Description

Get ready to dig into this molten, gooey Earthquake Cake that’s bursting with creamy swirls, fudgy chocolate, crunchy pecans, and sweet coconut. This easy dessert recipe uses a simple cake mix and transforms into a decadent, layered treat without any frosting or decorating. Perfect for quick dessert ideas, party cakes, or a comforting chocolate fix, this easy recipe checks all the boxes—gooey center, crackled top, and swirls of cream cheese that shake things up with every bite. A must-try for fans of easy baking ideas, potluck desserts, and no-fuss chocolate cakes.

Ingredients

1 cup sweetened shredded coconut

1 cup chopped pecans

1 box (15.25 oz) chocolate cake mix

3 large eggs (for cake mix)

1/2 cup vegetable oil (for cake mix)

1 cup water (for cake mix)

8 oz cream cheese, softened

1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

2 cups powdered sugar

1 cup chocolate chips

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. Sprinkle the shredded coconut evenly across the bottom of the dish, followed by the chopped pecans.

3. Prepare the chocolate cake mix according to the package instructions using eggs, oil, and water.

4. Pour the cake batter over the coconut and pecans, spreading evenly.

5. In a separate bowl, mix softened cream cheese, melted butter, and powdered sugar until smooth.

6. Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the batter and gently swirl with a knife.

7. Sprinkle chocolate chips over the top.

8. Bake for 45–50 minutes or until the center is set and the top is crackled.

9. Let cool for 15 minutes before slicing and serving warm or at room temperature.

Notes

Let the cake cool for 10–15 minutes before slicing to allow it to set but stay gooey.

Use room-temperature cream cheese to avoid clumps in your swirl mixture.

You can freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic and foil for up to 2 months.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 480
Sugar: 38g
Sodium: 420mg
Fat: 27g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Unsaturated Fat: 13g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 55g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 5g
Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: Earthquake cake, chocolate cake mix, easy dessert, gooey cake, potluck dessert