Strawberry Earthquake Cake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Strawberry Earthquake Cake is a crowd-pleaser that combines the best of a classic cake with a unique, irresistible twist. The strawberry cake mix creates a soft, moist base while the cream cheese swirl adds a tangy richness. The added strawberries, white chocolate, and coconut give it bursts of flavor and texture, making each bite a fun and delicious surprise. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just craving a sweet treat, this cake is sure to impress!

Ingredients

Cake Base:
• 1 box strawberry cake mix
• Ingredients listed on the box (usually eggs, oil, water)

Add-ins:
• 1½ cups fresh or frozen strawberries, chopped
• 1 cup white chocolate chips or chunks
• 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
• ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

Cream Cheese Swirl:
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2½ cups powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. Prepare the strawberry cake mix according to the box instructions, then pour the batter into the prepared baking dish.

3. Evenly sprinkle the chopped strawberries, white chocolate chips, shredded coconut, and optional nuts over the cake batter.

4. In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.

5. Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the top of the cake batter. Use a knife to gently swirl the cream cheese into the batter.

6. Bake for 45–50 minutes or until the cake is golden brown on top and set. The center should remain slightly gooey—this is the “earthquake” magic in action!

7. Allow the cake to cool before serving. Enjoy the deliciously decadent flavors!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12-16

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 45-50 minutes

• Total Time: 1 hour

Variations

• Chocolate Lovers: Swap the white chocolate chips for dark or milk chocolate chips for a richer flavor.

• Coconut-Free: Omit the shredded coconut if you’re not a fan of coconut flavor or texture.

• Berry Blast: Add more berries, such as blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries, for an extra burst of flavor.

• Nut-Free: Skip the nuts for a nut-free version of this cake.

• Vegan Option: Use a vegan strawberry cake mix, dairy-free butter, and a non-dairy cream cheese alternative to make it vegan-friendly.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like to extend its shelf life, refrigerate it for up to 1 week.

• Reheating: For the best experience, reheat individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, or until warm. This will bring out the gooey texture of the cream cheese swirl.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen strawberries in this recipe?

Yes, you can! Frozen strawberries work just as well as fresh strawberries in this recipe. Be sure to chop them and thaw them slightly before adding them to the batter.

2. Can I make this cake without the cream cheese swirl?

While the cream cheese swirl is what makes this cake unique, you could substitute it with a simple frosting if you prefer a different texture or flavor.

3. Can I use a different type of cake mix?

You can use a different flavored cake mix, such as vanilla or chocolate, but the strawberry cake mix adds a special flavor that complements the other ingredients perfectly.

4. What is the best way to store the cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate it for up to a week.

5. Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, you can freeze the cake! Just make sure it’s fully cooled before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It will keep for up to 2-3 months in the freezer.

6. Why does the cake have a gooey center?

The gooey center is part of the charm of this cake! It’s the result of the cream cheese mixture swirled into the batter, creating a decadent, slightly underbaked middle.

7. Can I skip the coconut in this recipe?

Yes, if you’re not fond of coconut, feel free to leave it out. The cake will still be delicious!

8. Can I use margarine instead of butter for the cream cheese swirl?

Yes, margarine can be substituted for butter, though the flavor may differ slightly.

9. Is this cake gluten-free?

This particular recipe uses a regular strawberry cake mix, which contains gluten. To make it gluten-free, use a gluten-free cake mix and ensure that all other ingredients are gluten-free.

10. Can I add more berries to this recipe?

Absolutely! You can increase the amount of berries or add different types for more variety. Just be sure not to overwhelm the cake with too much moisture, as this could affect its texture.

Conclusion

The Strawberry Earthquake Cake is a perfect dessert for those who love bold, vibrant flavors and textures. With a moist strawberry cake base, a rich cream cheese swirl, and the addition of white chocolate, coconut, and strawberries, it’s a treat that will satisfy any sweet tooth. Whether you’re preparing for a family gathering or simply enjoying a quiet moment with dessert, this cake is sure to delight!