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Rich and gooey chocolate earthquake cake with swirls of cream cheese, chocolate chips, and a fudgy center.

Gooey Chocolate Earthquake Cake Recipe – Decadent Chocolate Dessert Idea

This gooey chocolate earthquake cake is a chocolate lover’s dream! With a fudgy center, swirls of cream cheese, and melty chocolate chips, it’s the perfect indulgent dessert for parties, holidays, or whenever you crave something rich and decadent.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Celebration Cake, Comfort Food, Dessert
Cuisine American classic, Southern-Inspired
Servings 15 slices
Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

  • 9×13-inch baking pan
  • Mixing bowls
  • Electric mixer
  • Spatula
  • Parchment paper or non-stick spray

Ingredients
  

  • 1 box chocolate cake mix (or homemade batter)
  • 1 cup shredded coconut
  • 1 cup chopped pecans
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup butter, softened
  • 3 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 cup chocolate chips (optional topping)

Instructions
 

  • Prepare Pan: Grease or line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
  • Layer Base: Spread coconut and pecans evenly across the bottom of the pan.
  • Make Cake Batter: Prepare chocolate cake batter according to package or recipe instructions. Pour over coconut and pecans.
  • Cream Cheese Mixture: Beat softened cream cheese, butter, and powdered sugar until smooth. Drop spoonfuls over cake batter.
  • Bake: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35–40 minutes until the top is cracked and the center is gooey.
  • Cool & Serve: Cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm for maximum indulgence.

Notes

  • Don’t overbake—the gooey center is the goal.
  •  Use softened cream cheese for smooth texture.
  •  Add chocolate chips or powdered sugar for extra flair.
  •  Always let cake rest 10–15 minutes before slicing for clean edges.
  •  Freeze slices individually for easy future indulgence.
Keyword cream cheese swirl cake, earthquake cake, Gooey chocolate cake,, indulgent desserts, potluck cake