Description

Moist, rich, and completely indulgent, Paul Newman Cake is a legendary dessert known for its incredible flavor and no-fuss preparation. This classic Southern treat starts with a boxed cake mix, is soaked with caramel and sweetened milk, layered with whipped topping, and crowned with crumbled candy bars. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for potlucks, birthdays, or anytime you need a quick, decadent dessert.

Want recipes like this delivered straight to your inbox? Subscribe now to get the latest culinary creations you’ll love.

Ingredients

Scale

1 box chocolate cake mix (plus eggs, oil, and water per package instructions)
1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
1 jar (12 oz) caramel sauce or butterscotch topping
1 container (8 oz) whipped topping, thawed (like Cool Whip)
3–4 Heath, Skor, or chocolate-covered toffee bars, crushed
Optional: chocolate syrup or additional caramel drizzle for serving

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Step 1: Bake the Cake
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Prepare the chocolate cake mix according to package directions.
Pour batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and bake as directed (usually 28–32 minutes).
Let cool for 5–10 minutes after baking.

Step 2: Poke and Soak
While the cake is still warm, use the handle of a wooden spoon or a skewer to poke holes all over the top.
Slowly pour the sweetened condensed milk over the cake, letting it soak into the holes.
Follow immediately with the caramel sauce, spreading it evenly over the surface.

Step 3: Cool and Chill
Allow the cake to cool completely at room temperature.
Then refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight) to let everything set and soak in.

Step 4: Add Whipped Topping and Candy
Once the cake is fully chilled, spread the thawed whipped topping evenly over the top.
Sprinkle crushed candy bars all over the whipped topping layer.
Add a drizzle of chocolate syrup or more caramel if desired.

Step 5: Slice and Serve
Cut into squares and serve chilled.
Each slice is rich, creamy, and packed with chocolatey-caramel flavor.

Notes

Use a Dense Chocolate Cake – Devil’s food or fudge cake mixes work beautifully.
Poke Deep Holes – This ensures the filling reaches deep into the cake.
Chill Overnight – This gives the flavors time to meld and makes slicing easier.
Don’t Skip the Candy – Crushed Heath or toffee bars add texture and crunch.
Make It Your Own – Swap the candy with chopped Snickers, Reese’s, or your favorite bar.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Cuisine: American – Southern