EARTHQUAKE CAKE greets you like a cozy tremor, layers of golden vanilla sponge trembling under ribbons of gooey chocolate ganache and studded with toasted pecans. Each crackling forkful unleashes waves of creamy buttercream infused with a whisper of orange zest and a hint of coffee, creating a rich symphony on your tongue. It’s the kind of decadent delight that brings friends together, laughs echoing over shared bites and stories flowing as freely as melted fudge. Whether you crowd the countertop or huddle on the couch, this playful confection promises a sweet, unforgettable shake-up at every bite.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This EARTHQUAKE CAKE
- Decadent layers of chocolate and coconut create a flavor explosion.
- Easy to make, perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.
- Each slice is a delightful surprise with its gooey cream cheese center.
- Great for gatherings, it’s sure to impress your friends and family.
- Versatile enough to customize with your favorite nuts or toppings.
EARTHQUAKE CAKE
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure your cake comes out easily.
- Melt the butter in a saucepan. Once melted, pour it into the greased baking dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom.
- Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the melted butter. Do not mix it; just let it sit there for now.
- Pop the dish into the oven and bake for 10 minutes. This will give your cake a nice start!
- While the cake is baking, beat the cream cheese and granulated sugar together until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the partially baked cake. Don’t worry about making it perfect; it will all come together!
- Sprinkle sour cream and powdered sugar on top of the cream cheese mixture. Gently spread it out to cover as much as you can.
- Pour milk over the top of the cake. Then sprinkle with chocolate chips and pecans for that extra crunch and flavor!
- Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 25–30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the edges are golden and the center is set.
- Let the cake cool completely before slicing and serving. Enjoy your delicious Earthquake Cake!
Notes
| Nutrition Facts | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 |
| Fat | 20g |
| Protein | 5g |
| Carbs | 40g |
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients to whip up a delicious Earthquake Cake!
- 1 box yellow cake mix – for a fluffy base
- 1 stick (½ cup) unsalted butter – adds richness
- 8 oz cream cheese – room temperature, for creamy texture
- ¼ cup granulated sugar – sweetens the cream cheese layer
- 2 large eggs – binds the ingredients
- 1 tsp vanilla extract – enhances flavor
- 1 cup sour cream – makes it moist
- ½ cup powdered sugar – for cream cheese frosting
- ¼ cup milk – adjusts frosting consistency
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips – indulgent addition
- 1 cup chopped pecans – optional for crunch
How to Make EARTHQUAKE CAKE
Get ready for a delightful baking adventure! This Earthquake Cake is a fun and delicious treat that will impress everyone. With a preparation time of about 15 minutes, cooking time of 35–40 minutes, and a cooling time to let those flavors meld, you’ll be enjoying this cake in no time!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure your cake comes out easily.
Step 2: Melt the Butter
Melt the butter in a saucepan. Once melted, pour it into the greased baking dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom.
Step 3: Add the Cake Mix
Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the melted butter. Do not mix it; just let it sit there for now.
Step 4: Bake for 10 Minutes
Pop the dish into the oven and bake for 10 minutes. This will give your cake a nice start!
Step 5: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture
While the cake is baking, beat the cream cheese and granulated sugar together until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 6: Add the Cream Cheese Mixture
Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the partially baked cake. Don’t worry about making it perfect; it will all come together!
Step 7: Sprinkle and Spread
Sprinkle sour cream and powdered sugar on top of the cream cheese mixture. Gently spread it out to cover as much as you can.
Step 8: Add Milk and Toppings
Pour milk over the top of the cake. Then sprinkle with chocolate chips and pecans for that extra crunch and flavor!
Step 9: Bake Again
Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 25–30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the edges are golden and the center is set.
Step 10: Cool and Serve
Let the cake cool completely before slicing and serving. Enjoy your delicious Earthquake Cake!
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category | Dessert |
| Cuisine | American |
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 40 minutes |
| Extra Time | 0 minutes |
| Total Time | 55 minutes |
| Dietary | Vegetarian |
| Serves | 12 |
| Best Served | Chilled or at room temperature |
Pro Tips for Making EARTHQUAKE CAKE
- Use ripe bananas for extra sweetness.
- Make the layers even for better presentation.
- Use a cold metal bowl to whip ingredients more quickly.
- Garnish just before serving to keep it fresh.
How to Serve this EARTHQUAKE CAKE
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top.
- Drizzle with chocolate or caramel sauce for extra indulgence.
- Pair with fresh berries for a refreshing contrast.
- Enjoy with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of nuts.
- Serve alongside a cup of hot coffee or herbal tea for a cozy treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
You can make this cake ahead and store it easily:
Storing EARTHQUAKE CAKE Leftovers
- Allow the cake to cool completely.
- Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap.
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freezing EARTHQUAKE CAKE
- Wrap the cooled cake in plastic wrap.
- Then wrap it in aluminum foil for extra protection.
- Label with the date and type of cake.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating EARTHQUAKE CAKE
- Thaw the cake in the refrigerator overnight.
- For a warm slice, microwave for 15-20 seconds.
- Alternatively, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes.
- Enjoy with a scoop of ice cream for extra delight!
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FAQs
Here’s a helpful FAQ about this recipe:
1. What is an earthquake cake?
Earthquake cake is a delightful dessert that combines a rich chocolate cake with a variety of toppings, including coconut, nuts, and a cream cheese layer. The name comes from the way the cake appears to crack and crumble, resembling the effects of an earthquake. It’s a fun and indulgent treat that’s perfect for gatherings or special occasions!
2. How do you make earthquake cake?
To make earthquake cake, start by preparing a chocolate cake mix according to the package instructions. Pour the batter into a greased pan, then sprinkle shredded coconut, chopped nuts, and dollops of cream cheese mixture on top. Bake until set, and enjoy the deliciously gooey and textured result!
3. What does earthquake cake taste like?
Earthquake cake offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The chocolate cake is rich and moist, while the cream cheese layer adds a tangy sweetness. The coconut and nuts provide a lovely crunch, making each bite a delicious experience that’s both comforting and indulgent!
4. Does earthquake cake need to be refrigerated?
Yes, it’s best to refrigerate earthquake cake, especially if it contains cream cheese. Storing it in the fridge helps maintain its freshness and prevents spoilage. Just be sure to cover it well to keep it moist and delicious for your next serving!
Final Thoughts
Earthquake Cake is not just a dessert; it’s a delightful experience that brings joy to any gathering! With its rich flavors and delightful textures, this cake is a breeze to make and a joy to share. So grab your ingredients, unleash your inner baker, and enjoy every delicious bite of this unforgettable treat!