This Chocolate Caramel Toffee Crunch Cake is a yummy treat that layers rich chocolate cake, creamy caramel, and crunchy toffee bits. It’s a dessert that truly satisfies any sweet tooth!
I can’t resist the little crunch from the toffee when I take a bite! Pair it with a scoop of ice cream for an extra delightful moment—because why not? 🤤
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chocolate Cake Mix: This is the base of your cake. If you want to try a homemade version, you can substitute with equal parts of flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, and salt. A chocolate sponge cake recipe works well too!
Cream Cheese: This gives the frosting a tangy smoothness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using Greek yogurt or mascarpone cheese instead, which can still give a rich texture.
Caramel Sauce: Store-bought caramel is convenient, but you can make your own easily by melting sugar until golden and adding cream. Just be careful not to burn it! You can also use butterscotch sauce as a twist.
Toffee Bits: If you can’t find toffee bits, crushed hard toffee candies (like Heath bars) will do the trick. You could even try chopped nuts for a different crunch.
How Do I Properly Bake and Cool the Cake?
Getting the baking right is key to a successful cake. Here are some steps to ensure it bakes evenly and cools properly:
- Always preheat your oven before putting the cake in to ensure it rises well.
- Greasing the pan properly will help the cake release easily. Use both grease and flour, or non-stick spray.
- For doneness, look for a clean toothpick when inserted in the center. If it comes out sticky, give it a few more minutes.
Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan for about 15-20 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack. Allow it to cool completely before adding the caramel and toppings to prevent them from melting into the cake.
How to Make Chocolate Caramel Toffee Crunch Cake!
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cake:
- 1 box chocolate cake mix
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
For the Filling:
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1 cup caramel sauce (plus extra for drizzling)
- 1 cup toffee bits
For the Frosting:
- 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping (Cool Whip)
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
For the Topping:
- 1 cup toffee bits
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce for drizzling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful cake will take about 20 minutes to prepare and about 35 minutes to bake. You’ll want to give it at least 2 hours in the fridge to chill and set, so plan for a total time of about 3 hours before you can serve it. Trust us, it’s worth the wait!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Bake the Cake:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch cake pan so the cake can be easily removed later. In a large bowl, mix the chocolate cake mix with eggs, water, and vegetable oil according to the package instructions. Stir everything together until it’s nice and smooth. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and pop it in the oven for about 30-35 minutes. To check if it’s done, insert a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean, it’s ready! Let the cake cool completely in the pan.
2. Add the Filling:
Once the cake is cool, grab a fork and poke holes all over the top of the cake. This is where all that delicious caramel will soak in. Pour 1 cup of caramel sauce over the top and let it soak in nicely. After that, sprinkle the chocolate chips and toffee bits evenly over the caramel-covered cake. Yum!
3. Prepare the Frosting:
In a separate bowl, mix the softened cream cheese with the powdered sugar until it’s nice and creamy. Then, gently fold in the Cool Whip until everything is well combined. This will make your frosting light and fluffy! Spread this cream cheese mixture over the top of the cake, smoothing it out evenly.
4. Finish and Chill:
In a small bowl, mix the remaining toffee bits and chocolate chips. Sprinkle this tasty mixture over your cream cheese frosting for an extra crunch. Then, drizzle additional caramel sauce over the top for that sweet finish. Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours before serving. This will help all the flavors blend and let the cake set perfectly!
5. Serve and Enjoy!
When you’re ready, slice the cake into squares and serve it chilled. Every bite is a delightful mix of flavors and textures. Enjoy your amazing Chocolate Caramel Toffee Crunch Cake with friends and family!
Can I Use a Different Cake Mix Flavor?
Absolutely! While the chocolate cake mix is delicious, you can substitute it with vanilla, red velvet, or even a caramel-flavored cake mix for a fun twist. Just be sure that the mixing instructions align with the new cake mix for proper baking.
How Can I Make This Cake Gluten-Free?
If you need a gluten-free cake, simply swap the regular chocolate cake mix for a gluten-free chocolate cake mix. The other ingredients in the recipe are typically gluten-free, but always check the labels to ensure they meet your dietary needs!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Cake?
To keep your cake fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also cover it with plastic wrap if you don’t have a container available. Just make sure it’s well wrapped to avoid drying out.
Can I Freeze This Cake?
Yes, you can freeze the cake! Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by foil to prevent freezer burn. It’s best to freeze it without the frosting for optimal texture. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving!
