Strawberry Earthquake Cake Recipe

Introduction

Strawberry Earthquake Cake is a fun and visually striking dessert that combines the tangy sweetness of fresh strawberries with the rich, decadent flavors of cake and a gooey, cream cheese filling. Inspired by the traditional Earthquake Cake, this version is enhanced with the addition of ripe strawberries and a delightful cream cheese swirl that gives it an unforgettable flavor and texture. When baked, the cake creates cracks across the surface, reminiscent of an earthquake, while the filling oozes out, making it irresistible.

This cake is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a birthday party, celebrating a special event, or simply craving a sweet treat. The combination of fresh strawberries, creamy filling, and a moist, tender cake makes it an instant crowd-pleaser. This guide will walk you through the step-by-step process, provide helpful tips, and suggest fun variations to take this cake to the next level.

Why You’ll Love Strawberry Earthquake Cake

• Bursting with Fresh Strawberry Flavor: The addition of fresh strawberries brings a bright, tangy flavor to the cake, balancing the sweetness of the cream cheese filling and the moist cake base.
• Rich, Creamy Filling: The cream cheese filling swirls throughout the cake, creating a gooey, delicious surprise with every bite. It adds richness and a tangy contrast to the sweet cake.
• Beautiful and Fun Presentation: The cracked surface of the cake gives it a unique, “earthquake” appearance, making it an eye-catching dessert for any occasion. The vibrant red strawberries also add a pop of color to the top.
• Moist and Tender: The cake itself is incredibly moist and tender, with the perfect balance of sweetness and texture. It stays fresh for several days, making it a great option for make-ahead desserts.
• Simple Ingredients and Easy to Make: With a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create a dessert that looks and tastes like it came from a bakery. Even novice bakers will find this recipe easy to follow.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 45 minutes
• Cooling Time: 30 minutes (for setting)
• Servings: Approximately 12 servings
• Calories per Serving: Around 350-400 calories per serving, depending on ingredients and portion sizes.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 350-400 kcal
• Fat: 20-22g
• Carbohydrates: 40-45g
• Protein: 3g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 25-28g

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
• 1 package (3.4 oz) strawberry gelatin mix
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup water
• 2 cups fresh strawberries, chopped (about 1 pint)

For the Cream Cheese Filling:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Topping:

• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup shredded coconut (optional)
• 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

Special Equipment

Making Strawberry Earthquake Cake doesn’t require any specialized tools, but a few pieces of equipment can help ensure a smooth baking process:

1. Electric Mixer: While you can mix the batter and filling by hand, an electric mixer helps create a smooth, fluffy batter and filling quickly. It’s especially useful for mixing the cream cheese filling.
2. 9×13-inch Baking Pan: A 9×13-inch baking pan is the ideal size for this cake. It allows the cake to bake evenly and gives the perfect amount of surface area for the filling and topping to spread.
3. Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for getting the balance of ingredients just right. Standard measuring cups and spoons will ensure your cake turns out perfect every time.
4. Mixing Bowls: You’ll need a few mixing bowls to combine the cake ingredients and make the cream cheese filling. Using separate bowls for the filling and batter will help prevent cross-contamination and keep things organized.
5. Spatula or Spoon: A spatula or spoon is necessary for spreading the cream cheese filling and smoothing the cake batter in the pan.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Cake Batter

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with non-stick cooking spray or butter, and set it aside. In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix and the strawberry gelatin mix. The gelatin mix adds flavor and color to the cake, giving it a delicious strawberry essence.

Add the vegetable oil, eggs, and water to the dry ingredients. Using an electric mixer, beat the ingredients on low speed for 1 minute to combine. Then, increase the speed to medium and continue to mix for 2-3 minutes until the batter is smooth and well-incorporated.

Fold in the chopped strawberries gently. The fresh strawberries will add bursts of fruity flavor to the cake and help create the “earthquake” effect once baked.

2. Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling

In a separate mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together using an electric mixer. Beat on medium speed until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Continue to beat until smooth and creamy.

This filling will swirl throughout the cake, creating pockets of creaminess that contrast beautifully with the dense cake. It’s a key element of the “earthquake” effect.

