• 1 cup chopped pecans (or walnuts)
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

2. Prepare the Cake Batter

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, pudding mix, sour cream, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract.
2. Beat with a hand mixer or whisk until smooth and well combined (about 2–3 minutes).

3. Add Mix-Ins

1. Stir in the chopped pecans and chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the batter.

4. Bake

1. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
3. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.

5. Add the Caramel Sauce

1. While the cake is still warm, drizzle the caramel sauce evenly over the top.
2. Use a spatula or knife to gently swirl the caramel into the cake for a marbled effect (optional).

6. Cool and Serve

1. Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing.
2. Optional: Sprinkle extra chocolate chips or pecans on top for added flair.
3. Enjoy every bite of this rich, gooey, and indulgent Crack Cake!
4. Perfect as a standalone dessert or paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.

Tips for Success

• Use Fresh Ingredients: High-quality chocolate chips and fresh nuts make a noticeable difference in flavor.
• Experiment with Mix-Ins: Try adding coconut flakes, toffee bits, or white chocolate chips for variety.
• Make Ahead: Assemble and bake the cake ahead of time, then store it for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
• Store Properly: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to a week.

Why This Recipe Works

This Crack Cake combines the moist, tender crumb of a cake mix with the bold flavors of chocolate, caramel, and pecans into a dessert that’s both satisfying and indulgent. The straightforward preparation ensures consistent results without requiring advanced baking skills, while the customizable options allow you to tailor the recipe to your taste. Whether served as a standalone dessert or customized with your favorite mix-ins, this recipe delivers big on taste and simplicity.

Conclusion: A Dessert Everyone Will Love

Whether you’re craving something sweet and indulgent, looking for a way to simplify dessert-making, or simply want to indulge in a homemade treat, this Crack Cake is sure to delight. Its bold flavors, satisfying textures, and practical preparation make it a standout recipe that’s as versatile as it is delicious. Plus, its adaptability means you can tailor it to suit any occasion.

We’d love to see your creations! Tag us in your photos or share your favorite variations—your take on this cake might just inspire others to try it too! 🍴✨