Description
Classic Earthquake Cake is a rich and indulgent dessert featuring a moist German chocolate cake base layered with shredded coconut and pecans, topped with a luscious cream cheese swirl. The combination of textures and flavors creates a decadent treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Base
- 1 cup sweetened, shredded coconut
- 1 cup pecans, roughly chopped
- 1 (15.25 oz) box German chocolate cake mix
- 1 cup water
- ½ cup vegetable or canola oil
- 3 eggs
For the Cream Cheese Swirl
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese
- ½ cup butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- 2 cups powdered sugar
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Create the Nut and Coconut Layer: Evenly spread the sweetened shredded coconut across the bottom of the prepared baking dish, then sprinkle the roughly chopped pecans evenly over the coconut layer.
- Mix the Cake Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the German chocolate cake mix, water, vegetable or canola oil, and eggs. Stir until the batter is smooth and fully integrated.
- Layer the Batter: Pour the cake batter evenly over the coconut and pecan layers in the baking dish, ensuring it covers the nuts and coconut completely.
- Prepare Cream Cheese Mixture: In a separate bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, butter, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and continue mixing until the mixture is well combined and creamy.
- Swirl the Cream Cheese: Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the cake batter in the pan, then use a knife or skewer to lightly swirl the cream cheese into the batter for a marbled effect.
- Bake the Cake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
- Cool Before Serving: Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for at least 30 minutes before slicing and serving. This cooling time helps the cake set and enhances the flavors.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese, butter, and eggs are at room temperature for easier mixing and better texture.
- Swirling the cream cheese mixture lightly avoids fully mixing it with the cake batter, preserving the distinct layers and textures.
- Feel free to substitute pecans with walnuts if preferred.
- Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator; this cake is best enjoyed within 3-4 days.
- For added texture, you may toast the coconut and pecans lightly before layering for a nuttier flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Earthquake Cake, German chocolate cake, cream cheese swirl, coconut cake, pecan dessert, layered cake, classic cake recipe
