How to Make Strawberry Earthquake Cake at Home

Introduction

Strawberry Earthquake Cake is the perfect dessert for those who love a mix of textures and flavors. This unique cake gets its name from the “earthquake” effect, where the gooey cream cheese filling cracks through the moist strawberry cake base, creating delicious swirls and pockets of flavor. Topped with coconut, pecans, and melted chocolate, every bite is a delightful combination of sweetness and crunch.

What makes this recipe truly special is how easy it is to prepare. With a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a show-stopping dessert that’s perfect for potlucks, birthday parties, or just a cozy night at home. Let’s dive into this fun and flavorful recipe for Strawberry Earthquake Cake!

Prep Time and Servings for Strawberry Earthquake Cake

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Servings: 12

This quick and easy recipe makes a generously sized cake that’s perfect for sharing with friends and family.

Ingredients for Strawberry Earthquake Cake

For the Cake

• 1 box strawberry cake mix (15.25 oz)
• 1 cup water (or as directed on the box)
• ⅓ cup vegetable oil (or as directed on the box)
• 3 large eggs (or as directed on the box)

The Cream Cheese Filling

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Toppings

• 1 cup shredded sweetened coconut
• ½ cup chopped pecans (optional)
• ½ cup white chocolate chips or chunks
• ½ cup fresh strawberries, diced

These simple ingredients come together to create a colorful and gooey dessert packed with flavor and texture.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Strawberry Earthquake Cake

1. Prepare the Pan

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

2. Add the Base Layer

3. Sprinkle the shredded coconut evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking pan.
4. Top the coconut with an even layer of chopped pecans (if using).

3. Prepare the Cake Batter

5. In a large mixing bowl, prepare the strawberry cake batter according to the package instructions (combine cake mix, water, oil, and eggs).
6. Pour the prepared batter evenly over the coconut and pecan layer in the pan.

4. Make the Cream Cheese Filling

7. In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, melted butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
8. Spoon dollops of the cream cheese mixture over the cake batter, spacing them out evenly. Use a butter knife to swirl the cream cheese mixture into the batter gently.

5. Add the Toppings

9. Sprinkle the top with white chocolate chips and diced fresh strawberries, ensuring even distribution for maximum flavor.

6. Bake the Cake

10. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly. The cream cheese filling will bubble and create an “earthquake” effect as it bakes.

7. Cool and Serve

11. Let the cake cool in the pan for at least 20 minutes before slicing.
12. Serve warm or at room temperature. The gooey texture makes this cake irresistible!

Step-by-Step Instructions for Strawberry Earthquake Cake

1. Prepare the Cake Base

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with butter or nonstick spray.
2. Sprinkle the shredded coconut evenly over the bottom of the prepared baking pan.
3. Add a layer of chopped pecans (if using) on top of the coconut for extra crunch.

2. Make the Cake Batter

4. In a large mixing bowl, prepare the strawberry cake mix according to the package instructions, combining the mix with water, vegetable oil, and eggs.
5. Pour the prepared cake batter over the coconut and pecans in the pan, spreading it out evenly.

3. Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling

6. In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, melted butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
7. Dollop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the cake batter. Use a knife or spatula to swirl it gently into the batter, creating a marbled effect.

4. Add Toppings

8. Sprinkle the white chocolate chips and diced fresh strawberries evenly over the top of the cake.

5. Bake the Cake

9. Bake in the preheated oven for 40–45 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly. The cream cheese filling will create pockets and cracks that give the cake its “earthquake” look.
10. Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for at least 15–20 minutes before slicing and serving.

This step-by-step method ensures a perfect Strawberry Earthquake Cake with gooey swirls, bright flavors, and irresistible texture.

