Delicious Earthquake Cake is a dessert that combines the perfect flavors and textures. The moist chocolate cake, creamy cream cheese layer, and melty chocolate chips create an earthquake of taste in every bite. This dessert is sure to become a favorite among chocolate lovers. So gather your ingredients, follow this easy recipe, and prepare to be amazed by this heavenly treat.
Earthquake Cake
Earthquake Cake is a delicious dessert that combines layers of moist German chocolate cake, creamy cream cheese, and a generous sprinkle of chocolate chips. With its rich and indulgent flavors, this cake creates a taste sensation that can only be described as seismic. Each bite is a delightful earthquake of textures and flavors, leaving you craving more.
Whether warm or at room temperature, this cake is a surefire crowd-pleaser that will have your taste buds dancing joyfully. Prepare to be swept off your feet by this irresistible treat.
Earthquake Cake Ingredients
Moist and decadent, this chocolate masterpiece is elevated by layers of toasted coconut, crunchy pecans, and a heavenly cream cheese mixture. Each element creates a flavor explosion that will leave you craving more. These carefully selected ingredients work together harmoniously to create a truly irresistible cake.
- Sweetened Shredded Coconut: Adds a tropical touch and a subtle sweetness to the cake, providing a chewy and flavorful texture.
- Chopped Toasted Pecans: These nutty and crunchy pecans bring a delightful contrast to the softness of the cake, lending a rich and earthy flavor to every bite.
- German Chocolate Cake Mix: The cake’s base provides a moist and rich chocolatey foundation that serves as the perfect canvas for the layers of flavors in the dessert.
- Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese creates a luscious and creamy layer that adds tanginess and a velvety texture to balance the sweetness of the cake.
- Butter: Melted butter contributes richness and enhances the overall flavor and moistness of the cake.
- Powdered Sugar: Combined with cream cheese and butter, powdered sugar sweetens the cream cheese layer, adding a light and fluffy texture.
- Pure Vanilla Extract: A classic flavor enhancer, vanilla extract lends its aromatic and comforting notes to the cream cheese layer, complementing the chocolatey elements.
- Chocolate Chips: Scattered over the cream cheese layer, chocolate chips bring melty pockets of chocolate goodness, adding flavor and decadence.
- Vanilla Ice Cream (optional): This creamy and cool accompaniment enhances the indulgence of the cake, offering a delightful contrast to the warm or room-temperature cake slices.
Tips And Tricks To Enjoy The Best Earthquake Cake
By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a scrumptious and impressive Earthquake Cake that all will enjoy.
- Evenly Distribute Toppings: When sprinkling the shredded coconut, chopped pecans, and chocolate chips, distribute them evenly across the cake batter for a balanced texture and flavor in every bite.
- Use Softened Cream Cheese: To achieve a smooth and creamy cream cheese layer, ensure it is softened to room temperature before mixing it with the other ingredients.
- Adjust Baking Time: Keep an eye on the cake as it bakes and adjust the baking time if needed. Since ovens vary, test the cake’s doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s ready.
- Allow the Cake to Cool: After removing the cake from the oven, let it cool in the pan for a few minutes before cutting it into slices. This helps the layers set and ensures cleaner slices.
- Experiment with Additions: Feel free to get creative with additional mix-ins such as chopped nuts, caramel drizzle, or a dusting of cocoa powder on top. These extra touches can add a personalized touch and enhance the cake’s flavor profile.
- Serve with a Scoop of Ice Cream: For an extra indulgent treat, serve each slice of Earthquake Cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The contrast between the warm cake and the ice cream creates a delightful combination of temperatures and flavors.
Can You Make Earthquake Cake In Other Flavors?
Yes, you can experiment with different flavors for the Earthquake Cake, allowing you to enjoy a variety of delightful flavor combinations in this unique layered cake. These variations allow you to customize the Earthquake Cake to suit your taste preferences and experiment with different flavors and textures. Get creative and have fun exploring these delicious variations.
- Nutty Delight: For a nutty twist, replace the chopped pecans with your favorite nuts, such as walnuts, almonds, or hazelnuts. The different nuts will add unique flavors and textures, giving the cake a delightful crunch and enhancing its overall taste.
