Strawberry Earthquake Cake

A delightful twist on a classic dessert, the Strawberry Earthquake Cake is a visual and culinary masterpiece. Combining the sweetness of strawberries, the creaminess of a rich cream cheese mixture, and a touch of coconut and white chocolate chips, this cake is the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The result is a cake that’s as beautiful as it is delicious, with a crackly, earthquake-like top and layers of creamy filling that will have you coming back for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Strawberry Earthquake Cake is a stunning dessert that brings both flavor and fun to the table. The combination of the cake’s soft texture, the creamy layer, and the crunchy coconut and white chocolate chips make every bite a treat. Not only is this cake easy to make using a box of white cake mix, but it also features fresh strawberries, making it a light yet indulgent dessert. The “earthquake” effect—caused by the creamy mixture sinking into the cake as it bakes—adds a visually striking touch, perfect for impressing guests at any gathering.

Ingredients

• 1 box white cake mix

• Ingredients required by cake mix (usually water, oil, and eggs)

• 1 cup strawberries, chopped

• 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

• 4 cups powdered sugar

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1/2 cup coconut flakes

• 1/2 cup white chocolate chips

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

Directions

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

2. Prepare the Cake Batter: Follow the instructions on the cake mix box to prepare the cake batter. Once mixed, gently fold in the chopped strawberries and then pour the batter into the prepared baking dish.

3. Create the Cream Cheese Mixture: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, melted butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together until smooth and creamy.

4. Assemble: Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture evenly over the top of the cake batter in the dish. Don’t worry if it looks messy—this is where the “earthquake” effect happens.

5. Enhance with Texture: Sprinkle coconut flakes and white chocolate chips over the cake for added flavor and texture.

6. Bake to Perfection: Place the cake in the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes or until the cake is set and the edges are golden brown. The center will be slightly jiggly, which is fine as it will firm up while cooling.

7. Final Touch: Allow the cake to cool completely. As it cools, the cream cheese mixture will create the signature cracks that give the cake its “earthquake” effect.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12-15 servings

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 40-45 minutes

• Total Time: 1 hour (including cooling time)

Variations

• Fruit Variations: Instead of strawberries, you can use raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries for a different fruity twist.

• Nutty Addition: Add chopped nuts, such as pecans or almonds, to the top for an extra crunch.

• Coconut-Free: If you’re not a fan of coconut, you can skip the coconut flakes or replace them with additional white chocolate chips or chopped nuts.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover Strawberry Earthquake Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate it for up to a week.

• Reheating: To reheat, simply place a slice in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I make this cake without the cream cheese mixture?

Yes, while the cream cheese mixture is what makes the cake special, you can substitute it with a regular frosting or omit it altogether if preferred.

2. Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh ones?

Fresh strawberries work best for this recipe, but if you’re using frozen strawberries, make sure to thaw and drain them to prevent excess moisture from affecting the cake.

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

Certainly! If you want to experiment, you can use a strawberry or vanilla cake mix to complement the fruitier flavors of the cake.

4. Why is the cake called “earthquake cake”?

The name comes from the cracks that form on the top of the cake due to the cream cheese mixture sinking into the cake as it bakes, creating a “fault line” effect.

5. Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this cake a day ahead and store it in an airtight container. It actually tastes even better after a day or two as the flavors meld together.

6. Can I use a different type of chocolate instead of white chocolate chips?

Absolutely! You can use milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even semi-sweet chocolate chips to suit your taste.

7. How can I make this cake more indulgent?

For an extra indulgent version, top the cake with whipped cream or ice cream when serving.

8. What should I do if my cake isn’t set after 45 minutes?

If the center is still jiggly after 45 minutes, you can extend the baking time by 5-minute intervals, but keep an eye on it to avoid overbaking.

9. Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, you can freeze the cake for up to 2 months. Just make sure it’s fully cooled and wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing.

10. How do I know when the cake is done baking?

The cake is done when the edges are golden brown and the center is firm to the touch, but slightly soft. If you insert a toothpick, it should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter.

Conclusion

Strawberry Earthquake Cake is an irresistible dessert that combines the best of both worlds: a delicious cake and a creamy, decadent filling. With its perfect balance of flavors and textures, it’s an easy yet impressive treat to share at any gathering. Whether you’re a fan of strawberries, coconut, or white chocolate, this cake is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.