Pumpkin Earthquake Cake Recipe – A Delicious Fall Treat

If you’re looking for a decadent, gooey, and flavor-packed dessert, this Pumpkin Earthquake Cake recipe is the ultimate fall treat! 🎃🍰 With a moist pumpkin cake base, rich cream cheese swirls, and crunchy pecans, every bite is an explosion of flavors and textures. The best part? It’s super easy to make—no fancy techniques required! This dessert is perfect for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or cozy autumn nights at home.

Equipment Needed

✔ 9×13-inch baking pan – For baking the cake evenly
✔ Mixing bowls – To prepare the batter and filling
✔ Hand mixer or stand mixer – For a smooth cream cheese filling
✔ Spatula – For swirling the layers
✔ Measuring cups and spoons – For precise ingredient portions

Ingredients for Pumpkin Earthquake Cake

For the Pumpkin Cake:

• 1 box spice cake mix – The perfect shortcut for flavor
• 1 cup pumpkin puree 🎃 – Adds moisture and fall flavor
• ½ cup vegetable oil – Ensures a soft cake texture
• 3 large eggs – Helps bind the ingredients
• ½ cup milk – Adds creaminess
• 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice – Enhances the flavor

For the Cream Cheese Swirl:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened – Creates a rich, creamy layer
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted – Adds smoothness
• 2 cups powdered sugar – Sweetens the swirl
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the flavor

For the Mix-ins & Toppings:

• 1 cup chocolate chips 🍫 – For a melty surprise
• ½ cup pecans or walnuts, chopped – Adds crunch
• ½ cup sweetened coconut flakes – For extra texture

How to Make Pumpkin Earthquake Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

1️⃣ Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
2️⃣ In a mixing bowl, combine the spice cake mix, pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, eggs, milk, and pumpkin pie spice. Stir until smooth.
3️⃣ Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly.

Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Swirl

1️⃣ In another bowl, beat the cream cheese, melted butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
2️⃣ Drop spoonfuls of the mixture over the pumpkin cake batter.
3️⃣ Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the cream cheese into the batter, creating a marbled effect.

Step 3: Add the Mix-ins

1️⃣ Sprinkle chocolate chips, pecans, and coconut flakes evenly over the top.
2️⃣ Lightly press them into the batter so they bake into the cake.

Step 4: Bake the Cake

1️⃣ Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. The edges should be golden, but the center will still be slightly gooey.
2️⃣ Let the cake cool for about 15 minutes before serving.

Tips for the Best Pumpkin Earthquake Cake

✔ Don’t overmix the batter – Stir just until combined for a tender cake.
✔ Use full-fat cream cheese – This ensures a rich and creamy texture.
✔ Let the cake cool slightly – The gooey layers will set as it cools.
✔ Customize the mix-ins – Try white chocolate chips, toffee bits, or even raisins!

Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Earthquake Cake

🎃 Super easy to make – Uses cake mix for convenience!
🍰 Rich, gooey texture – The cream cheese swirl makes it irresistible.
🍂 Perfect for fall – Packed with warm spices and pumpkin flavor.
🥄 Great for any occasion – Perfect for Thanksgiving, Halloween, or weekend baking!

The Science Behind Its Unique Texture

This cake gets its “earthquake” effect from the way the cream cheese mixture bubbles up and cracks the surface while baking. The high moisture content of pumpkin puree and cream cheese creates a gooey, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

The Magic of Pumpkin Earthquake Cake

This dessert brings together the best fall flavors—spiced pumpkin cake, creamy cheesecake, and melty chocolate. The mix-ins add a satisfying crunch, making every bite a delicious surprise!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

How do I store leftovers?
Keep leftovers covered at room temperature for 1 day or in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Can I freeze Pumpkin Earthquake Cake?
Yes! Wrap slices tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

Conclusion

This Pumpkin Earthquake Cake is an easy, irresistible fall dessert with gooey layers of pumpkin cake, cream cheese, chocolate, and crunchy pecans. 🎃🍫 Whether for Thanksgiving, Halloween, or a cozy weekend treat, this cake is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Try it today and enjoy a bite of fall magic! 🍂✨