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### Instructions
#### 1. Prepare the Cake
Start by preheating your oven to **350°F (175°C)**. Grease a 15×10-inch jelly roll pan and line it with parchment paper. Lightly grease the paper as well.
In a large bowl, combine the **flour**, **cocoa powder**, **baking powder**, **baking soda**, and **salt**. Set aside.
In another bowl, whisk together the **eggs**, **sugar**, **vanilla extract**, **water**, and **vegetable oil** until smooth. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until fully combined, but do not over-mix. The batter should be smooth and thick.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly with a spatula. Bake for **12-15 minutes**, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The cake should spring back when touched.
#### 2. Roll the Cake
As soon as the cake is done, remove it from the oven and immediately invert it onto a clean kitchen towel that has been dusted with powdered sugar. Carefully peel off the parchment paper. Starting from one end, gently roll the cake up with the towel, making sure the seam is on the inside. Allow the cake to cool completely while rolled up—this will help it hold its shape when you unroll it later.
#### 3. Make the Caramel Pecan Filling
While the cake is cooling, prepare the caramel filling. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the **caramel sauce** and **heavy cream**. Stir until smooth and heated through, then remove from heat. Stir in the **chopped toasted pecans** and set aside.
#### 4. Prepare the Chocolate Ganache
To make the ganache, heat the **heavy cream** in a small saucepan over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Pour the hot cream over the **chopped semisweet chocolate** in a heatproof bowl. Let it sit for a minute, then stir until smooth and glossy. Set aside to cool slightly.
#### 5. Assemble the Cake Roll
Once the cake has completely cooled, carefully unroll it from the towel. Spread the **caramel pecan filling** evenly over the surface of the cake, leaving a small border around the edges. Roll the cake back up (without the towel this time) and place it seam-side down on a serving platter.
#### 6. Drizzle with Ganache
Pour the cooled **chocolate ganache** over the top of the rolled cake, allowing it to drip down the sides. You can spread the ganache evenly with a spatula for a smooth finish, or let it naturally drip down for a more rustic look. If you like, you can top the cake with additional **toasted pecans** for garnish.
#### 7. Slice and Serve
Allow the cake roll to sit for 30 minutes or so to allow the ganache to firm up. Slice into generous pieces and serve!
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### Tips and Variations
– **Make it ahead**: This cake roll can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors will actually improve as they meld together!
– **Use a different nut**: If you’re not a fan of pecans, you can easily swap them for **walnuts** or **hazelnuts** for a different flavor.
– **Flavor variations**: For a more intense chocolate flavor, consider adding **instant espresso powder** to the cake batter. It’ll enhance the chocolate and create a rich, deep flavor.
– **Decorating**: Add a sprinkle of **sea salt** or drizzle more caramel sauce over the top for a sweet-salty finish.
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### Perfect Pairings
The **Chocolate Caramel Turtle Cake Roll** pairs beautifully with a variety of beverages:
– ☕ **Coffee** or **espresso** – A rich cup of coffee or espresso balances the sweetness of the cake and enhances its chocolate flavor.
– 🍷 **Red wine** – A glass of bold red wine, like **Cabernet Sauvignon** or **Zinfandel**, pairs nicely with the caramel and chocolate.
– 🍨 **Vanilla ice cream** – A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream is the perfect complement to this rich cake roll.
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### Final Thoughts
The **Chocolate Caramel Turtle Cake Roll** is the epitome of indulgent desserts. Its combination of rich chocolate, smooth caramel, and crunchy pecans makes it an unforgettable treat that will wow your friends and family. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to satisfy your sweet tooth, this cake roll is sure to be a hit at your next gathering.
Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a slice (or two) of dessert perfection!
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Let me know if you need any more tips or variations to make this Chocolate Caramel Turtle Cake Roll your own!
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