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This Earthquake Cake is a playful twist on classic chocolate cake, loaded with pockets of gooey cream cheese, toasted pecans, chocolate chips, and chewy coconut for mountains of bold flavor and texture in every slice. When you want a dessert that wows kids and adults alike with its messy but irresistible appearance, this is my go to recipe for potlucks and family celebrations. Serve it still warm for the ultimate melty treat.
I first made this Earthquake Cake for a birthday when I was short on time It was such a hit that now we make it every year whether or not anyone’s birthday is happening
Ingredients
- Chopped pecans: add crunch and a nutty layer at the base Go for fresh pecans for best flavor
- Sweetened shredded coconut: brings nice chew and sweetness Choose moist shreds not dry flakes
- Chocolate fudge cake mix: easy shortcut for deep chocolate flavor Check for a good brand to ensure a moist result
- Eggs, oil and water: as called for by cake mix Makes the batter rich and moist
- Semisweet chocolate chips: classic meltiness and deep flavor Use a good quality chip for best ooze
- Canola or vegetable oil: helps the chocolate chips melt evenly and stay glossy
- Flour: dust the chips so they don’t sink in the batter
- Unsalted butter: melts into the cream cheese swirl and lifts the flavor Choose high quality butter when you can
- Cream cheese: brings tang and creaminess let it fully soften for smooth mixing
- Powdered sugar: adds sweetness and structure to the cream cheese filling Sift if lumpy for a silky texture
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Pan:
- Spray a deep 9 by 13 inch baking dish with nonstick spray so nothing sticks Sprinkle the pecans and coconut evenly across the bottom This gives you a crunchy chewy crust
- Make the Cake Batter:
- Mix the cake according to the package with eggs oil and water Follow box directions for best texture
- Add Chocolate Chips:
- Mix a portion of chocolate chips with a bit of oil then dust with flour This keeps them suspended in the batter Stir these chips into the chocolate cake batter Spoon the batter gently over the coconut and nuts so you do not disturb the layers
- Make Cream Cheese Filling:
- Melt butter and let it cool Beat the softened cream cheese in a bowl until smooth and lump free Slowly beat in melted butter for a rich creamy swirl Add powdered sugar slowly until mixture is thick but falls off the spoon easily
- Add Swirls and Toppings:
- Drop large spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture all over the cake batter Do not worry about being neat Scatter on the remaining chocolate chips
- Bake:
- Bake at 350 degrees for about 40 minutes The cake should look set in the center and spring back when gently pressed but still have gooey spots from the cream cheese
- Cool and Serve:
- Let the cake cool slightly before serving Enjoy warm if possible for the best melty chocolate pools
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My favorite part is the crispy coconut and pecan layer at the bottom It brings back memories of eating German chocolate cake at family reunions but with even more fun texture My kids beg to swirl the cream cheese topping every single time
Storage Tips
Store leftover cake tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to four days The cream cheese means it should stay chilled for best food safety Reheat slices gently in the microwave for a few seconds to restore the gooey texture
Ingredient Substitutions
No pecans on hand Try walnuts or even slivered almonds for a twist
Dairy free cream cheese and non dairy butter work if needed just go for a thicker brand so the filling doesn’t run
If you love extra chocolate stir in some mini chips for even more pockets of deliciousness
Serving Suggestions
Serve this cake warm with vanilla ice cream for the full over the top experience
Add a drizzle of caramel sauce or a dusting of cocoa powder before serving for extra flair
Great for birthday parties or potlucks since it feeds a big crowd and looks impressive right out of the pan
Cultural and Historical Context
Earthquake Cake likely comes from Southern American kitchens where inventive home bakers loved mixing surprise swirls into simple recipes These “crater cakes” became party favorites in the 1970s for their dramatic appearance and easy prep kind of like a poke cake meets turtle brownies
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What makes earthquake cake unique?
Its signature look comes from dollops of sweetened cream cheese that create craters and crevices while baking, giving every piece a deliciously gooey pocket.
- → Can I use different nuts besides pecans?
Yes, walnuts or almonds can be substituted for pecans if you prefer a different nut flavor or texture.
- → Is the coconut flavor strong?
The sweetened shredded coconut adds a pleasant toasted note, but it blends harmoniously with the chocolate and other elements.
- → What's the best way to serve this dessert?
Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream to complement the rich chocolate and mellow the sweet cream cheese swirls.
- → How do I know when it's finished baking?
The center should be just set and lightly springy—avoid using the toothpick test because of the creamy sections.
- → Can this cake be made ahead?
Yes, it can be baked in advance and gently reheated before serving for the best flavor and texture.