- Peanut Butter Bliss: Add a creamy layer of peanut butter to the cream cheese mixture for heavenly peanut butter and chocolate combination. Swirl spoonfuls of peanut butter into the cream cheese layer before baking, creating pockets of gooey peanut butter throughout the cake.
- Caramel Drizzle: Take the Earthquake Cake to the next level by drizzling a luscious caramel sauce over the top. Once the cake is baked and cooled, generously pour warm caramel sauce over the surface, allowing it to cascade down the sides. The caramel adds a sweet and indulgent element that pairs perfectly with the chocolate and cream cheese layers.
- Tropical Twist: Replace the shredded coconut with an equal amount of crushed pineapple for a tropical twist. The pineapple will infuse the cake with a subtle sweetness and a hint of tropical flavor, creating a refreshing variation. You can also sprinkle toasted coconut on top of the cream cheese layer for an added texture and tropical flair.
Can You Replace the German Chocolate Cake Mix?
Yes, you can replace the German cake mix with other cake mixes to create different variations of the Earthquake Cake.
Proper Storage Of Earthquake Cake
While the Earthquake Cake can be stored, it is at its best when consumed fresh. The flavors and textures are most vibrant and enjoyable within the first few days. So, try to enjoy it as soon as possible for the ultimate indulgence.
Room Temperature: If you plan to consume the cake within a day or two, it can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container or covered with plastic wrap to maintain its freshness and texture.
Refrigeration: If you have leftovers or need to store the cake longer, refrigerate it. Place the cake in an airtight container or cover it tightly with plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out. The cream cheese layer may firm slightly in the refrigerator, but the flavors will still be delicious.
Freezing: If you want to freeze the Earthquake Cake, it’s best to do so before adding toppings like ice cream. Wrap individual slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, or place them in freezer bags. Properly wrapped, the cake can be frozen for 2-3 months.
Thawing: Transfer the frozen Earthquake Cake from the freezer to the refrigerator and allow it to thaw slowly overnight. This gradual thawing will help preserve the texture and taste of the cake. Once thawed, bring it to room temperature before serving or enjoy it slightly chilled.
Earthquake Cake Recipe
Equipment
- 9"x13" baking pan
- Cooking spray
- Spatula or hand mixer
- Large mixing bowls
- Toothpick for testing doneness
Ingredients
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 1/2 cup chopped toasted pecans
- 1 box German chocolate cake mix
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 1/3 cups water
- 8 oz. cream cheese softened to room temperature
- 1/2 cup Butter melted
- 2 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp. pure vanilla extract
- Pinch of kosher salt
- 2 cups chocolate chips
- Vanilla ice cream for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9"x13" baking pan with cooking spray. Spread the shredded coconut and chopped pecans evenly on the bottom of the pan.
- Combine the German chocolate cake mix, vegetable oil, eggs, and water in a large mixing bowl. Mix well using a spatula or a hand mixer on low speed until the ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Pour the cake batter over the coconut and pecan layer, evenly covering the entire surface.
- In another large bowl, prepare the cream cheese layer. Beat the softened cream cheese, melted butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt with a hand mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Carefully spread the cream cheese mixture over the chocolate cake batter, using a spatula to create an even layer.
- Sprinkle the chocolate chips generously over the cream cheese layer, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
- Place the baking pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
- Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for a few minutes.
- Cut the earthquake cake into slices and serve either warm or at room temperature. Top each slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.
Video
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smooth layer.
- Customize the toppings using different nuts or caramel drizzle for additional flavor variations.
- Adjust baking time as needed, as oven temperatures may vary.
- Allow the cake to cool slightly before cutting it into slices to maintain its shape.
- Serve the Earthquake Cake warm or at room temperature, and consider adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.
Nutritional Information Per Serving
- Calories: 400-500 calories
- Fats: 20-30 grams
- Saturated Fat: 10-15 grams
- Cholesterol: 40-60 milligrams
- Sodium: 300-400 milligrams
- Carbohydrates: 50-60 grams
- Dietary Fiber: 2-4 grams
- Protein: 5-8 grams
Leave a Reply