Classic Earthquake Cake

There are cakes you bake because you need dessert—and then there are cakes you bake because you can’t wait to watch the magic happen in the oven. This Classic Earthquake Cake is one of those magical bakes. With its cracked top, gooey pockets of cream cheese, and nutty-coconut base, it looks rustic and dramatic without any need for frosting. Honestly, it’s the kind of cake that makes people stop mid-bite and say, “Wait…what IS this?!”

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Why You’ll Love This Earthquake Cake

Starts with a cake mix – ultimate ease without sacrificing flavor.
Layers of texture – chewy coconut, crunchy pecans, fluffy cake, and creamy swirls.
Show-stopping look – the cracked, swirled top makes it a centerpiece dessert.
No frosting needed – all the flavor is built right in!

What Does Earthquake Cake Taste Like?

Think German chocolate cake, but with an irresistible twist. The bottom bakes into a sweet, nutty crust from the coconut and pecans. The cake itself stays moist and chocolatey, while the cream cheese swirl adds ribbons of tangy, buttery richness. Every bite is different—gooey here, crunchy there, fluffy in between—and that’s exactly what makes it so addictive!

Benefits of This Recipe

Perfect for birthdays, potlucks, or holidays.
Stores beautifully (and might taste even better the next day).
Minimal prep time with maximum flavor.
Beginner-friendly yet looks impressive.

Ingredients

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 large eggs
1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
½ cup butter, softened
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups powdered sugar

Tools You’ll Need

9×13-inch baking dish
Mixing bowls (one large, one medium)
Hand mixer or stand mixer
Whisk and spatula

Ingredient Swaps & Additions

No pecans? Swap with walnuts, almonds, or leave nuts out altogether.
Want it less sweet? Use unsweetened coconut instead of sweetened.
Extra chocolatey: Stir in chocolate chips to the batter.
Festive twist: Add a swirl of peanut butter or Nutella into the cream cheese layer.