Paul Newman Cake

Moist, sweet, and outrageously delicious, this Paul Newman Cake is a retro dessert that’s stood the test of time. Named after the actor known for his salad dressings and sauces, this cake combines a rich chocolate base with caramel sauce, whipped topping, and crushed toffee bars for the ultimate indulgence. It’s a semi-homemade crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for potlucks, birthdays, or anytime you need an easy dessert that disappears fast.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Super Moist & Rich – Thanks to caramel sauce and sweetened condensed milk
Easy to Make – Uses cake mix and just a few simple ingredients
Always a Crowd Favorite – Perfect balance of chocolate, caramel, and crunch
Make-Ahead Friendly – Even better the next day
Great for Parties – Travels well and serves a crowd

Ingredients You’ll Need
1 box chocolate cake mix (plus eggs, oil, and water per package)
1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
1 jar (12 oz) caramel sauce (or butterscotch topping)
1 container (8 oz) whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
3–4 toffee bars (like Heath or Skor), crushed
Optional: ½ tsp vanilla extract (for extra flavor)

Tools You’ll Need
9×13-inch baking dish
Mixing bowl
Wooden spoon or skewer
Spatula
Plastic wrap or lid for storage

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Bake the Cake
Prepare and bake the chocolate cake in a 9×13-inch dish according to the package directions. Let it cool for 10 minutes.

Step 2: Poke & Soak
Use the handle of a wooden spoon or a skewer to poke holes all over the warm cake, about 1 inch apart.
Pour the sweetened condensed milk evenly over the top, letting it soak into the holes.
Next, drizzle the caramel sauce over the cake, spreading it evenly with a spatula.

Step 3: Cool & Chill
Let the cake cool completely to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight) so it soaks and sets.

Step 4: Add Whipped Topping
Spread the whipped topping evenly over the chilled cake. For extra flavor, you can mix in ½ tsp of vanilla extract to the whipped topping before spreading.

Step 5: Add the Crunch
Sprinkle the crushed toffee bars over the top just before serving for the perfect sweet crunch.

Tips for the Best Paul Newman Cake
Poke Deep Holes – So the filling soaks into every bite
Use Real Whipped Cream – If preferred, but stabilize with powdered sugar
Chill Well – This cake gets better the longer it sits
Customize It – Add chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or drizzle extra caramel on top
Crush Toffee Fresh – Use a rolling pin or food processor just before serving

Serving Suggestions
With Coffee – The perfect finish to a casual dinner
At Potlucks – Easy to make, transport, and serve
Birthday Parties – A fun alternative to frosted cakes
Holiday Dessert Tables – A sweet surprise everyone will love
As an Anytime Treat – Just because it’s that good

How to Store & Make Ahead
Refrigerate: Keep covered in the fridge for up to 4–5 days
Freezing: Freeze without whipped topping and candy, wrapped tightly, for up to 2 months. Thaw and add toppings fresh
Make-Ahead: Best made the night before so flavors meld together

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different cake mix?
   Yes—devil’s food or fudge cake mixes work great
2. What’s a good substitute for toffee bars?
   Try chopped chocolate-covered pretzels, peanut brittle, or chocolate chips
3. Can I use homemade caramel?
   Absolutely! Just ensure it’s pourable and not too thick
4. Is it very sweet?
   It is rich and sweet—perfect for dessert lovers. Use less caramel or whipped topping for a lighter taste
5. Can I serve it warm?
   It’s best chilled, but you can enjoy it slightly warm right after assembly—just skip the whipped topping

Final Thoughts
This Paul Newman Cake is the definition of simple decadence. With its moist chocolate base, layers of gooey caramel and milk, and fluffy whipped topping with crunchy toffee, it’s a retro dessert that never goes out of style. Easy to make and even easier to love, it’s guaranteed to be the star of your next gathering.

Try it once—and it just might become your new go-to party cake!

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Baking Time: 30 minutes
Chilling Time: 2 hours or overnight
Cuisine: American / Retro Dessert

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – 1 of 12):
Calories: 410 | Protein: 5g | Carbohydrates: 55g | Fat: 18g | Sugar: 42g | Sodium: 350mg

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