If you’ve been hunting for a dessert that’s guaranteed to impress without demanding hours in the kitchen, then you’re in for a treat with this Earthquake Cake Recipe. Imagine a rich chocolate cake base topped with a gooey layer of cream cheese, shredded coconut, and crunchy pecans, all coming together to create a delightful texture that’s both fudgy and nutty. The best part? The cream cheese layer cracks and bubbles during baking, giving the cake that signature “earthquake” appearance, making it as fun to look at as it is to eat. It’s a perfect crowd-pleaser for any occasion and surprisingly simple to pull off!
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward and pantry-friendly, yet each one brings an important element to this recipe’s irresistible flavor and texture. From the rich chocolate cake mix to the creamy filling and crunchy nuts, every bite is a wonderful balance of tastes you won’t want to miss.
- Chocolate cake mix (15.25 oz, 1 box): The foundation of the cake, providing a moist and chocolaty base with minimal effort.
- Unsalted butter, 1/2 cup melted: Adds richness and moisture to the cake layers.
- Shredded coconut, 1 cup: Offers sweet, chewy texture that pairs beautifully with chocolate.
- Chopped pecans (or walnuts), 1 cup: Bring a satisfying crunch and a touch of earthiness.
- Cream cheese, 8 oz softened: Creates the silky, luscious layer that gives the cake its signature gooey appeal.
- Unsalted butter, 1/4 cup softened: Mixes with cream cheese for that smooth, creamy filling.
- Powdered sugar, 1 1/2 cups: Sweetens and balances the tanginess of the cream cheese layer.
- Vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon: Enhances the overall flavor with a warm, aromatic note.
- Salt, 1/4 teaspoon: Just a pinch to elevate all the flavors.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips, 1/2 cup (optional): Adds bursts of melty chocolate on top if you want to turn up the chocolate factor.
How to Make Earthquake Cake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats up, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish generously with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking. This simple step ensures your cake comes out perfectly intact after baking.
Step 2: Mix and Pour the Cake Batter
Follow the package instructions to prepare the chocolate cake mix—this keeps things wonderfully simple without sacrificing flavor. Pour the smooth batter evenly into your greased baking dish, setting the stage for the magic to come.
Step 3: Add Coconut and Nuts
Next, sprinkle shredded coconut and chopped pecans evenly over the top of the batter. Resist the urge to mix these in; letting them rest on top will create that fabulous textured layer that’s both visually appealing and delicious.
Step 4: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture
In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, softened 1/4 cup unsalted butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth and creamy. This luscious filling adds a dreamy richness that contrasts perfectly with the chocolate.
Step 5: Layer the Cream Cheese on the Cake
Using a spoon, drop dollops of your cream cheese mixture across the top of the batter. Spread it gently—don’t worry if the cake isn’t covered completely; the unevenness is what creates the signature “earthquake” look when baked.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake the cake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the cake is set and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The cream cheese layer will crack and ripple, mimicking an earthquake’s seismic activity, which is exactly what makes this cake so unique.
Step 7: Optional Chocolate Chip Topping
If you want an extra dose of chocolate, sprinkle semi-sweet chocolate chips over the cake during the last 5 minutes of baking. This melts into little pockets of joy that add richness and a lovely contrast to the coconut and nuts.
Step 8: Cool and Enjoy
Once baked, let your Earthquake Cake cool slightly before cutting into squares. This step helps everything set just right for that gooey, fudgy bite you’re aiming for. Then get ready to enjoy slices of pure happiness!
How to Serve Earthquake Cake Recipe
Garnishes
Though the cake is stunning on its own, you can elevate it by adding a few simple garnishes. A dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of chocolate sauce can make for an elegant touch, while a dollop of whipped cream provides a light, airy balance to the dense cake.
