German Chocolate Upside-Down Cake(Earthquake Cake)
A rich, indulgent upside-down cake featuring coconut, pecans, and German chocolate flavors, layered with creamy topping—perfect for dessert lovers and special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix coconut and pecans; place in greased 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Prepare cake mix as directed on the box and pour over pecans and coconut in the pan.
- Heat and stir margarine and cream cheese until warm and creamy.
- Add powdered sugar; mix well.
- Spoon the cream cheese mixture on top of the cake batter.
- Bake at 350°F for 35 to 40 minutes.
- Flip each serving over as you serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, you can substitute low-fat cream cheese and margarine. If you prefer a different nut, walnuts work well too. Ensure you mix the coconut and pecans evenly to avoid clumping. Consider adding a splash of vanilla extract for extra flavor. This cake is quite rich, so pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream can balance the sweetness beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this cake warm or at room temperature, and flip each piece over to showcase the coconut and pecan topping. It pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a delightful coffee break, enjoy it alongside a cup of your favorite brew. Perfect for gatherings, it also works well as a dessert for holiday meals.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, place individual servings in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes for a fresh-out-of-the-oven experience.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of German Chocolate Upside-Down Cake(Earthquake Cake) contains roughly 468 calories, with 3g protein, 38g carbohydrates, and 35g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (19% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 5g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of chocolate cake mix?
Yes, you can use a different chocolate cake mix, but the flavor profile will change slightly. The German chocolate mix adds a unique richness. If you want to experiment, a devil's food cake mix could provide a similar chocolatey experience.
How do I know when the cake is done baking?
To check if the cake is done, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Keep an eye on the edges as well; they should be slightly pulling away from the pan. Baking time may vary based on your oven.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, this cake can be frozen! Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It will keep for up to 3 months in the freezer. To enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as desired.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).