Pour 2 cups batter in a 9x13 inch greased baking pan.
Bake 15 minutes.
Melt caramels, butter and sweetened condensed milk over medium-heat, stirring frequently until smooth.
Spread evenly over baked layer.
Spread remaining cake mix batter over caramel mixture.
Return to oven and bake for 30-35 minutes or until cake springs back when lightly touched.
Serve with vanilla ice cream.
Notes
Even Batter Distribution: When pouring the batter into the baking pan, ensure it covers the bottom evenly. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to spread the batter into a uniform layer. This helps ensure that the cake bakes evenly and results in a consistent texture throughout.
Caramel Preparation: When melting the caramels, butter, and sweetened condensed milk, it's important to stir frequently to prevent the mixture from burning or sticking to the bottom of the pan. Use a medium-low heat setting to melt the ingredients slowly and evenly. Once smooth, spread the caramel mixture evenly over the baked cake layer for a deliciously gooey caramel filling.
Testing for Doneness: To determine if the cake is fully baked, perform the toothpick test. Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the cake is ready. If the toothpick comes out with wet batter, continue baking for a few more minutes before testing again. Be cautious not to overbake, as this can result in a dry cake texture. Serve the warm cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful combination of flavors and textures.