Description
Earthquake Cake is a rich and indulgent chocolate dessert featuring a moist chocolate cake base topped with a gooey cream cheese mixture, shredded coconut, chopped pecans, and optional semi-sweet chocolate chips. The cream cheese layer creates a unique ‘cracked’ or ‘earthquake’ effect on the surface after baking, making it both visually appealing and decadently delicious—a perfect treat for gatherings or special occasions.
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 thoroughly with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the cake mix: Follow the package instructions for the chocolate cake mix, mixing ingredients as directed. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Add toppings: Evenly sprinkle the shredded coconut and chopped pecans over the unbaked cake batter. Make sure not to mix them in; they should sit on top.
- Make the cream cheese filling: In a medium bowl, use a mixer to beat together the softened cream cheese, softened butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Layer the cream cheese mixture: Spoon dollops of the cream cheese filling over the top of the cake batter and gently spread it. It’s fine if the cream cheese layer doesn’t cover the batter completely; it will create a cracked pattern as it bakes.
- Bake the cake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the cake is fully set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The cream cheese topping will form a distinctive cracked or ‘earthquake’ appearance.
- Optional chocolate chip topping: If using, sprinkle semi-sweet chocolate chips over the cake during the last 5 minutes of baking to allow them to melt slightly and add extra chocolate flavor.
- Cool and serve: Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool slightly in the pan before cutting into squares and serving. Enjoy your delicious Earthquake Cake!
Notes
- You can substitute walnuts for pecans if preferred or based on availability.
- Ensure the cream cheese and butter for the filling are properly softened to ensure a smooth mixture.
- Do not mix the coconut and nuts into the cake batter; layering them on top maintains texture contrast and the signature cracked look.
- For a richer flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of coffee or espresso powder to the cake batter.
- Store leftover cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- For best results, let the cake cool slightly before serving to allow the cream cheese topping to set properly.
