Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I pulled the Strawberry Earthquake Cake from the oven, a warm wave of sweet, fruity aroma filled my kitchen—truly magical! This delightful dessert features the tasty combination of vibrant strawberries and creamy swirls of rich cream cheese. What makes my Easy Strawberry Earthquake Cake a go-to treat is not only its stunning marbled appearance but also its simplicity; it’s so easy to make that even novice bakers can impress family and friends. Plus, it’s a versatile crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in. Imagine whipping this up as a make-ahead option for brunch or a potluck—your fellow food lovers will surely ask for the recipe! Are you ready to create a dessert that’s sure to steal the show? Why is Strawberry Earthquake Cake so delightful? Irresistible flavor: The combination of fresh strawberries and rich cream cheese creates an explosion of taste that’s hard to resist. Easy to make: With just a few simple steps, even beginner bakers can master this delightful dessert. Versatile options: Swap in your favorite berries or try a chocolaty twist for a personalized touch! Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or brunches—everyone will be clamoring for seconds. Make-ahead convenience: Prepare the batter in advance and bake whenever you’re ready, ensuring a stress-free baking experience. Soft, fluffy texture: Each slice boasts a moist crumb that melts in your mouth, making it an unforgettable treat. If you’re looking for more sweet inspiration, consider checking out my Strawberry Swirl Cheesecake or the delightful Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon for your next dessert adventure! Strawberry Earthquake Cake Ingredients Here’s everything you need to create this delightful dessert. For the Cake • Strawberry Cake Mix – Provides the cake structure and flavor; feel free to use a homemade version if you’re up for it. • Eggs – Adds moisture and binds the cake together; large eggs give the best results. • Oil – Enhances moisture; substitute melted butter for a richer taste. • Water – Needed to hydrate the cake mix and contribute to a tender crumb. • Fresh Strawberries – Adds a burst of natural sweetness and juicy texture; if using frozen, ensure they’re thawed and drained. • White Chocolate Chips – Introduces a creamy sweetness; can swap for milk or dark chocolate chips if preferred. • Sweetened Shredded Coconut – Provides extra sweetness and a delightful texture; omit if you’d like to keep it simple. • Chopped Nuts (Pecans or Walnuts) – Adds crunch; use any favorite nuts or leave them out if allergies are a concern. For the Cream Cheese Swirl • Cream Cheese – Creates that rich swirl; ensure it’s at room temperature for an ultra-smooth mix. • Unsalted Butter – Helps form a smooth topping; should also be room temperature. • Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the cream cheese mixture; feel free to adjust sweetness to your liking. • Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor; it’s optional but highly recommended for a deeper taste. Now you’re all set to bake a beautiful Strawberry Earthquake Cake that will dazzle your senses and impress your loved ones! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Strawberry Earthquake Cake Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Meanwhile, grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray or softened butter, ensuring an even coating to prevent sticking. This step sets the stage for your Strawberry Earthquake Cake, allowing it to rise beautifully and bake evenly. Step 2: Prepare the Batter In a large mixing bowl, combine the strawberry cake mix, eggs, oil, and water. Using an electric mixer, beat the mixture on medium speed for 2 minutes until smooth and well combined. Watch for a homogeneous batter that’s creamy and free of lumps—this will be the foundation of your cake. Step 3: Fold in the Goodies Gently fold in chopped fresh strawberries, white chocolate chips, shredded coconut, and nuts if using. Use a spatula to carefully incorporate these ingredients without over-mixing, preserving some of the batter’s fluffiness. This delightful blend adds texture and flavor to your Strawberry Earthquake Cake, making it truly special. Step 4: Layer the Batter Pour half of the strawberry cake batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. This initial layer ensures that the cream cheese swirl you’ll add later is perfectly nestled in the cake. Take a moment to admire the vibrant pink hue of the batter—it’s a promising start! Step 5: Make the Cream Cheese Mixture In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter with an electric mixer until creamy, about 2-3 minutes. Gradually blend in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth and lump-free. This luscious swirl will provide a rich contrast to the cake, enhancing your Strawberry Earthquake Cake’s flavor. Step 6: Create the Swirls Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the batter in the pan. Using a knife or skewer, gently swirl the cream cheese into the batter, being careful not to mix it in completely. This step creates those beautiful cream cheese swirls, a signature feature of your Strawberry Earthquake Cake. Step 7: Add the Remaining Batter Spoon the remaining strawberry cake batter over the cream cheese swirls, smoothing the top with a spatula. This layer encapsulates the delicious cream cheese