Step 1

Preheat oven to 350° F. Grease a deep 9 x 13-inch baking dish (preferably at least 2 inches deep or more). If you’re not sure that your pan is deep enough, you can place the dish on top of a rimmed baking sheet to catch any accidental overflow from a shallow dish.

Step 2

Spread coconut and pecans in the bottom of the prepared dish.

Step 3

Prepare the cake mix according to package instructions. Pour the cake batter over the coconut and pecans.

Step 4

In a separate bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together butter, cream cheese and vanilla extract. Gradually add the confectioner’s sugar and mix until incorporated.

Step 5

Dollop the cream cheese mixture on top of the cake batter. Use a knife to swirl the cream cheese mixture around. Sprinkle the chocolate chips on top.

Step 6

Bake for about 40-45 minutes, or until set. A toothpick inserted in the center of the cake will not come out clean, since the inside will still be a little bit gooey. Cool, slice into squares, and serve!