Name: Earthquake Cake Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 15.25 oz Chocolate Cake Mix (Any standard mix will do); 3 large Eggs (As instructed on the package); 0.5 cup Vegetable Oil (Ensures a moist cake); 1 cup Water (For hydration); 8 oz Cream Cheese (Softened and at room temperature); 0.5 cup Unsalted Butter (Melted); 2 cups Powdered Sugar (No substitutes recommended); 1 cup Sweetened Shredded Coconut (Can be substituted or omitted); 1 cup Chopped Pecans (Or walnuts/slivered almonds); 1 cup Chocolate Chips (Variations welcome)

Introduction

Earthquake Cake is a delightful dessert that combines layers of rich chocolate, creamy swirls, nuts, and coconut for a truly indulgent treat. Easy to make and perfect for sharing, this cake offers a wonderful balance of textures. Whether for a family gathering or a sweet craving, it’s sure to impress.

A rich chocolate cake slice with two visible layers sits on a white plate over a white marbled surface. The bottom layer is a thick, moist, dark brown chocolate cake with a soft and slightly crumbly texture. Above it is a smooth, creamy white layer with small dark chocolate chunks embedded inside. The top is decorated with numerous glossy dark chocolate chips scattered evenly and drizzled with thin lines of shiny dark chocolate sauce. The edges of the cake are clean, and the whole piece looks moist and decadent. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

15.25 oz Chocolate Cake Mix (any standard mix will do)

3 large Eggs (as instructed on the package)

0.5 cup Vegetable Oil (ensures a moist cake)

1 cup Water (for hydration)

8 oz Cream Cheese (softened and at room temperature)

0.5 cup Unsalted Butter (melted)

2 cups Powdered Sugar (no substitutes recommended)

1 cup Sweetened Shredded Coconut (can be substituted or omitted)

1 cup Chopped Pecans (or walnuts/slivered almonds)

1 cup Chocolate Chips (variations welcome)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly.

Step 2: Evenly sprinkle the sweetened shredded coconut across the bottom of the prepared baking dish, then layer the chopped pecans on top of the coconut.

Step 3: Prepare the chocolate cake batter according to the package instructions using the eggs, vegetable oil, and water. Pour the batter gently over the nuts and coconut layer, spreading evenly.

Step 4: In a medium bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, melted butter, and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. Drop spoonfuls of this cream cheese mixture over the chocolate cake batter and gently swirl it with a knife or spatula.

Step 5: Sprinkle the chocolate chips evenly over the top of the cake mixture.

Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly gooey. The edges should be firm and golden.

Step 7: Allow the cake to cool in the baking dish for about 15 minutes before serving warm for the best flavor and texture.

Tips & Variations

For a nut-free version, omit the pecans and replace with extra shredded coconut or add dried fruit like cherries.

Use cream cheese at room temperature to ensure a smooth swirl without lumps.

Try white or semi-sweet chocolate chips instead of regular for a different flavor profile.

To make it extra moist, consider adding a tablespoon of sour cream to the cream cheese mixture.

FAQs

Can I use a different cake mix flavor?

Yes, while chocolate is traditional, you can experiment with other flavors such as devil’s food or even a marble cake mix for a twist on the classic.

Is it necessary to use sweetened shredded coconut?

Sweetened coconut adds a nice balance of flavor and moisture, but you can substitute with unsweetened shredded coconut or omit it if preferred. Keep in mind this will change the sweetness slightly.