to cool completely.
3. Using a straw or the back of a wooden spoon, poke holes evenly across the surface of the cake.
4. Pour the sweetened condensed milk and ¾ of the caramel sauce over the cake, ensuring the mixture seeps into the holes.
5. Spread the Cool Whip evenly over the top of the cake.
6. Refrigerate the cake for at least one hour, or until ready to serve.
7. Before serving, drizzle the remaining caramel sauce and the chocolate sauce over the top of the cake.
8. Sprinkle the chopped pecans, caramel or toffee bits, and mini chocolate chips evenly over the cake.
9. Slice into squares and serve.
Notes
For enhanced flavor, chill the cake for at least an hour before adding the final toppings. If time allows, chilling overnight is even better. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Cake
Prepare and bake the devil’s food cake mix according to the package instructions for a 9×13-inch pan.
Cool the Cake
Once baked, allow the cake to cool completely.
Poke Holes
Using a straw or the back of a wooden spoon, poke holes evenly across the surface of the cake.
Add Sweetened Condensed Milk and Caramel Sauce
Pour the sweetened condensed milk and ¾ of the caramel sauce over the cake, ensuring the mixture seeps into the holes.
Spread Cool Whip
Spread the Cool Whip evenly over the top of the cake.
Chill the Cake
Refrigerate the cake for at least one hour, or until ready to serve.
Drizzle Sauces
Before serving, drizzle the remaining caramel sauce and the chocolate sauce over the top of the cake.
Top with Garnishes
Sprinkle the chopped pecans, caramel or toffee bits, and mini chocolate chips evenly over the cake.
Serve
Slice into squares and serve.
Notes
Chilling Recommendation
For enhanced flavor, chill the cake for at least an hour before adding the final toppings. If time allows, chilling overnight is even better.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Cook techniques
Preparing the Cake
Ensure to follow the packaging instructions of the devil’s food cake mix carefully for the best results.
Cooling the Cake
Allow the cake to cool completely before adding any toppings or fillings to prevent melting.
Poking Holes
Use a straw or the back of a wooden spoon to poke holes in the cake. This helps the liquids seep in for added flavor and moisture.
Application of Sweetened Condensed Milk and Caramel Sauce
Pour the sweetened condensed milk and ¾ of the caramel sauce over the cake, making sure to cover it evenly and let it seep into the holes for enhanced flavor.
Spreading Cool Whip
Evenly spread the Cool Whip over the top of the cake using a spatula to ensure a smooth finish.
Refrigeration
Chill the cake in the refrigerator for at least one hour to allow the flavors to meld and the texture to set.
Final Toppings
Add the remaining caramel sauce and chocolate sauce as a drizzle on top just before serving for an appealing presentation.
Garnishing the Cake
Sprinkle the chopped pecans, caramel or toffee bits, and mini chocolate chips evenly over the top to add texture and flavor contrast.
Slicing the Cake
Slice into squares for serving, ensuring each piece has a good amount of the toppings and filling.
FAQ
Can I use a different flavor of cake mix?
Yes, you can swap the devil’s food cake mix for another flavor if desired, but the overall taste and theme will change.
How long can I leave the cake in the refrigerator?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Can I make the cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! To enhance the flavors, you can chill the cake overnight before adding the final toppings.
What can I substitute for Cool Whip?
You can use freshly whipped cream as a substitute for Cool Whip if you prefer a homemade touch.
Is it necessary to poke holes in the cake?
Poking holes allows the condensed milk and caramel to seep into the cake, enhancing its flavor and moisture, so it is recommended.
Can I add more toppings to the cake?
Feel free to customize your toppings by adding ingredients such as chocolate shavings, sprinkles, or different nuts to suit your taste.
Conclusion
This decadent chocolate lava cake topped with caramel and nuts is a delightful treat that is sure to impress at any gathering. The combination of flavors and textures—from the moist cake to the creamy Cool Whip and crunchy toppings—creates a delightful dessert experience. Perfect for parties, celebrations, or just a sweet indulgence, this cake is easy to prepare and will leave everyone wanting more.
Chocolate Mint Variation
Add peppermint extract to the cake mix and layer crushed mint chocolate candies on top for a refreshing twist.
Nutty Banana Delight
Incorporate sliced bananas between the cake and Cool Whip layers, and replace pecans with walnuts for added flavor.
Peanut Butter Bliss
Drizzle warm peanut butter over the Cool Whip layer and sprinkle with crushed peanuts for an irresistible combination.
Cookie Crumble Topping
Instead of pecans, top the cake with crushed chocolate sandwich cookies for an extra chocolatey crunch.
Berry Bliss Cake
Layer fresh berries like strawberries or raspberries in between the cake and Cool Whip for a fruity touch.
Cheesecake Layer
Add a layer of cheesecake filling between the cake and Cool Whip for a creamier, richer dessert.
Halloween Spooktacular
Incorporate orange food coloring into the Cool Whip for a festive look, and add Halloween-themed sprinkles on top.
Caramel Apple Delight
Mix diced apples into the Cool Whip and add a sprinkle of cinnamon before topping with caramel for a fall-inspired treat.
