Chocolate Earthquake Cake

Chocolate Earthquake Cake is a rich, gooey, and indulgent dessert that lives up to its name. This layered treat combines a chocolate cake base with sweet coconut, crunchy pecans, melty chocolate chips, and a luscious cream cheese filling swirled throughout. Every bite delivers an eruption of textures and flavors, especially when served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cake is as fun to make as it is to eat. It’s easy, uses a boxed cake mix for convenience, and bakes into a showstopping dessert that looks as good as it tastes. The cream cheese filling bubbles through the cake, creating cracks and swirls that give the cake its signature “earthquake” look. It’s the perfect dessert for family gatherings, potlucks, or when you’re simply craving something rich and chocolatey.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 1/2 cups sweetened shredded coconut

• 1/2 cup chopped pecans

• 1 box chocolate cake mix (plus eggs, oil, and water as directed on the box)

• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened

• 1/2 cup butter, melted

• 2 1/2 cups confectioners’ sugar

• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking pan with nonstick cooking spray.

2. Spread the shredded coconut evenly on the bottom of the prepared pan. Sprinkle the chopped pecans over the coconut.

3. Prepare the chocolate cake mix according to the instructions on the box. Pour the cake batter over the coconut and pecans in the pan.

4. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and melted butter together until smooth.

5. Gradually add the confectioners’ sugar and mix on low speed until fully incorporated.

6. Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the cake batter. Do not spread—it will melt and swirl naturally during baking.

7. Sprinkle the chocolate chips evenly over the top of the cake.

8. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean (a little gooey is okay).

9. Let cool slightly before serving. Serve warm for the ultimate gooey texture, optionally topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 12 servings

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cooking Time: 40 minutes

• Total Time: 50 minutes

• Calories per serving: 562 kcal

Variations

• Nut-Free Version: Omit the pecans or replace them with sunflower seeds or crushed pretzels for a nut-free crunch.

• Different Cake Flavors: Try with a German chocolate or devil’s food cake mix for a richer base.

• Add Swirls: Use a butter knife to swirl the cream cheese mixture gently into the batter before baking for a marbled effect.

• More Chocolate: Add white chocolate chips or dark chocolate chunks on top for extra decadence.

• Coconut-Free: Skip the coconut layer if you prefer a simpler chocolate and cream cheese combo.

storage/reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.

Reheating: Warm individual servings in the microwave for 15–20 seconds to restore that gooey texture. Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream if desired.

FAQs

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, Chocolate Earthquake Cake can be made a day in advance. Just reheat slices slightly before serving for the best texture.

Can I use a homemade chocolate cake batter instead of boxed mix?

Absolutely. Any chocolate cake recipe that fits a 9×13-inch pan will work well.

Is the cream cheese layer supposed to sink or stay on top?

It will naturally swirl and sink slightly during baking, creating the “earthquake” appearance.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Cream cheese is essential for the texture and flavor, so substitutions are not recommended.

What if I don’t like coconut?

You can leave out the coconut or replace it with another filling like mini marshmallows or cookie crumbs.

Can this be made gluten-free?

Yes, just use a gluten-free chocolate cake mix and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Do I need to refrigerate leftovers?

If you’re keeping it for more than 2 days, refrigeration is best to maintain freshness.

Can I add extra toppings after baking?

Yes, a drizzle of chocolate syrup or caramel sauce makes it even more decadent.

Will this work in a different pan size?

For best results, use a 9×13-inch pan. Smaller pans may require longer baking and could overflow.

Can I freeze Chocolate Earthquake Cake?

Yes, wrap slices tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.

Conclusion

Chocolate Earthquake Cake is the kind of dessert that’s impossible to forget—rich, gooey, and brimming with chocolate and cream cheese goodness. With simple prep and showstopping results, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether served warm with ice cream or enjoyed as-is, this cake is pure indulgence in every bite.

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