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Earthquake Cake

Earthquake Cake

  • Author: easysweetmeal
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 12–16 servings 1x

Description

Earthquake Cake – A chocolate lover’s dream! This decadent, crackled cake erupts with swirls of coconut, pecans, and melty chocolate as it bakes—no frosting needed. Every slice is a gooey, nutty, cocoa-packed surprise.

Ingredients

Scale

  • 1 box chocolate cake mix (15.25 oz)

  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

  • 1 cup sour cream

  • 3 large eggs

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

  • ½ cup shredded sweetened coconut

  • ½ cup chopped pecans

  • ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

  • ½ cup powdered sugar (for topping)

Instructions

Step 1: Prep Your Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.

Step 2: Make the Cake Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, melted butter, sour cream, eggs, and vanilla extract.
Mix with a whisk or spatula until the batter is thick and smooth.

Step 3: Assemble the Earthquake Layers

Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
Sprinkle the shredded coconut, chopped pecans, and chocolate chips over the top.

Step 4: Create the Earthquake Effect

Using a spoon or spatula, gently swirl the toppings into the batter.
Do not overmix — the uneven swirl is what gives the cake its cracked, “earthquake” appearance.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake in the center of the oven for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean.
The cake should rise and crack slightly on top.

Step 6: Cool and Finish

Allow the cake to cool in the baking dish for 10–15 minutes.
Dust the top with powdered sugar, slice, and serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

  • This recipe works best with name-brand cake mixes for consistent texture.

  • For best presentation, wait until the cake cools slightly before dusting with powdered sugar.

  • For a fudgier center, pull the cake out at the 35-minute mark.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35–40 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://easysweetmeal.com/earthquake-cake/