Get ready for a dessert that's about to shake up your baking world! This Pumpkin Spice Earthquake Cake is not just a dessert; it's a delicious geological event happening right in your kitchen. Imagine a decadent blend of moist pumpkin-spiced cake, creamy cream cheese swirls, and rich chocolate chips that literally "earthquakes" as it bakes, creating a stunning, cracked landscape of pure indulgence. Whether you're a pumpkin spice fanatic or just looking for a show-stopping dessert that will have everyone asking for seconds, this recipe is your ultimate culinary adventure!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 50 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 servings
Ingredients
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin spice
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan thoroughly with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, pumpkin puree, eggs, pumpkin spice, and vegetable oil. Mix with an electric mixer on medium speed for 2-3 minutes until smooth and well blended.
- In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and mix until completely incorporated and smooth.
- Pour the cake batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly across the bottom.
- Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture randomly over the cake batter.
- Sprinkle chocolate chips and chopped nuts (if using) evenly across the top of the cake.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes. The cake will create a cracked, earthquake-like appearance as it bakes.
- Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center. It should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter.
- Remove from oven and let cool completely in the pan for at least 1 hour before cutting into squares.
- For best results, refrigerate for 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to set and the cake to firm up.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature. Optional: dust with additional powdered sugar or top with whipped cream before serving.
Tips
- Room Temperature Matters: Ensure your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature for smoother mixing and better texture.
- Don't Overmix: When combining cake mix ingredients, mix just until smooth to prevent a tough cake.
- Random is Key: When adding cream cheese mixture, deliberately drop spoonfuls randomly for that classic "earthquake" effect.
- Pan Preparation is Crucial: Grease your pan thoroughly to ensure easy removal and prevent sticking.
- Cooling is Critical: Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan to help it set and develop its signature cracked appearance.
- Make Ahead Friendly: This cake actually tastes better after being refrigerated for a few hours, making it perfect for advance preparation.
- Customize Your Quake: Feel free to experiment with different mix-ins like pecans, walnuts, or even caramel chips to make the recipe your own!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 65mg
