Strawberry Earthquake Cake Recipe
This irresistible Strawberry Earthquake Cake perfectly combines the flavors of moist strawberry cake with a creamy, dreamy cream cheese layer swirled throughout. Topped with fresh strawberries, toasted nuts, and a hint of shredded coconut, this show-stopping dessert is sure to captivate hearts and taste buds alike. Ideal for special occasions or whenever you crave a luscious strawberry treat.
- Author: Daniel
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
For the Cake
- 1 box Strawberry Cake Mix
- 1.5 cups Fresh or Frozen Strawberries (thawed and drained if frozen)
- 1 cup White Chocolate Chips or Chunks (dark chocolate can be substituted)
- 1 cup Sweetened Shredded Coconut (optional)
- 0.5 cup Chopped Pecans or Walnuts (can be swapped with almonds)
For the Cream Cheese Layer
- 8 oz Cream Cheese, softened
- 0.5 cup Unsalted Butter (equal parts oil can be used for dairy-free)
- 2.5 cups Powdered Sugar (granulated sugar can be used but may affect texture)
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (almond extract can substitute)
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to ensure the cake doesn’t stick.
- Prepare the Cake Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the strawberry cake mix with the required water, vegetable oil, and eggs as per the cake mix instructions. Mix until smooth and consistent.
- First Batter Layer: Pour half of the prepared strawberry batter evenly into the greased baking dish to create the base layer for the cake.
- Make the Cream Cheese Filling: Beat the softened cream cheese in a separate bowl until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract while continuing to beat until the mixture is fluffy and well combined.
- Add the Cream Cheese Layer: Spoon the cream cheese mixture evenly over the layer of strawberry batter. Swirl it gently through the batter to create a marbled effect.
- Top with Strawberries and Remaining Batter: Scatter diced fresh strawberries over the cream cheese layer. Drizzle the remaining half of the strawberry batter on top, spreading gently to cover.
- Bake the Cake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, indicating the cake is done.
- Cool and Slice: Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before slicing into squares for serving.
- Toast the Nuts: In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the chopped nuts until they turn golden brown and become fragrant. Be careful not to burn them.
- Serve: Sprinkle the toasted nuts and shredded coconut (if using) over the top of the cake before serving to add crunch and flavor.
Notes
- Optional: Top each slice with whipped cream for a delightful finish.
- You can substitute dark chocolate chips for white chocolate if preferred.
- For a dairy-free version, replace the cream cheese and butter with appropriate dairy-free alternatives.
- If using frozen strawberries, ensure they are completely thawed and drained to avoid excess moisture in the cake.
- Let the cake cool thoroughly to make slicing easier and cleaner.
Keywords: Strawberry Cake, Cream Cheese Cake, Dessert, Baked Strawberry Cake, Strawberry Dessert, Homemade Cake, Cake with Fresh Strawberries, White Chocolate Cake