If you love strawberry desserts with a rich, gooey texture, then this Strawberry Earthquake Cake is a must-try. This decadent treat combines the sweetness of strawberries, the richness of cream cheese, and the indulgence of white chocolate chips to create a dessert that’s as visually striking as it is delicious.
Unlike traditional cakes, an earthquake cake has a signature cracked and swirled appearance, thanks to the way the cream cheese mixture bakes into the batter. The result is a soft, moist cake with pockets of creamy goodness in every bite.
If you’re a fan of festive desserts, you might also enjoy these Valentine’s Day Cake Pops, a fun alternative for any celebration.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Earthquake Cake
Super Easy to Make – Uses a box cake mix for convenience.
Loaded with Flavor – A combination of sweet strawberries, creamy swirls, and white chocolate.
Customizable – Make it gluten-free, or dairy-free, or add a crunchy twist with nuts.
For those who love rich, decadent cakes, you might also enjoy baking a Classic Red Velvet Cake, another timeless favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Cake:
- 1 box strawberry cake mix (typically 15.25 oz)
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped
For the Cream Cheese Swirl:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Extras (Optional but Delicious!)
- 1 cup white chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
For more cream cheese-based treats, these Red Velvet Cheesecake Balls are a bite-sized delight.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat & Prep
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Lightly coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray or a thin layer of butter to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Cake Batter
- In a large bowl, combine the strawberry cake mix, eggs, vegetable oil, and water.
- Beat the mixture with a hand mixer or whisk until smooth.
- Fold in the chopped strawberries to add extra flavor and texture.
3. Make the Cream Cheese Swirl
- In a separate bowl, beat together the cream cheese, melted butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
4. Assemble the Cake
- Pour the cake batter into the prepared baking dish.
- Drop small portions of the cream cheese mixture evenly across the surface of the batter.
- Use a knife to gently swirl it through the cake to create the earthquake effect.
- Sprinkle white chocolate chips, coconut, or nuts on top if using.
5. Bake to Perfection
- Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the cake is set but still gooey in some areas.
- Allow the cake to rest for at least 15 minutes before cutting, so the layers can set properly.
Expert Tips for the Best Strawberry Earthquake Cake
Don’t Overmix – Overmixing the batter can make your cake dense.
Use Room-Temperature Ingredients – This ensures a smoother, more even batter.
Swirl, Don’t Mix – Use a butter knife to create a marble effect instead of fully blending the layers.
Check for Doneness Early – The center should be slightly gooey but not raw.
Tasty Variations to Try
- Chocolate Strawberry Earthquake Cake – Use a chocolate cake mix instead of strawberry for a richer flavor.
- Nutty Crunch Version – Add pecans or almonds for extra texture.
- Coconut Lover’s Edition – Increase the shredded coconut for a tropical twist.
- Gluten-Free & Vegan Option – Use a gluten-free cake mix and dairy-free substitutes for butter and cream cheese.
How to Store & Reheat Strawberry Earthquake Cake
- Counter Storage: Keep the cake in a well-sealed container at room temperature for up to two days to maintain freshness.
- Refrigerator: Keeps well for up to five days in an airtight container.
- Freezer: Wrap individual slices and freeze for up to three months.
- Reheating: Warm up a slice in the microwave for 10–15 seconds to bring back its soft and gooey texture.
Frequently Asked Questions About Strawberry Earthquake Cake
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh ones?
Yes! Thaw and drain them first to prevent excess moisture from making the cake soggy.
What’s the best way to swirl the cream cheese mixture?
Use a butter knife and gently swirl in an “S” or figure-eight pattern.
Can I make this Strawberry Earthquake Cake without a box mix?
Absolutely! Substitute with a homemade strawberry cake batter for a completely from scratch version.
Can I bake this in a bundt pan?
Yes, but adjust the baking time to 45–50 minutes and check for doneness.
Why did my Strawberry Earthquake Cake turn out too dry or too soggy?
- Too dry? You may have overbaked it—try reducing the bake time by a few minutes.
- Too soggy? Make sure you’re not adding too many strawberries or liquid ingredients.
Final Thoughts
This Strawberry Earthquake Cake is the perfect balance of rich, creamy, and fruity flavors. Whether you’re making it for a family gathering, a holiday dessert, or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit.
If you’re looking for more fun and festive desserts, be sure to check out these Valentine’s Day Cake Pops or indulge in a Classic Red Velvet Cake for an equally delicious experience.
Happy baking!