Description
Apple Earthquake Cake is a moist and flavorful dessert featuring a spiced yellow cake batter loaded with chunks of fresh apples and a crunchy walnut base. A luscious swirl of creamy vanilla cream cheese topping adds richness and a delightful texture contrast. This easy-to-make cake combines warm cinnamon and cloves with sweet apples for a comforting treat perfect for gatherings or afternoon tea.
Ingredients
Walnut Base
- 1 cup walnuts, roughly chopped
Cake Batter
- 1 (15.25 oz) box yellow cake mix
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup vegetable or canola oil
- 3 eggs
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 1/2 cups peeled and diced apple
Cream Cheese Swirl
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups powdered sugar
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Add Walnut Base: Evenly sprinkle the chopped walnuts across the bottom of the prepared baking dish, creating a crunchy foundation for the cake.
- Mix Cake Batter: In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, water, vegetable or canola oil, eggs, ground cinnamon, and ground cloves. Stir until the batter is smooth and well combined.
- Fold in Apples: Gently fold the peeled and diced apples into the cake batter to distribute evenly without overmixing.
- Pour Batter: Pour the prepared cake batter over the walnuts spread in the baking dish, ensuring it covers the nuts evenly.
- Prepare Cream Cheese Mixture: In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese, softened butter, and vanilla extract together until smooth. Gradually mix in the powdered sugar until the mixture is creamy and well combined.
- Add Cream Cheese Swirl: Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the cake batter in the dish. Use a knife or skewer to lightly swirl it into the batter for a marbled effect.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool for at least 30 minutes before serving to set the layers and flavors.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese and butter are softened before mixing for a smooth swirl.
- Peel and dice apples evenly to ensure even baking and texture.
- Store leftovers covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- For added flavor, consider using tart apples like Granny Smith.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
