Pumpkin Earthquake Cake

If you’re searching for a decadent, crowd-pleasing fall dessert that combines pumpkin spice, creamy cheesecake, rich chocolate, and buttery coconut – look no further. The pumpkin earthquake cake is a game-changing treat that lives up to its name. As it bakes, this gooey cake “erupts” into a delicious mess of swirling flavors and textures, creating a stunning marbled effect with minimal effort.

What Is a Pumpkin Earthquake Cake?

An earthquake cake typically features rich batter topped with cream cheese mixture that “breaks through” as it bakes—looking as if an earthquake shook it. The pumpkin version is a fall-inspired twist that swaps traditional flavors for canned pumpkin and pumpkin spice to deliver a moist, melt-in-your-mouth dessert packed with autumn flavor.

Why Is It Called an Earthquake Cake?

The name comes from its unique baking style—the creamy filling and mix-ins rise, fall, and crack through the surface, giving it the appearance of an edible fault line. The end result? A messy, beautiful, and incredibly flavorful masterpiece.

Key Ingredients That Make This Cake Irresistible

Each component of this recipe brings something special. Here’s a breakdown of the standout ingredients and their roles:

Pumpkin puree: Adds moisture and rich fall flavor without overpowering the cake.
Cream cheese: Provides tangy sweetness and that signature swirl.
Boxed spice cake mix: A time-saving base loaded with warming spices.
Shredded coconut: Adds chewiness and sweetness for textural contrast.
Chopped pecans: Provide crunch and earthy nuttiness.
Chocolate chips: Melts into gooey pockets throughout the cake.
Butter and powdered sugar: Combine with cream cheese for an ooey, gooey topping.

Step-by-Step Recipe: How to Make Pumpkin Earthquake Cake

Ingredients

For the cake base:

1 box spice cake mix (15.25 oz)
1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
1/2 cup vegetable oil
3 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 cup water

Mix-ins:

1/2 cup shredded sweetened coconut
1/2 cup chopped pecans
3/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Cream cheese layer:

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
2 cups powdered sugar

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the spice cake mix, pumpkin puree, oil, eggs, vanilla, and water. Beat until smooth.
Fold in coconut, pecans, and chocolate chips.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly.
In another bowl, beat the cream cheese, melted butter, powdered sugar, and pumpkin pie spice until creamy. Drop spoonfuls of this mixture over the cake batter.
Use a butter knife to swirl the two layers together gently. Don’t overmix—swirls are what make this cake shine.
Bake for 40–45 minutes or until the edges are set and the center looks slightly jiggly but not raw.
Let cool and serve warm or at room temperature. No frosting needed!

Tips for the Best Pumpkin Earthquake Cake

Use full-fat cream cheese: Ensures the creamy layer is rich and luscious.
Don’t over-swirl: You want visible layers and patches of filling.
Add white chocolate: For extra sweetness, substitute or mix white chocolate chips with dark.
Try other nuts: Walnuts or almonds can be used in place of pecans.

Why You’ll Love This Cake

This pumpkin earthquake cake is perfect for holidays, potlucks, or just cozy fall nights. It checks off all the boxes:

Easy to make: Minimal prep, no frosting, one pan.
Show-stopping appearance: Naturally marbled and gorgeous.
Iridescent flavor layers: Pumpkin spice, creamy cheesecake, crunchy pecans, chocolate bursts.

Variations to Try

1. Make It Gluten-Free

Use a certified gluten-free cake mix and verify all mix-ins (like coconut and chocolate) are GF-friendly.

2. Vegan-Friendly

Use a plant-based cake mix, vegan cream cheese, egg substitutes (like flax eggs), and dairy-free butter and chocolate chips.

Serving Ideas & Pairings

Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. A warm spiced chai tea or freshly brewed coffee makes the ultimate pairing for this fall-flavored delight.

Internal Linking Suggestions

Link to your Best Pumpkin Recipes roundup.
Link to an Easy Thanksgiving Desserts collection.

External Linking Suggestions

For more tips on baking with pumpkin, check Libby’s Pumpkin Recipes.
To understand the food science behind marbled cakes, visit King Arthur Baking.

FAQ

Can I make pumpkin earthquake cake ahead of time?

Yes! This cake keeps well for up to 3 days refrigerated in an airtight container. Warm it slightly before serving for best texture.

Is this cake supposed to be gooey in the middle?

Yes. The center should be slightly gooey due to the cream cheese layer. It will continue to set as it cools.

Can I omit coconut or nuts?

Of course. The recipe is very flexible. Simply remove or replace the mix-ins to suit dietary preferences or allergies.

Can I freeze pumpkin earthquake cake?

Yes. Wrap slices individually and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat if desired.

Conclusion: A Must-Try Recipe for Fall

This pumpkin earthquake cake is everything you love about fall in one unforgettable bite – rich, spiced, moist, and wonderfully messy. Whether you’re baking for Thanksgiving, a cozy family dinner, or just for yourself, this one-pan wonder is sure to become a staple on your seasonal menu.

Ready to shake up your dessert game? Try this recipe and share it with fellow pumpkin lovers! Don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter for more crave-worthy seasonal treats.