Name: Red Velvet Earthquake Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 1 cup shredded sweetened coconut; 1 cup chopped pecans; 1 15.25-ounce red velvet cake mix; 1 cup water; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 3 large eggs; 8 ounces full-fat cream cheese (softened); 1/2 cup salted butter (melted); 3 cups powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips (divided); 1 cup white chocolate chips (divided)

Introduction to Red Velvet Earthquake Cake

What is a Red Velvet Earthquake Cake?

A Red Velvet Earthquake Cake is a dessert that beautifully combines the rich flavors of red velvet cake with an explosion of textures. This delightful treat features a base of moist red velvet cake, filled with gooey ribbons of cream cheese, crunchy pecans, and luscious chocolate chips. The "earthquake" effect comes from the delicious cracks and crevices that form while baking, allowing the cream cheese filling to peek through. It's a semi-homemade recipe that starts with a box cake mix, making it quick and hassle-free for anyone who craves a sweet indulgence.

Why You'll Love Making It at Home

You’ll love making this cake at home for several reasons. First, it's incredibly easy, requiring only 15 minutes of prep time and one bowl for mixing. Perfect for busy weeknights or unexpected guests! Plus, the rich flavors and beautiful presentation can impress anyone. Imagine serving up a slice to friends and family, watching their eyes widen in delight as they dig into the creamy, decadent layers.

Trust me, the Red Velvet Earthquake Cake will quickly become a favorite in your dessert repertoire, and it’s perfect for celebrations or as a simple sweet treat. If you're looking for the ultimate comfort dessert that satisfies every sweet tooth, you're in for a treat! For more red velvet inspiration, check out Taste of Home for additional recipes.

Ingredients for Red Velvet Earthquake Cake

Creating a spectacular red velvet earthquake cake starts with the right ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential ingredients for the cake

1 (15.25-ounce) red velvet cake mix: This is the base for your cake, providing that iconic flavor and color.
1 cup water: Helps to combine everything smoothly.
½ cup vegetable oil: Adds moisture and richness.
3 large eggs: For that perfect structure and fluffiness.

Ingredients for the cream cheese filling

8 ounces full-fat cream cheese (softened): This adds a delightful tanginess and creaminess.
½ cup salted butter (melted): Brings richness to the filling.
3 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens the filling perfectly.
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract: Elevates the flavor profile.
¼ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness.

Optional mix-ins or toppings

1 cup shredded sweetened coconut: For a chewy texture.
1 cup chopped pecans: Adds a nutty crunch.
1 cup semisweet and white chocolate chips: Drizzle over the top for extra sweetness.

Have your ingredients ready? Let’s dive into baking this delicious masterpiece!

For more baking inspiration, check out these incredible tips from pastry chefs.

Step-by-step Preparation of Red Velvet Earthquake Cake

Making a red velvet earthquake cake might sound a bit intimidating, but I assure you, it's a delightful and straightforward process that any home baker can tackle. This cake is perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in. So, let’s get started on this delicious journey!

Gather your kitchen equipment

Before diving into the mixing and baking, you’ll want to make sure you have all your equipment at hand. Here’s what you’ll need:

A 9×13-inch rectangular baking pan
Mixing bowls (one large and one for the cream cheese mixture)
An electric mixer
Measuring cups and spoons
A spatula for scraping the bowls
A whisk or fork for mixing the cream cheese

Having everything ready will streamline the process and make it much more enjoyable.

Prepare the baking pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, grab your baking pan and spray it generously with baking spray. This will prevent our cake from sticking and ensure a flawless release once it’s baked. After spraying, sprinkle 1 cup of shredded sweetened coconut and 1 cup of chopped pecans evenly over the bottom. This lovely layer will add a wonderful flavor and texture to your red velvet earthquake cake.

Mix the cake batter

Next, it’s time to mix the batter. In a large bowl, combine the red velvet cake mix, 1 cup of water, ½ cup of vegetable oil, and 3 large eggs. Use an electric mixer on medium speed for about two minutes until everything is well blended. Pour this vibrant mixture over the coconut and pecans in the prepared pan. The vivid red of the batter will contrast beautifully with the other ingredients.

Prepare the cream cheese mixture

In a separate smaller bowl, it's time to whip up the magic cream cheese filling. Combine 8 ounces of softened full-fat cream cheese, ½ cup of melted salted butter, 3 cups of powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract, and ¼ teaspoon of salt. Mix until smooth and creamy, ensuring there are no lumps. This will be what we drop dollops of onto the cake batter, creating delightful pockets of sweetness.

Assemble the layers

Once the cream cheese mixture is ready, use a spoon to drop spoonfuls of it evenly over the top of the cake batter. Don’t worry about making it perfect—the rustic appearance is part of its charm! Finally, sprinkle ½ cup each of semisweet and white chocolate chips on top for that extra deliciousness.

Bake to perfection

Pop the pan into your preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes. You'll know it’s ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean with just a few crumbs. As your red velvet earthquake cake bakes, the delicious aroma will fill your kitchen!

