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You know that feeling when you stumble upon a recipe that feels like a warm hug? That’s exactly what happened to me the first time I made Gooey Chocolate Earthquake Cake. I can still remember the rich, chocolatey aroma wafting through my cozy kitchen as I mixed the ingredients, and the tantalizing anticipation that filled the air. It was a serendipitous find in an old family cookbook, tucked between recipes that had long seen their glory days. Once I bit into that first slice, I was utterly hooked! The combination of a fudgy chocolate cake, a creamy, sweet cream cheese layer, and delightful cherry pie filling made for an irresistible treat.
More than just a dessert, it’s a conversation starter, a cheering-up mechanism, and an instant party pleaser. Whether I’m serving it at family gatherings or enjoying a quiet slice with my morning coffee, Gooey Chocolate Earthquake Cake has become a beloved staple in my kitchen — and I just know it will become one in yours too!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Super Easy: With just a few convenient ingredients, this cake comes together in no time!
- Quick Baking: Ready to eat in under an hour – ideal for unexpected guests or last-minute dessert cravings.
- Decadent Indulgence: The rich, chocolatey flavor paired with creamy swirls and cherry goodness is impossible to resist.
- Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for parties, potlucks, or just a cozy night in; it’s a hit with both kids and adults!
- Customizable: You can swap out or add ingredients to suit your taste, making it uniquely yours.
Ingredients
- 1 box chocolate cake mix: Makes this cake stress-free and ensures a moist, delicious base.
- 1 cup water: Helps to bring the mix together, adding the perfect moisture.
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil: Adds richness and contributes to the gooey texture.
- 3 large eggs: A crucial element for binding everything beautifully together.
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened: Gives the cake that dreamy, creamy swirl we all love.
- 1 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese layer, making it irresistibly luscious.
- 1/2 cup cherry pie filling: Adds a delightful burst of fruitiness with every bite.
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips: Because can you ever have too much chocolate? I think not!
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors, making every mouthful magical.
- Vanilla ice cream for serving: A warm slice of cake with a scoop of ice cream is an absolute dream!
Full recipe card is below.
How to Make It
1. Preheat your oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan. Tip: This ensures a non-stick surface for easy removal after baking!
2. Mix the cake batter
In a large bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, water, vegetable oil, and eggs. Mix until well combined and pour into the prepared baking pan. Tip: Use a whisk for a smoother batter, but a spoon will work just fine too!
3. Prepare the cream cheese layer
In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract. Tip: Make sure the cream cheese is soft for easier mixing. Let it sit out for about 30 minutes before use.
4. Swirl in the cream cheese
Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the chocolate cake batter and swirl gently with a knife. Tip: Don’t over-swirl! You want those lovely marbled layers to shine through.
5. Add cherry filling and chocolate chips
Add dollops of cherry pie filling and sprinkle chocolate chips on top. Tip: You can reserve some chocolate chips for topping after baking if you want that extra chocolatey finish!
6. Bake the cake
Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean. Tip: Remember, it’s okay if it’s a bit gooey inside — that’s part of the charm!
7. Cool and serve
Allow to cool slightly before serving warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. You’ll love the contrast of warm cake meets cold ice cream!
Pro Tips for Success
- For an even richer flavor, substitute milk for water in the cake mix.
- Keep an eye on the time; every oven is different, and you want that perfect gooey consistency!
- Let the cake cool in the pan briefly before slicing; this makes it easier to cut!
Flavor Variations
- Berry Delight: Substitute cherry pie filling with raspberry or blueberry for a fun twist!
- Nutty Crunch: Toss in some chopped nuts or toffee bits for an extra layer of texture.
- Seasonal Spice: A dash of cinnamon or nutmeg can give your cake a cozy autumn twist.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your cake with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a nice cup of herbal tea. Don’t forget to top it with a generous scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream (or whipped cream for a lighter touch)! For a pretty presentation, drizzle some chocolate or caramel sauce over the top before serving — it’s all about those cozy vibes!
Make-Ahead & Storage
You can make this cake a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator, covered tightly to keep it moist. It will last about 5 days in the fridge—if it lasts that long!
Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, consider turning slices into delectable cake pops by crumbling, mixing with frosting, and rolling them into balls. They’re a hit at gatherings! Or simply enjoy them as an indulgent breakfast treat. No judgment here!
Freezing
Yes, you can freeze this cake! Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They should keep well for about 2-3 months. Just remember to label your packages so you have something to look forward to!
Reheating
For a slice of that freshly baked goodness, heat it in the microwave for about 20 seconds, or pop it into the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.
FAQs
Can I use a different flavor of cake mix?
Absolutely! Vanilla, red velvet, or even German chocolate would work wonderfully!
How do I know when the cake is done?
The toothpick test is your best friend! It should come out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs sticking to it.
Can I make this without eggs?
Yes, you can use a flax egg or applesauce as a great substitute for the eggs!
What if I don’t have cream cheese?
You can swap in Greek yogurt for a similar creamy texture — just remember to adjust the sweetness accordingly!
Final Thoughts
Thank you for joining me on this delightful journey to create Gooey Chocolate Earthquake Cake! I hope it fills your kitchen with warmth and your heart with happiness just as it has mine. There’s something truly special about a homemade treat that brings people together. So, whip up this cake, share it with loved ones, and enjoy the cozy moments that unfold. Keep vibing with your culinary creations, and don’t forget: the best recipes are the ones made with love. Happy baking! 💖
Gooey Chocolate Earthquake Cake
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, water, vegetable oil, and eggs. Mix until well combined and pour into the prepared baking pan.
- In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the chocolate cake batter and swirl gently with a knife.
- Add dollops of cherry pie filling and sprinkle chocolate chips on top.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.