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Apple Earthquake Cake Recipe


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3.9 from 56 reviews

  • Author: Sky
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: Serves 12

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

  1. Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
  2. Add Walnut Base: Evenly sprinkle the chopped walnuts across the bottom of the prepared baking dish, creating a crunchy foundation for the cake.
  3. 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.
  4. Fold in Apples: Gently fold the peeled and diced apples into the cake batter to distribute evenly without overmixing.
  5. Pour Batter: Pour the prepared cake batter over the walnuts spread in the baking dish, ensuring it covers the nuts evenly.
  6. 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.
  7. 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.
  8. 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.
  9. 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