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Earthquake Cake Recipe

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4.2 from 54 reviews

Earthquake Cake is a decadent and rich dessert featuring a fudgy chocolate cake base layered over a crunchy pecan and coconut crust, topped with creamy sweetened cream cheese dollops and melted chocolate chips. This easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing recipe combines multiple textures and flavors into one indulgent treat perfect for family gatherings and celebrations.

Ingredients

For the Crust

  • Cooking spray, as needed
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans
  • 1 1/2 cups sweetened flaked coconut

For the Cake

  • 1 box chocolate fudge cake mix
  • Eggs, oil, and water as required by the cake mix package directions

For the Topping

  • 1/2 cup butter, melted
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 2 1/2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pan: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Coat a 9″x13″ baking pan evenly with cooking spray to prevent sticking during baking.
  2. Create the Nutty Coconut Layer: Spread the chopped pecans and sweetened flaked coconut in an even layer across the bottom of the prepared pan, forming the crunchy base layer.
  3. Mix and Pour Cake Batter: Prepare the chocolate fudge cake mix according to the package instructions using the specified amounts of eggs, oil, and water. Pour the batter carefully over the layered pecans and coconut in the pan.
  4. Make Cream Cheese Mixture: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with a mixer until smooth. Add the melted butter and continue beating until fully combined and creamy.
  5. Add Powdered Sugar: Gradually incorporate the powdered sugar into the cream cheese mixture, mixing on low speed until the mixture reaches a smooth, spreadable consistency.
  6. Top the Cake Batter: Drop dollops of the cream cheese mixture over the cake batter in the pan. Then sprinkle the semisweet chocolate chips evenly across the surface.
  7. Bake the Cake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 40 minutes, or until the cake is set and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  8. Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan. Cut into squares and serve to enjoy the delicious layers and textures.

Notes

  • Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps in the topping mixture.
  • Use a boxed chocolate fudge cake mix for convenience and consistent results.
  • For extra flavor, lightly toast the pecans and coconut before layering.
  • Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Allow the cake to cool fully before cutting to maintain clean slices.