Pro Tips for Perfect Strawberry Earthquake Cake

1. Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smooth and creamy filling that swirls easily into the batter.
2. Don’t Overmix the Swirls: When swirling the cream cheese mixture into the cake batter, avoid overmixing. Gentle swirls will create distinct marbled pockets of flavor.
3. Add Extra Toppings: Customize the cake with additional toppings like chocolate chips, crushed cookies, or more fresh strawberries for added texture and flavor.
4. Check for Doneness: The cake is ready when the edges are golden brown, and the center is slightly set but still jiggly due to the cream cheese. Avoid overbaking to keep the filling gooey.
5. Cool Before Serving: Let the cake cool slightly before slicing to allow the layers to set and make cutting easier.
6. Make It Ahead: Strawberry Earthquake Cake can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Serve chilled or warmed slightly in the microwave for a gooey texture.

Follow these tips for a perfectly gooey, flavorful, and visually stunning Strawberry Earthquake Cake every time.

Serving Suggestions for Strawberry Earthquake Cake

1. Serve Warm: Enjoy the cake slightly warm out of the oven for a gooey, molten texture. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
2. Top with Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of fresh whipped cream and garnish with sliced strawberries for a light and airy topping.
3. Drizzle with Chocolate: Enhance the flavor by drizzling melted white or dark chocolate over each slice before serving.
4. Pair with Coffee or Tea: This sweet and tangy cake pairs perfectly with a cup of hot coffee or a fruity tea for a delightful afternoon treat.
5. As a Party Dessert: Cut the cake into smaller squares and serve it as part of a dessert platter alongside treats like Hot Fudge Brownie Bread or Toffee Butterscotch Poke Cake.

These serving ideas make Strawberry Earthquake Cake versatile for any occasion, whether casual or festive.

FAQs About Strawberry Earthquake Cake

1. Why is it called an earthquake cake?

The cake gets its name from the way the cream cheese filling and toppings create cracks and pockets in the surface while baking, mimicking the effect of an “earthquake.” This gives the cake its rustic and unique look.

2. Can I use fresh strawberries instead of cake mix?

Yes! If you prefer a homemade strawberry cake base, you can blend fresh strawberries into your favorite vanilla cake recipe for a natural flavor. However, using cake mix makes the recipe quick and easy while still delivering great results.

3. Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply substitute the regular strawberry cake mix with a gluten-free cake mix. Ensure all other ingredients, like powdered sugar and white chocolate chips, are also certified gluten-free.

4. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover Strawberry Earthquake Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave individual slices for 15–20 seconds for a warm, gooey texture.

5. Can I freeze Strawberry Earthquake Cake?

Yes, this cake freezes well! Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating or enjoying chilled.

Conclusion

Strawberry Earthquake Cake is a dessert that delivers everything you could want: gooey cream cheese pockets, sweet strawberry flavors, and delightful toppings like coconut, pecans, and white chocolate. It’s visually stunning and bursting with flavor, making it perfect for any celebration or casual gathering.

The best part? This cake is incredibly easy to make and allows you to get creative with customizations. Pair it with a scoop of ice

cream or drizzle it with melted chocolate for an extra touch of indulgence. Whether you’re serving it warm for a comforting treat or chilled for a refreshing dessert, Strawberry Earthquake Cake is sure to become a favorite.

Try this recipe today and watch it disappear from the table as everyone comes back for seconds!

Recommended Recipes

If you loved Strawberry Earthquake Cake, here are some other irresistible dessert ideas to try:

1. Hot Fudge Brownie Bread – A rich and gooey dessert perfect for chocolate lovers.
2. Toffee Butterscotch Poke Cake – A sweet and indulgent cake filled with butterscotch flavor.
3. Apple Cinnamon Roll Cake – A soft and spiced cake that’s perfect for fall.
4. Ferrero Rocher Cheesecake – A luxurious dessert combining hazelnut and creamy cheesecake.
5. Peach Cobbler Cheesecake – A fruity fusion of peach cobbler and creamy cheesecake.

These recipes pair beautifully with Strawberry Earthquake Cake and will make your dessert table unforgettable.