mixture and ensures a lovely marbled effect when baked. Take a moment to appreciate the colorful layers before baking! Step 8: Bake the Cake Place the cake pan in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes. Keep an eye on it; the cake is done when it’s set and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The aroma of strawberries and sweetness will fill your kitchen, signaling a delicious treat is on its way. Step 9: Cool and Slice Once baked, remove the Strawberry Earthquake Cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes. This cooling period is crucial; it helps the cake firm up, making it easier to slice. Once cooled, slice into squares, revealing the delightful swirls and chunks of strawberries. Strawberry Earthquake Cake Variations Feel free to get creative with your Strawberry Earthquake Cake—customizing it to match your tastes will make it even more delightful! Berry Swap: Replace strawberries with blueberries or raspberries for a fresh twist that bursts with flavor. Vegan Option: Use vegan cream cheese and substitute eggs with applesauce for a delicious dairy-free cake that everyone can enjoy. Chocolate Swirl: Add a rope of chocolate syrup through the batter for a decadent chocolate experience that pairs beautifully with strawberries. Peachy Keen: Incorporate chopped peaches or pineapple for a tropical flair that brightens each bite. Cinnamon Spice: Mix a teaspoon of cinnamon into the batter for a warm, aromatic kick that enhances the fruity flavors. Nutty Crunch: Exchange chopped nuts with toasted almonds or hazelnuts to add an extra layer of crunch and flavor. Tropical Coconut: Use coconut cream instead of regular cream cheese for a deliciously tropical cheesecake twist. Zesty Lemon: Add lemon zest to the batter for a citrusy freshness that balances the sweetness beautifully. With all these delicious variations, your Strawberry Earthquake Cake will never be boring! For more strawberry goodness, don’t forget to check out my Strawberry Shortcake Roll or enjoy the tangy treat of Fried Strawberry Cheesecake for your next dessert adventure! What to Serve with Easy Strawberry Earthquake Cake Create a delightful dining experience by complementing this enchanting dessert with various mouthwatering sides and drinks. Fresh Whipped Cream: A dollop of this airy topping enhances the cake’s sweetness while adding a luxurious, creamy finish. It’s like a rich cloud of flavor in every bite! Vanilla Ice Cream: The classic pairing of warm cake and cold ice cream elevates the taste, creating a delightful contrast in temperature and texture. It’s a comforting combination that’s hard to resist. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits provides a bright, tart balance to the overall sweetness of the cake, making for a colorful and vibrant presentation. Iced Tea or Lemonade: Quench your thirst with these sweet, chilled beverages that enhance the fruitiness of the cake and keep things light and refreshing. A perfect sipping companion for warm gatherings! Chocolate Sauce Drizzle: Add a swirl of rich chocolate sauce on top of each serving for an indulgent twist that complements both the strawberry and cream cheese flavors delightfully. Coconut Macaroons: These chewy, sweet confections echo the coconut in the cake, creating a thematic, cohesive dessert spread that guests will adore. The added textures make them fun to enjoy alongside the cake. Sparkling Wine: For a festive occasion, serve a glass of bubbly to elevate the dessert experience, providing a celebratory touch that pairs beautifully with the cake’s fruity flavors. Coffee or Espresso: A warm cup of coffee or a shot of espresso adds a sophisticated element, enhancing the cake’s flavors while creating a comforting, cozy atmosphere. It’s a classic way to finish off a sweet treat! Make Ahead Options These Easy Strawberry Earthquake Cake are perfect for busy home cooks who love to meal prep! You can prepare the batter in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours—this not only saves time but also enhances the flavors as they meld together. Additionally, you can whip up the cream cheese mixture and store it in an airtight container for 3 days, ensuring it’s ready when you are. To maintain the cake’s quality, be sure to let it cool completely after baking before slicing. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake the prepped batter as directed and enjoy a freshly baked dessert that’s just as delightful, with minimal effort needed! Helpful Tricks for Strawberry Earthquake Cake Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your cream cheese and butter are at room temperature; this creates a smoother mixture for beautiful swirls in your Strawberry Earthquake Cake. Gentle Mixing: Avoid over-mixing your batter after adding the strawberries and chocolate chips to prevent a dense cake—gentle folds will keep the texture light and fluffy. Cooling Time: Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing. This essential step helps achieve the perfect texture and prevents the cake from crumbling. Smooth Cream Cheese Mixture: If your cream cheese mixture is lumpy, continue to beat until it’s completely smooth. This will enhance the luxurious swirl in your cake, making every bite irresistible. Storage Tips: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container, refrigerated for up to 5 days. Proper storage will maintain the delicious quality of your