1 (18.5 oz.) pkg. German chocolate cake mix
1/2 c. milk
1/2 c. butter
16 oz. caramels
12 oz. chocolate chips
1/2 c. chopped pecans
Topping (recipe follows)

Prepare cake mix according to package directions. Pour 1/2 of the batter into a lightly greased 13 x 9 inch pan. Bake for 15 minutes at 350 degrees. While cake is baking, heat milk, butter, and caramels over low heat, stirring constantly, until caramels are melted. Spread over cake. Sprinkle chocolate chips and nuts on top of caramel layer. Cover with remaining batter. Bake for 20 minutes more. Cool.

TOPPING:

1 (1.4 oz.) pkg. whipped topping mix
1 (3 3/4 oz.) box chocolate instant pudding
1 1/2 c. milk
Pecans

Combine mix, pudding, and milk. Blend on low speed until mixed. Beat 4 to 6 minutes on high speed. Spread on cooled cake. Garnish with chopped or whole pecans.