Ingredients
Cake Layer
- 1 box (15.25 oz) strawberry cake mix
- 1 cup water
- ⅓ cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
Cream Cheese Layer
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Optional Toppings
- ½ cup white chocolate chips
- ½ cup shredded coconut
- Fresh strawberries for garnish
Instructions
1. Prepare the Cake Batter
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, water, oil, and eggs.
- Beat until smooth.
- Fold in the sliced strawberries.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish.
2. Make the Cream Cheese Mixture
- In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth.
- Mix in the melted butter and vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar and beat until creamy.
3. Assemble
- Spoon the cream cheese mixture over the cake batter in several dollops.
- Lightly swirl with a knife, leaving visible ribbons throughout the cake.
- Sprinkle with white chocolate chips and shredded coconut if using.
4. Bake
- Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is lightly golden.
- Allow the cake to cool before slicing.
5. Serve
- Garnish with fresh strawberries if desired.
- Serve slightly warm or chilled.
Tips
- Do not over-swirl the cream cheese mixture; distinct pockets create the classic earthquake cake texture.
- Fresh strawberries provide the best flavor, but frozen strawberries can be used if well drained.
- Refrigerate leftovers because of the cream cheese layer.
- Serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra-special dessert.
Prep Time
15 minutes
Bake Time
45 minutes
Total Time
1 hour
Servings
12 servings
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 380–480 kcal
- Protein: 4–6 g
- Fat: 16–22 g
- Carbohydrates: 55–65 g
- Fiber: 1–2 g
- Sugar: 40–50 g
Conclusion
Strawberry Earthquake Cake combines moist strawberry cake, rich cream cheese swirls, and bursts of fresh fruit into a dessert that’s both beautiful and delicious. It’s perfect for parties, potlucks, or whenever you’re craving a sweet strawberry treat.