Strawberry Earthquake Cake. How to Store and Freeze Strawberry Earthquake Cake Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days. This keeps the cake moist and fresh as you savor each slice! Freezer: For longer storage, freeze slices of Strawberry Earthquake Cake in a zip-top bag for up to 2 months. Wrap each slice individually for extra protection against freezer burn. Thawing: When ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight for optimal texture and flavor before serving. Reheating: If desired, warm individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to bring back the fluffy goodness of this delightful cake! Strawberry Earthquake Cake Recipe FAQs How do I select ripe strawberries for my Strawberry Earthquake Cake? Absolutely! When choosing strawberries, look for ones that are bright red, firm, and free from dark spots or bruises. The natural sweetness of ripe strawberries is essential for the best flavor. If you can, smell the strawberries—ripe ones will have a sweet aroma. How should I store the Strawberry Earthquake Cake? To keep your Strawberry Earthquake Cake fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This method ensures the cake maintains its moist texture and flavor. If you have a large batch, you can freeze slices for up to 2 months; just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in a zip-top bag. Can I freeze my Strawberry Earthquake Cake? How do I do it? Yes, you can freeze the Strawberry Earthquake Cake! For optimal results, individually wrap slices in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This not only protects them from freezer burn but also makes it easy to pull out a slice whenever a sweet craving hits. When you want to enjoy a slice, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator for the best texture. What should I do if my cake sinks in the middle? Very! If your cake sinks, it may be due to overmixing the batter or not allowing enough baking time. To avoid this, mix gently after adding strawberries and chocolate chips, ensuring not to deflate the batter. If your cake does sink, try slicing and pairing it with whipped cream or fruit for a delicious trifle-style dessert! Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind? Absolutely! When making this Strawberry Earthquake Cake, consider any allergies to nuts, dairy, or gluten among your guests. For a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free cake mix and ensure that any additional ingredients, like chocolate or nuts, are also certified gluten-free. You can replace regular cream cheese with a vegan alternative to cater to dairy-free diets. Can I make this recipe vegan? Yes, it’s possible to create a vegan version! Substitute the regular eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg), use a vegan cake mix, and opt for vegan cream cheese for the swirl. This way, you can enjoy the delicious taste of the Strawberry Earthquake Cake while making it suitable for a vegan diet! Irresistible Strawberry Earthquake Cake You'll Love This irresistible Strawberry Earthquake Cake combines sweet strawberries and creamy cream cheese for a delicious treat everyone will love. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 45 minutes minsCooling Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 30 minutes mins Servings: 12 slicesCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Cake1 box Strawberry Cake Mix Feel free to use a homemade version if you're up for it.3 large Eggs Adds moisture and binds the cake together.1/2 cup Oil Substitute melted butter for a richer taste.1 cup Water Needed to hydrate the cake mix.1 cup Fresh Strawberries Ensure they’re chopped; if using frozen, thaw and drain.1/2 cup White Chocolate Chips Can swap for milk or dark chocolate chips.1/2 cup Sweetened Shredded Coconut Omit if you'd like to keep it simple.1/2 cup Chopped Nuts (Pecans or Walnuts) Use any favorite nuts or leave them out if allergies are a concern.For the Cream Cheese Swirl8 oz Cream Cheese Ensure it’s at room temperature.1/4 cup Unsalted Butter Should also be room temperature.1 cup Powdered Sugar Feel free to adjust sweetness to your liking.1 tsp Vanilla Extract Optional but recommended for a deeper taste. Equipment Mixing bowlElectric mixerBaking PanSpatulaKnife or Skewer Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking pan.In a large mixing bowl, combine the strawberry cake mix, eggs, oil, and water.Gently fold in chopped strawberries, white chocolate chips, shredded coconut, and nuts if using.Pour half of the strawberry cake batter into the prepared baking pan.In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter until creamy.Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the batter in the pan and swirl gently.Spoon the remaining strawberry cake batter over the cream cheese swirls.Place the cake pan in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes.Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for at least 30 minutes. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 4gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 55mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 120mgFiber: 1gSugar: 30gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 4mgIron: 2mg NotesEnsure your cream cheese and butter are at room temperature for a smooth mixture. Avoid over-mixing the batter to keep the texture light and fluffy. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