3. Assemble the Cake

Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared baking pan. Spread it evenly across the bottom of the pan with a spatula or spoon. Next, spoon dollops of the cream cheese filling over the cake batter. Don’t worry about spreading it out perfectly—just place spoonfuls of the filling randomly across the surface.

Carefully spoon the remaining cake batter over the cream cheese filling. Use the back of a spoon to spread it evenly, but try to leave some of the filling exposed on top to create the signature cracks.

4. Add the Topping

In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, shredded coconut, and chopped pecans or walnuts (if using). Stir to combine and evenly distribute the nuts and coconut throughout the butter. Sprinkle the mixture over the top of the cake batter.

The butter and coconut will toast during baking, adding a lovely crunch and golden color to the top of the cake, while the pecans provide a nutty contrast to the sweetness of the cake.

5. Bake the Cake

Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean, or with only a few moist crumbs attached. The cake should be golden brown on top, with cracks forming across the surface—this is the “earthquake” effect in action!

Keep an eye on the cake as it bakes. If the top starts to brown too quickly, cover it with aluminum foil and continue baking until the cake is fully cooked.

6. Cool the Cake

Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 30 minutes. The cake will continue to set as it cools, and the filling will firm up slightly. Once it has cooled to room temperature, slice and serve!

Tips for Perfect Strawberry Earthquake Cake

• Use Fresh Strawberries: Fresh strawberries will give the cake a natural sweetness and burst of flavor. Frozen strawberries will release too much moisture and may make the cake soggy.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing the cake batter can result in a dense, tough cake. Mix until just combined, and be gentle when folding in the strawberries.
• Don’t Skip the Cream Cheese Filling: The cream cheese filling is what gives the cake its signature gooey texture and flavor. It’s essential to the earthquake effect, so don’t skip it!
• Check for Doneness: The toothpick test is the best way to check if the cake is done. Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake—if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the cake is ready. If the toothpick is covered in wet batter, the cake needs more time.
• Let the Cake Cool Completely: For the best texture and flavor, let the cake cool before serving. This will allow the cream cheese filling to set and give the cake time to firm up.

Variations of Strawberry Earthquake Cake

• Chocolate Earthquake Cake: Replace the yellow cake mix with chocolate cake mix and the strawberry gelatin with chocolate pudding mix. The result will be a rich, chocolatey version of this fun dessert.
• Peach Earthquake Cake: Replace the strawberries with fresh peaches for a summery twist. The sweetness and juiciness of peaches will pair wonderfully with the cream cheese filling and cake.
• Coconut Earthquake Cake: If you love coconut, increase the amount of shredded coconut in the topping and mix some into the cake batter for extra coconut flavor.
• Lemon Strawberry Earthquake Cake: Add lemon zest and a few tablespoons of lemon juice to the cake batter to give it a refreshing citrus twist that pairs beautifully with the strawberries.

Storage and Shelf Life

Strawberry Earthquake Cake is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored for later. Cover the cake with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. The cake will remain moist and flavorful.

For longer storage, refrigerate the cake for up to 5 days. The cream cheese filling may firm up in the fridge, so allow the cake to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Strawberry Earthquake Cake

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream is the perfect accompaniment to this rich and decadent cake. The creamy ice cream complements the dense, sweet cake and balances the richness of the cream cheese filling.
• Fresh Berries: A side of fresh strawberries or mixed berries adds a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cake. The bright, tart flavor of the berries cuts through the richness of the dessert.
• Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream on top of the cake adds lightness and an extra touch of creaminess. It’s the perfect finishing touch for this indulgent treat.

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Conclusion

Strawberry Earthquake Cake is a stunning dessert that combines fresh strawberries, rich cake, and a gooey cream cheese filling. With its unique appearance and delicious flavor, it’s sure to impress your guests at any event. The cake is moist and tender, while the cream cheese filling adds a creamy, indulgent contrast. Whether you’re serving it at a summer picnic, birthday party, or holiday gathering, this dessert will be a hit.

Follow the step-by-step instructions, use the helpful tips, and enjoy this beautiful and tasty treat. Strawberry Earthquake Cake is guaranteed to become a favorite in your dessert rotation, with its perfect balance of flavors and textures. Happy baking!