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Earthquake Cake Recipe

Earthquake Cake Recipe

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4.8 from 12 reviews

  • Author: admin
  • Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Earthquake Cake is a deliciously rich and decadent dessert featuring a moist German chocolate cake base layered with sweet shredded coconut, crunchy pecans, and a creamy, swirled cream cheese topping studded with chocolate chips. Named for its characteristic cracks and swirls resembling an earthquake’s aftermath, this cake is perfect for gatherings and offers a delightful balance of textures and flavors.

Ingredients

Scale

Cake Batter

  • 1 box German chocolate cake mix
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 cup water
  • 3 large eggs

Nut and Coconut Layer

  • 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
  • 1 cup chopped pecans

Cream Cheese Topping

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Finishing Touch

  • 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Instructions

  1. Prep the Pan and Nut Layer: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the shredded coconut and chopped pecans over the bottom of the dish to create the base layer for the cake.
  2. Prepare the Cake Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the German chocolate cake mix with 1/2 cup vegetable oil, 1 cup water, and 3 large eggs. Mix thoroughly according to the package directions until smooth and well blended.
  3. Assemble the Cake: Pour the prepared cake batter evenly over the coconut and pecan layer in the baking dish, spreading gently without disturbing the nut layer beneath.
  4. Make the Cream Cheese Topping: In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the melted butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract, mixing until the mixture is light and fluffy.
  5. Top with Cream Cheese Mixture: Using a spoon, drop dollops of the cream cheese mixture over the cake batter; do not spread it out. During baking, this topping will sink and swirl through the cake, creating its signature pattern.
  6. Add Chocolate Chips: Sprinkle the semi-sweet chocolate chips evenly over the top of the cream cheese mixture for added sweetness and texture.
  7. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the center is just set and a toothpick inserted into the cake comes out with moist crumbs.
  8. Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool slightly before slicing. It is best enjoyed warm or at room temperature.

Notes

  • The cake cracks and swirls during baking, creating the unique ‘earthquake’ appearance.
  • You can substitute walnuts for pecans if preferred.
  • Try using white chocolate or butterscotch chips instead of semi-sweet chocolate chips for a different twist.
  • Best served slightly warm or at room temperature to enjoy the melty cream cheese swirls.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 50 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 470
  • Sugar: 42g
  • Sodium: 360mg
  • Fat: 27g
  • Saturated Fat: 13g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 11g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 54g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 65mg

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Find it online: https://jonschelanderpugh.com/earthquake-cake-recipe/