Why Make This Recipe
Earthquake Cake is a fun and delicious dessert that’s perfect for gatherings and family get-togethers. Its unique name comes from the “earthquake” effect created when the cream cheese filling sinks into the chocolate cake, giving it a beautiful marbled look. This cake has a rich chocolate flavor, combined with the nutty crunch of pecans and the sweetness of coconut. It’s easy to make and is sure to impress everyone who tries it!
How to Make Earthquake Cake
Ingredients
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1 cup shredded coconut
- 1 box German chocolate cake mix
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 8 oz cream cheese
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Spread chopped pecans and shredded coconut in the bottom of the pan.
- In a large bowl, mix the cake mix, eggs, water, and vegetable oil until smooth. Pour the batter over the nuts and coconut.
- In another bowl, beat together the cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the cake batter.
- Swirl the cream cheese into the batter with a knife.
- Sprinkle chocolate chips on top.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow to cool before serving.
How to Serve Earthquake Cake
Serve Earthquake Cake warm or at room temperature. You can enjoy it as is, or add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for a special treat. It’s also nice to top it with whipped cream or extra chocolate chips for more flavor.
How to Store Earthquake Cake
To keep your Earthquake Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week. Just remember to let it come back to room temperature before serving for the best taste and texture.
Tips to Make Earthquake Cake
- Make sure to mix the cake batter well for a smooth texture.
- You can experiment with different nuts or use different types of chocolate chips to customize the flavor.
- If you prefer a sweeter cake, add more powdered sugar to the cream cheese filling.
Variation
For a twist on the traditional Earthquake Cake, try using a white chocolate cake mix instead of German chocolate. You can also add a layer of fruit, like crushed pineapples or cherries, to enhance the flavor.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cake mix?
Yes, you can use any flavor of cake mix you like! Just keep in mind that it will change the overall taste of the cake.
Can I freeze Earthquake Cake?
Yes! You can freeze the cake before or after baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then store it in the freezer for up to 3 months.
What can I use instead of pecans?
If you don’t like pecans or have allergies, you can substitute them with walnuts, almonds, or even leave them out entirely.
Earthquake Cake
Ingredients
For the cake
- 1 box German chocolate cake mix Any flavor can be substituted
- 4 large eggs Room temperature
- 1 cup water Temperature not specified
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
For the filling and topping
- 8 oz cream cheese Softened for easier mixing
- 1 cup powdered sugar Adjust for sweetness preference
- 1 cup chopped pecans Can substitute with other nuts
- 1 cup shredded coconut Sweetened or unsweetened according to taste
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips Use semi-sweet or dark chocolate for richer flavor
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Spread chopped pecans and shredded coconut in the bottom of the pan.
- In a large bowl, mix the cake mix, eggs, water, and vegetable oil until smooth. Pour the batter over the nuts and coconut.
- In another bowl, beat together the cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the cake batter.
- Swirl the cream cheese into the batter with a knife.
- Sprinkle chocolate chips on top.
Baking
- Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow to cool before serving.