Cool and serve

Once baked, take your cake out and let it cool completely in the pan. This step is essential to allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. When it's cool, slice it up and enjoy each decadent bite! This cake is not only visually stunning, but it also combines flavors and textures that your guests will adore.

Enjoy your baking adventure, and happy eating!

Variations of Red Velvet Earthquake Cake

Chocolate Swirl Version

For chocolate lovers, transforming the classic red velvet earthquake cake into a chocolate swirl variant is a delicious twist. Simply add a generous swirl of melted chocolate or chocolate ganache through the cream cheese filling before baking. This variation adds an indulgent flavor and richness that contrasts beautifully with the moist red velvet base. Garnish with extra chocolate shavings for an eye-catching finish!

Nut-Free Version

If you or your guests are nut-sensitive, it’s easy to make a nut-free red velvet earthquake cake. Just omit the pecans and opt for additional coconut or even a mix of raisins for texture. This ensures everyone can enjoy a slice without worry, while still keeping the delightful flavors and textures intact. For added crunch, consider using sunflower seeds or a sprinkle of graham cracker crumbs.

Feel free to experiment with these variations to make this cake your own!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Red Velvet Earthquake Cake

Ensuring the cake rises properly

To ensure your red velvet earthquake cake rises perfectly, make sure your baking powder is fresh. Old leavening agents can hinder the rise of your cake. Also, don't skip the creaming step—mix the cake batter for the full two minutes to incorporate enough air, which helps your cake achieve that light and fluffy texture.

How to achieve the perfect cream cheese swirl

For a beautiful cream cheese swirl, it's essential to drop the mixture in dollops across the cake batter rather than spreading it. This technique allows the cream cheese to create beautiful ripples as it bakes. For extra flair, use a toothpick to gently swirl it into the cake for a marbled effect. Remember, even a little practice can lead to deliciously stunning results!

Serving Suggestions for Red Velvet Earthquake Cake

Pairing with Ice Cream or Whipped Cream

Elevate your red velvet earthquake cake experience by serving it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. The rich cream cheese filling combined with the cake’s chocolatey hints creates a delicious contrast with the cold, creamy elements. Consider adding a drizzle of chocolate or cream cheese frosting for extra indulgence!

Ideal Occasions for Serving This Cake

This delightful cake is perfect for a variety of celebrations. Whether it’s a casual gathering with friends, a festive holiday dinner, or a special birthday bash, the red velvet earthquake cake fits right in. Its vibrant color and delectable flavors make it a showstopper, sure to impress your guests. Plus, it’s an excellent choice for potlucks or community events, where sharing delicious desserts is a must!

Ready to wow your crowd? Enjoy every bite!

Time Breakdown for Red Velvet Earthquake Cake

Preparation Time

In just 15 minutes, you can whip up this delightful red velvet earthquake cake. Gather your ingredients and get ready to layer in that creamy goodness!

Baking Time

Once prepped, the baking process takes about 40 to 45 minutes. This magical time transforms your batter into a scrumptious cake filled with rich flavors and textures.

Total Time

In under an hour, you’ll have a gorgeous red velvet earthquake cake ready to impress your friends! With a total time of 55 minutes, it's a quick and easy recipe for any occasion.

Want more baking tips? Visit King Arthur Baking for expert advice and tricks!

Nutritional Facts for Red Velvet Earthquake Cake

Calories per serving
One slice of red velvet earthquake cake packs approximately 300 calories, making it a delightful indulgence for your dessert cravings.

Sugar content
With about 20 grams of sugar per serving, this cake is sweet but can surely satisfy those with a sweet tooth. Just be mindful of your daily sugar intake!

Key nutrients
This cake not only delights the taste buds but also contributes key nutrients! It offers a good amount of calcium from the cream cheese and healthy fats from the pecans, making it a treat that has some nutritional value. For more information on dietary needs, check out Nutrition.gov.

FAQs about Red Velvet Earthquake Cake

Can I use a different cake mix?

Absolutely! While this Red Velvet Earthquake Cake is sensational with a red velvet mix, feel free to experiment with other flavors. Chocolate, vanilla, or even a funfetti mix could add a delightful twist. Just be mindful that the additions—like cream cheese filling and toppings—might complement certain flavors better than others.

How should I store leftover cake?

To keep your Red Velvet Earthquake Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to extend its shelf life, you can refrigerate it for about a week. Just remember, if you’re adding any frosting, it might alter the texture over time!

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Definitely! You can prepare the cake a day in advance and keep it covered at room temperature. If you've added cream cheese frosting, consider storing it in the fridge and bringing it to room temperature before serving for the best taste. Planning ahead means more time to enjoy with friends!

Conclusion on Red Velvet Earthquake Cake

Why this cake deserves a spot in your recipe collection

The Red Velvet Earthquake Cake is not just a dessert; it’s a delightful experience! Its rich flavors of red velvet combined with creamy layers and crunchy pecans make it a standout choice for any occasion. It’s quick to whip up and sure to impress your friends and family.

Encouragement to try it out!

So why not give this decadent cake a go? With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can create a show-stopping dessert that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Dive into the world of baking and make this Red Velvet Earthquake Cake a new favorite in your kitchen!