Earthquake Cake

Imagine a cake so deliciously chaotic that it seems to erupt with flavor right out of the oven! The Earthquake Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the decadence of a German chocolate cake with a surprise layer of coconut, chocolate chips, and pecans, all swirled together with a rich cream cheese frosting that forms right inside the cake. This treat is perfect for any gathering, offering a unique twist that will leave your guests talking long after the last bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Earthquake Cake is a real showstopper, not just because of its unique appearance, but also for its incredible taste. The cracked surface reveals a gooey, creamy layer that blends perfectly with the chocolatey base. It’s a no-fuss cake that doesn’t require additional frosting, making it both simple and indulgent. Plus, the combination of textures from the nuts and coconut will have you coming back for more!

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• 9 x 13-inch baking pan
• Spatula or hand mixer
• Saucepan
• Knife for swirling
• Non-stick cooking spray

Ingredients

• 1 box German Chocolate Cake Mix
• 1/3 cup vegetable oil
• 3 large eggs
• 1 and 1/3 cup water
• 2/3 cup shredded coconut
• 2/3 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans
• 1 stick (1/2 cup) unsalted butter
• 8 oz cream cheese
• 1 pound powdered sugar (3 and 3/4 cups)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.
2. Lightly spray a 9 x 13-inch pan with non-stick cooking spray.
3. Evenly sprinkle the coconut, chocolate chips, and pecans on the bottom of the pan.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine the German chocolate cake mix with oil, eggs, and water using a spatula or hand mixer on low speed.
5. Pour the cake batter over the coconut, chocolate chips, and pecans in the pan.
6. In a saucepan, melt the butter and cream cheese together until smooth.
7. Gradually add the powdered sugar to the butter and cream cheese mixture, beating until smooth.
8. Spread this cream cheese mixture over the uncooked cake batter in the pan. Use a knife to swirl it into the cake batter.
9. Bake for 35-45 minutes. The cake is done when it no longer wobbles when you gently shake the pan. Note that the usual toothpick test won’t work as the cake should have a gooey texture.
10. Enjoy your Earthquake Cake! Store any leftovers in the fridge.

Tips for Success

• Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened for a smooth mixture.
• Swirl the cream cheese mixture gently to create a marbled effect.

Additional Tips and Variations

For a different flavor profile, try adding a handful of toffee bits or substituting walnuts for pecans. You can also experiment with dark chocolate chips for a richer taste.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

This cake is a decadent treat and best enjoyed in moderation. Each serving is packed with flavor and contains a balanced blend of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. Remember, it’s all about balance!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Can I use a different flavor of cake mix?
  Yes, feel free to explore with different cake mixes to find your favorite combination.
• How should I store leftovers?
  Store any leftover cake in the refrigerator, covered, to maintain its freshness.
• Can I freeze this cake?
  Yes, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure it’s tightly wrapped.

Conclusion

This Earthquake Cake is sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. It’s easy to make, visually impressive, and absolutely delicious. I invite you to give this recipe a try and let me know how it turns out. Don’t forget to share your Earthquake Cake creations and experiences in the comments below!