Quake Cake
A rich layered dessert featuring a nut and coconut base, topped with a creamy cheese layer, perfect for gatherings and indulgent occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Put chopped nuts and flaked coconut in the bottom of a greased 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Mix the German cake mix as directed on the package.
- Pour the prepared cake batter over the nuts and coconut in the pan.
- Mix cream cheese, melted margarine, and powdered sugar until smooth.
- Pour or spoon the cream cheese mixture over the cake batter.
- Bake for 30 to 35 minutes until done.
Tips & Substitutions
For a nut-free version, try using sunflower seeds or omit the nuts entirely. You can substitute the German cake mix with vanilla or chocolate cake mix if needed. Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature for easier mixing. Consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture for extra flavor. This dessert is reminiscent of American recipes that celebrate rich textures and flavors.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Quake Cake warm or at room temperature. It pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence. For a delightful contrast, consider serving it alongside a fresh fruit salad or Green Beans Deluxe to balance the richness of the cake.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, warm individual pieces in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or until just warm. Avoid reheating the entire cake to maintain its texture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Quake Cake contains roughly 656 calories, with 4g protein, 51g carbohydrates, and 51g fat.
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 cake mix?
Yes, you can easily substitute the German cake mix with a vanilla or chocolate cake mix, depending on your preference. This will slightly alter the flavor, but it will still be delicious! Just ensure the mix is of similar weight for best results.
What can I do if I don't have margarine?
If you don't have margarine, you can use unsalted butter instead, which will provide a richer flavor. Just melt it the same way you would the margarine. Alternatively, coconut oil can also work as a dairy-free option.
How do I know when the cake is done baking?
The cake is done when it is golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Baking times may vary based on your oven, so start checking around the 30-minute mark.
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).