If you have a love for desserts that bring a little joyful chaos to the table, then this Earthquake Cake Recipe is about to become your go-to sweet treat. This cake’s name perfectly captures the magic happening inside the pan—a luscious, gooey center that quakes slightly when you cut into it, layered with crunchy coconut and pecans, and drenched in rich chocolate and cream cheese goodness. It’s a delightfully easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing dessert that feels both homey and a bit decadent. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, a potluck, or just because you deserve something special, this recipe delivers pure comfort and smiles in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t be intimidated by the vibrant flavors of this Earthquake Cake Recipe. The ingredients are simple but purposefully chosen to create a perfect blend of textures and tastes that make this cake so unforgettable. Each item enhances the final dish—adding crunch, richness, sweetness, or that signature gooey, luscious bite.
- Sweetened shredded coconut: Provides a chewy texture and a tropical hint that brightens the cake’s flavor.
- Chopped pecans: Adds a lovely nutty crunch that contrasts with the softness of the batter and filling.
- German chocolate cake mix (plus ingredients listed on box): The base of the cake, offering a rich, chocolaty foundation with ease.
- Cream cheese (softened): Gives the filling its signature tang and creamy texture for that gooey center.
- Unsalted butter (melted): Adds richness and helps to smooth out the cream cheese mixture.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese mixture while keeping it silky smooth.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances and rounds out the flavors with a warm, floral note.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips: Melt slightly on top during baking, creating pockets of soft, chocolaty bliss.
How to Make Earthquake Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Layer the Crunch
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly greasing a 9×13-inch baking pan. This sets the stage for the cake to bake evenly and release beautifully. Sprinkle your shredded coconut and chopped pecans evenly over the bottom of the pan. This bottom layer is essential because it forms the crunchy, nutty base that contrasts perfectly with the creamy, gooey layers above.
Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter
Next, prepare the German chocolate cake mix as directed on the box, mixing it until smooth but don’t overbeat—this keeps the texture tender. Pour the batter evenly over the coconut and pecan layer in the pan. The batter will start to sink slightly, but that’s exactly what we want for the unique texture.
Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Mixture
In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, melted butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together until you have a smooth, luscious mixture. This creamy combo will create that iconic gooey pocket inside the cake, making each bite irresistibly moist and flavorful.
Step 4: Add Cream Cheese Dollops and Chocolate Chips
Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the cake batter—resist the urge to spread it out. These dollops will sink as the cake bakes, creating the earthquake effect we love. Finally, sprinkle the semi-sweet chocolate chips on top for bursts of melty chocolate throughout the cake.
Step 5: Bake and Cool
Bake your masterpiece for 45 to 50 minutes. You’ll notice the edges set in a gorgeous golden crust while the center remains a bit gooey—just how it should be. Allow the cake to cool slightly before serving warm or wait until it cools completely; the choice is yours depending on how melty or neat you want your slices.
How to Serve Earthquake Cake Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance your Earthquake Cake Recipe with simple garnishes like a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of caramel sauce to add extra sweetness and visual appeal. Fresh whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side can temper the rich gooeyness and create a sensational balance.
Side Dishes
Pair this cake with fresh berries or a tangy fruit salad to cut through the richness and add a refreshing contrast. A cup of robust coffee or a spiced chai tea also complements the intense chocolate and cream cheese flavors beautifully, rounding out the dessert experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For gatherings, consider serving the Earthquake Cake in individual ramekins for a personal touch. You can also layer it with whipped cream and berries in a trifle dish for a stunning twist. Just remember, no matter how you present it, the main event is that wonderfully gooey, nutty cake!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This cake keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. The gooey center firms slightly when chilled but rewarms wonderfully. Always cover it well to prevent the cake from drying out or absorbing other fridge smells.
Freezing
If you want to save leftovers longer, Earthquake Cake freezes beautifully. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then place in a freezer-safe container. It will keep in the freezer for up to two months without losing that signature texture.
Reheating
To enjoy the cake after refrigeration or freezing, warm a slice gently in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or until just warm and gooey again. You can also reheat it in a low oven (around 300°F/150°C) covered with foil to keep moisture locked in. This brings back the fresh-baked warmth we all love.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of nuts in this Earthquake Cake Recipe?
Absolutely! While pecans are traditional and add great flavor, walnuts or even chopped almonds work wonderfully. Each nut will bring a slightly different texture and taste, so feel free to experiment based on what you prefer or have on hand.
Is it necessary to use a German chocolate cake mix?
Using a German chocolate cake mix is key to achieving that classic flavor and structure, but if you prefer, you could try a scratch-made German chocolate batter or even a rich chocolate cake mix—just keep in mind the overall flavor will shift slightly.
What is the best way to slice Earthquake Cake?
Since the cake has a gooey center, a sharp, thin-bladed knife is your best bet. Clean the blade between cuts to ensure tidy slices. Serving it warm makes a bit more mess but offers incredible melty texture; cutting when fully cooled is neater.
Can I make the cream cheese mixture ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the cream cheese mixture a few hours in advance and keep it refrigerated until ready to use. Just give it a quick stir before dropping spoonfuls on the cake batter.
Does this cake freeze well after baking?
Definitely. The cake freezes well while maintaining the gooey texture if properly wrapped. Thaw overnight in the fridge and warm gently for best results before serving.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for an indulgent but effortless dessert that combines textures and flavors in a delightful way, this Earthquake Cake Recipe is your answer. It’s a true showstopper without requiring hours in the kitchen, perfect for sharing with friends and family or treating yourself. Trust me, once you try it, this gooey, nutty, chocolatey cake will become a forever favorite you keep coming back to!
Print
Earthquake Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Earthquake Cake is a decadent American dessert featuring a rich German chocolate cake base layered over toasted coconut and pecans, topped with swirls of sweetened cream cheese mixture and chocolate chips. This gooey, luscious cake is perfect for gatherings and serves as a comforting indulgence with a unique texture and burst of flavors.
Ingredients
Base Layer
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 cup chopped pecans
Cake Batter
- 1 box German chocolate cake mix (plus ingredients listed on box)
Cream Cheese Topping
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Additional Topping
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan to prevent sticking.
- Make Layer Base: Evenly sprinkle the shredded coconut and chopped pecans over the bottom of the prepared pan to create a nutty and textured base layer.
- Prepare Cake Batter: Follow the package directions to prepare the German chocolate cake mix batter. Then pour this batter evenly over the layer of coconut and pecans in the pan.
- Mix Cream Cheese Topping: In a separate bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, melted butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Top the Cake Batter: Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cake batter without spreading it, creating pockets of sweet, creamy topping.
- Add Chocolate Chips: Sprinkle the semi-sweet chocolate chips evenly over the top of the cream cheese mixture for a final chocolatey accent.
- Bake: Bake the cake in the preheated oven for 45–50 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center remains slightly gooey, giving the cake its characteristic texture.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool slightly if serving warm or let it cool completely for cleaner slices. Enjoy as is or with a scoop of ice cream.
Notes
- This cake has a gooey center, so don’t expect a traditional rise or crumb.
- Delicious served warm with ice cream for a comforting dessert experience.
- You can substitute walnuts for pecans if preferred.
- For a flavor twist, add butterscotch chips along with or instead of the chocolate chips.
