Earthquake Cake Recipe

Introduction

Earthquake Cake is a rich and indulgent dessert featuring layers of chocolate cake, nuts, coconut, and a creamy swirl of cream cheese. Its name comes from the delightfully marbled look created during baking, resembling cracks in an earthquake. This treat is perfect for special occasions or whenever you crave a luscious chocolatey bite.

Ingredients

• 1 box chocolate cake mix
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup butter, melted
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
• 1/2 cup sweetened shredded coconut (optional)
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup milk (or as needed for cake mix)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Step 2: Spread chopped nuts and shredded coconut evenly over the bottom of the prepared dish.
3. Step 3: Prepare the chocolate cake batter according to the package directions, adding milk as needed.
4. Step 4: Pour the cake batter evenly over the nut and coconut layer.
5. Step 5: In a separate bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, melted butter, and powdered sugar until smooth.
6. Step 6: Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the cake batter, then gently swirl with a knife to create a marbled effect.
7. Step 7: Sprinkle the semi-sweet chocolate chips evenly across the top.
8. Step 8: Bake for 40–45 minutes, until the top is set and just slightly jiggly in the center.
9. Step 9: Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing. Serve and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

• For a nut-free version, omit the pecans or walnuts and substitute with extra coconut or chocolate chips.
• Try using white chocolate chips or butterscotch chips for a different flavor profile.
• Make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother swirl.
• If you prefer a moister cake, add an extra tablespoon of milk to the cake batter.

Storage

Store leftover Earthquake Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm individual slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds for a soft, delicious treat.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make Earthquake Cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cake a day in advance. Keep it refrigerated and bring to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Can I use a different cake mix flavor?

While chocolate works best for the classic version, you can experiment with devil’s food or even a spice cake mix to create new taste variations.

Earthquake Cake Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 84 reviews

• Author: Lily
• Total Time: 55-60 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings 1x

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Description

Earthquake Cake is a decadent layered chocolate dessert featuring a rich chocolate cake base topped with a creamy swirl of sweetened cream cheese, crunchy nuts, shredded coconut, and melted chocolate chips. This indulgent cake combines smooth, nutty, and chocolaty textures in every bite, perfect for celebrations or a special treat.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Cake Base

• 1 box chocolate cake mix
• 1/2 cup milk (or as needed for cake mix)
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
• 1/2 cup sweetened shredded coconut (optional)

Cream Cheese Swirl

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup butter, melted
• 2 cups powdered sugar

Topping

• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

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Instructions

1. Prepare Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking.
2. Add Nut and Coconut Layer: Evenly spread the chopped pecans or walnuts along with the shredded coconut over the bottom of the prepared baking dish, creating a crunchy base.
3. Mix Cake Batter: In a mixing bowl, prepare the chocolate cake batter according to the instructions on the cake mix box, using milk as specified for the right consistency.
4. Layer Cake Batter: Pour the prepared chocolate cake batter evenly over the nut and coconut layer in the baking dish, ensuring full coverage.
5. Prepare Cream Cheese Mixture: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, melted butter, and powdered sugar together until the mixture is smooth and creamy without lumps.
6. Add Cream Cheese Swirls: Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture randomly over the chocolate cake batter. Using a knife, gently swirl the cream cheese into the batter for a marbled effect.
7. Add Chocolate Chips: Sprinkle the semi-sweet chocolate chips evenly on top of the swirled batter for a rich chocolate garnish.
8. Bake the Cake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, until the top looks set and has a slight jiggle when moved gently.
9. Cool and Serve: Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the pan before slicing into pieces. Serve and enjoy this rich, layered dessert.

Notes

• You can substitute the chopped nuts with your favorite nuts or omit the coconut if you prefer.
• For a denser texture, ensure the cream cheese mixture is fully smooth before swirling.
• Use full-fat cream cheese and butter for the best flavor and texture.
• Allow the cake to cool completely to help the layers set properly and make slicing easier.
• Store leftovers covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: Earthquake Cake, chocolate cake, cream cheese swirl, layered cake, chocolate dessert, nut topping, coconut, semi-sweet chocolate chips