If you’ve been on the hunt for a dessert that combines cozy autumn flavors with a fun, gooey twist, you’re going to fall head over heels for this Spiced Pumpkin Earthquake Cake Recipe. Imagine a rich, spiced pumpkin base layered with luscious cream cheese swirls and bursts of melted mini chocolate chips—every bite feels like a warm hug with a delightful texture that “earthquakes” your expectations of a regular pumpkin dessert. It’s easy to make, irresistibly tasty, and perfect for sharing with friends or indulging on a crisp fall evening.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Spiced Pumpkin Earthquake Cake Recipe lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients, each chosen to enhance the flavor, texture, and visual appeal without complicating the process. From the creamy pumpkin puree to the warming spices, and the rich cream cheese frosting to melty chocolate chips, everything works together in perfect harmony.
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree: Gives the cake its moist, tender crumb and that unmistakable pumpkin flavor.
- 1/2 cup almond butter or regular butter, softened: Adds richness and a subtle nuttiness that deepens the taste.
- 1/2 cup maple syrup or agave: A natural sweetener that keeps the cake moist and adds a layer of caramel-like sweetness.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Elevates the flavors by bringing warmth and a slight floral note.
- 2 tsp pumpkin pie spice: Brings all the classic fall spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves together perfectly.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Balances sweetness and enhances the overall flavor complexity.
- 1/2 tsp baking soda: Helps the cake rise just enough to stay light but gooey.
- 1/2 cup spelt flour or all-purpose flour: Creates a tender base with a mild nuttiness (spelt) or a classic crumb (all-purpose).
- 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips: For little pockets of melty chocolate that add surprise and delight.
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened: The star of the creamy swirl that gives the “earthquake” effect in texture and flavor.
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese without making it heavy.
- Optional: 2 tbsp chopped pecans or walnuts: Adds a pleasant crunch and nutty contrast if you like a bit of texture.
How to Make Spiced Pumpkin Earthquake Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8-inch baking pan. This step ensures your cake won’t stick and will come out with glorious golden edges and a soft center, ready to wow your taste buds.
Step 2: Mix the Pumpkin Batter
In a large bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, softened almond or regular butter, maple syrup, vanilla extract, pumpkin pie spice, salt, and baking soda. Blend everything until the mixture is silky smooth. This combination gives you the spiced, moist base that makes the Spiced Pumpkin Earthquake Cake Recipe so irresistible.
Step 3: Add the Flour and Chocolate
Gently stir in your choice of spelt or all-purpose flour, making sure not to overmix so the batter stays tender. Then fold in the mini chocolate chips and optional chopped nuts for texture and bursts of sweet, nutty goodness.
Step 4: Spread the Batter
Pour and spread the batter evenly into your prepared pan. This even layer is important so it bakes consistently and creates the perfect gooey-to-firm balance.
Step 5: Whip Up the Cream Cheese Swirl
In a separate bowl, beat softened cream cheese with powdered sugar until it’s smooth and creamy. This luscious mixture is what will give your cake that signature “earthquake” marbled appearance and rich tangy contrast.
Step 6: Create the Marbled Effect
Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture all over the pumpkin batter. Using a knife, gently swirl the two batters together to create that gorgeous marbled look that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.
Step 7: Bake and Cool
Bake your cake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’re looking for edges that are set but a center that remains slightly gooey—this balance is where the magic happens and why it’s called an earthquake cake. Once baked, allow it to cool before slicing so the layers set properly.
How to Serve Spiced Pumpkin Earthquake Cake Recipe
Garnishes
A dusting of cinnamon or a sprinkle of chopped toasted nuts over the top adds a rustic, inviting look while enhancing the nutty, warm flavors inside. Fresh whipped cream or a drizzle of maple syrup on the side can elevate this sweet treat to dessert-table-star status.
Side Dishes
Pair your slice with a steaming cup of chai tea, coffee, or even a cozy mug of hot apple cider. These beverages complement the autumn spices and creamy texture, making every bite even more comforting.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive touch, serve the Spiced Pumpkin Earthquake Cake Recipe in individual ramekins layered with pumpkin seeds or a sprinkle of edible gold dust for that wow factor. Alternatively, layering it with whipped cream and crushed gingersnaps in a trifle dish creates a stunning fall dessert centerpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover your cake tightly with plastic wrap or keep in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 4 days, making it perfect for quick snacks or after-dinner treats during the week.