Side Dishes
Earthquake Cake pairs wonderfully with fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The bright fruit cuts through the richness wonderfully, while ice cream melts into all the nooks and crannies of that creamy filling to create an indulgent experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For festive occasions, try layering pieces of the Earthquake Cake on a dessert platter with alternating layers of fresh fruit or toasted nuts. You can also serve it mini muffin-style for easy, shareable bites at parties. Presentation is half the fun when your cake already brings this much personality!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Earthquake Cake keeps well covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Make sure to store it in an airtight container to preserve moisture and prevent it from absorbing other fridge odors. Its flavors actually deepen overnight, making it a delicious next-day treat.
Freezing
You can freeze Earthquake Cake by wrapping individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then placing them in a freezer-safe container or bag. Frozen pieces keep for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture.
Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy again, warm slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds to bring back that fresh-from-the-oven warmth. If you want a crisp top, you can also pop them in the oven at 325°F for 10 minutes.
FAQs
Can I use a homemade chocolate cake instead of a box mix?
Absolutely! A homemade chocolate cake batter will work beautifully in place of the box mix and can add a personal touch to the Earthquake Cake Recipe.
What nut alternatives work well if I’m allergic to pecans and walnuts?
Sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds can provide crunch and texture without the nut allergens. Feel free to experiment with your favorite seeds or leave nuts out entirely.
Does the Earthquake Cake Recipe freeze well baked or unbaked?
It’s best to freeze the cake after baking and cooling to ensure the texture stays intact. Freezing before baking can affect how the cake rises and the cream cheese layer sets.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, by using dairy-free cream cheese, butter alternatives, and a dairy-free chocolate cake mix, you can create a delicious Earthquake Cake that fits your dietary needs.
Why does the cream cheese layer crack during baking?
The cracking happens because the cream cheese layer sets and contracts in the oven while the cake beneath rises, creating the unique “earthquake” effect that the recipe is famous for.
Final Thoughts
This Earthquake Cake Recipe is a joyous blend of textures and flavors that will quickly become a staple in your dessert rotation. It’s approachable, comforting, and makes sharing a breeze. I can’t wait for you to try it and fall in love with how effortless baking can produce such a show-stopping treat!
Print
Earthquake Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
- Total Time: 55-60 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Earthquake Cake is a rich and gooey chocolate dessert featuring a fudgy cake base layered with coconut and chopped pecans, topped with a creamy sweetened cream cheese mixture. When baked, the cream cheese topping cracks and creates an ‘earthquake’ effect, adding a unique texture and appearance. This indulgent treat is perfect for gatherings and chocolate lovers seeking a decadent, crowd-pleasing dessert.
Ingredients
Cake Base
- 1 box (15.25 oz) chocolate cake mix (any brand)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Toppings
- 1 cup shredded coconut
- 1 cup chopped pecans (or walnuts)
Cream Cheese Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Optional
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the cake mix: Prepare the chocolate cake mix according to the package instructions, incorporating the melted butter as directed to enrich the batter. Pour the batter evenly into the greased baking dish.
- Add toppings: Evenly sprinkle the shredded coconut and chopped pecans over the cake batter surface without mixing them in. This layering will add texture and flavor pockets.
- Make the cream cheese filling: In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, 1/4 cup softened unsalted butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until the mixture is smooth and creamy without lumps.
- Layer the cream cheese mixture: Using a spoon, dollop the cream cheese mixture over the cake batter in several spots, then gently spread it slightly but it does not need to cover the entire surface, as this will create the signature cracked effect.
- Bake the cake: Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes. The cake is done when it is set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The cream cheese topping will crack, giving the earth-shattering appearance of the cake.
- Optional step – Add chocolate chips: If using, sprinkle the semi-sweet chocolate chips on top of the cake during the last 5 minutes of baking to melt slightly and add extra chocolate richness.
- Cool and serve: Allow the cake to cool slightly in the pan before serving. This rich, gooey cake can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- You can substitute walnuts for pecans depending on preference.
- Be sure the cream cheese is softened for easy mixing and smooth filling.
- The cake is best enjoyed the day it’s made but can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Serving with a scoop of vanilla ice cream enhances the dessert experience.
