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
Scale
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.