Freezing
This cake freezes beautifully. Slice it into portions and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag or container. Frozen slices can be stored for up to 3 months without losing their wonderful flavor or texture.
Reheating
To enjoy your frozen or refrigerated Spiced Pumpkin Earthquake Cake Recipe, simply thaw slices in the fridge overnight and warm briefly in the microwave for about 20 seconds or until just heated through. This brings back that gooey, freshly baked feel in no time.
FAQs
Can I substitute almond butter with another nut butter?
Absolutely! Peanut butter, cashew butter, or even sunflower seed butter can work as a substitute. Just keep in mind that each will add its own unique flavor to the cake, enhancing it in different ways.
Is spelt flour necessary, or can I just use all-purpose flour?
All-purpose flour works perfectly fine if you don’t have spelt flour on hand. Spelt gives a nuttier flavor and slightly different texture, but either will yield a delicious cake.
Can I make this cake vegan?
Yes! Use dairy-free cream cheese and a plant-based butter alternative. Also, make sure to choose vegan chocolate chips. The rest of the ingredients are naturally plant-based.
Why does the center remain gooey after baking?
The gooey center is intentional and key to the “earthquake” texture. It balances the firmer edges with a moist, luscious middle, giving each bite a melt-in-your-mouth contrast.
Can I add other spices to the pumpkin pie spice?
Feel free to get creative! Adding a pinch of ground ginger, cardamom, or even a little cayenne for spice can add a personal twist, but the original pumpkin pie spice mix is perfectly balanced for this recipe.
Final Thoughts
Nothing brings the comfort of fall to your kitchen quite like this Spiced Pumpkin Earthquake Cake Recipe. It’s that glorious mix of cozy spices, creamy swirls, and gooey chocolate that makes every slice feel like a special celebration. Whether you’re baking for friends, family, or just yourself, this cake promises warmth and smiles. I encourage you to dive in and make this your go-to autumn dessert; I’m sure it’ll become a beloved favorite in your recipe collection!
Print
Spiced Pumpkin Earthquake Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 9 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Spiced Pumpkin Earthquake Cake is a moist, flavorful dessert perfect for fall. It features a spiced pumpkin batter swirled with creamy, sweetened cream cheese frosting, creating a marbled cake with a gooey center. Ideal for cozy gatherings, this cake combines autumnal pumpkin pie spices with rich chocolate chips and optional nuts for added texture.
Ingredients
For the Pumpkin Cake
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup almond butter or regular butter, softened
- 1/2 cup maple syrup or agave
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 cup spelt flour or all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips
- Optional: 2 tbsp chopped pecans or walnuts
For the Cream Cheese Swirl
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8-inch baking pan thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, softened almond butter or butter, maple syrup or agave, vanilla extract, pumpkin pie spice, salt, and baking soda. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Add Flour and Mix-ins: Gradually stir in the spelt or all-purpose flour until just combined. Carefully fold in the mini chocolate chips and optional chopped pecans or walnuts to distribute them evenly without overmixing.
- Spread Batter: Transfer the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly with a spatula to create a smooth surface.
- Prepare Cream Cheese Swirl: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar until smooth and creamy, ensuring no lumps remain.
- Swirl the Mixture: Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture across the surface of the pumpkin batter. Using a knife, lightly swirl it to form a marbled effect without blending fully.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center remains slightly gooey, indicating a soft texture.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before slicing. Serve warm or chilled according to preference for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- You can substitute almond butter with regular unsalted butter for a more traditional flavor.
- Using spelt flour offers a slightly nuttier flavor and more nutrients than all-purpose flour.
- For a nut-free version, omit the chopped pecans or walnuts.
- The cake is best served the same day but can be refrigerated and enjoyed chilled the next day.
- Mini chocolate chips add bursts of sweetness but can be omitted or replaced with raisins or dried cranberries.
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to ensure a smooth swirl mixture.
