Why Make This Strawberry Earthquake Cake
If you’re looking for a dessert that captures the essence of summer while delivering an incredible burst of flavor, Strawberry Earthquake Cake is the perfect choice. This delightful concoction harmonizes the sweetness of strawberries with rich white chocolate and a creamy, dreamy filling that will leave your taste buds dancing. Every bite reveals a playful mix of textures – from the moist cake to the rich cream cheese layer, all topped with a hint of nutty crunch if you decide to add pecans or walnuts. It’s not just a treat; it’s a show-stopping dessert that’s sure to impress family and friends!
How to Make Strawberry Earthquake Cake
Creating this unforgettable Strawberry Earthquake Cake is simpler than you might think. Using a box mix as a base allows for quick prep while fresh strawberries and a homemade cream cheese filling take it to new heights. Whether you’re baking for a birthday, a picnic, or just because you have a craving, this cake will bring joy to any occasion. The best part? It’s as easy as 1-2-3!
Ingredients:
- 1 box strawberry cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box: eggs, oil, water)
- 1½ cups fresh or frozen strawberries (chopped)
- 1 cup white chocolate chips or chunks
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 2½ cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the strawberry cake mix according to the instructions on the box, adding in the eggs, oil, and water as required.
- Once mixed, gently fold in the chopped strawberries, white chocolate chips, sweetened coconut, and nuts (if using).
- Pour half of the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly.
- In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
- Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the batter in the pan.
- Pour the remaining batter on top, then gently swirl together with a knife to create a marbled effect.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40–45 minutes or until the center is set and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing and serving.
Nutritional Information
This recipe yields approximately 12 servings. Here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving:
- Calories: 290
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 250mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 42g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 30g
- Protein: 3g
How to Serve Strawberry Earthquake Cake
Strawberry Earthquake Cake is best served chilled or at room temperature, making it an ideal treat for summer gatherings or cozy family get-togethers. For an extra touch of elegance, serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. You can even garnish with fresh strawberries or a sprinkle of cocoa powder to take your presentation to the next level!
How to Store Strawberry Earthquake Cake
To store your Strawberry Earthquake Cake, cover it with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for about 3 to 5 days. If you want to store it longer, consider freezing individual slices. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. They can last for up to 2 months in the freezer. Just allow slices to thaw in the refrigerator before enjoying!
Expert Tips for Perfect Strawberry Earthquake Cake
- Choose Quality Ingredients: Opt for fresh strawberries when in season for the best flavor. If using frozen, ensure you thaw and drain them well.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the batter, mix just until the ingredients are incorporated to keep your cake light and airy.
- Swirl Creatively: Swirling the cream cheese mixture into the batter is where you can be artistic. Feel free to get creative with your design!
Delicious Variations
- Chocolate Strawberry Earthquake Cake: Substitute the strawberry cake mix for chocolate cake mix and add chocolate chips for an indulgent twist.
- Nut-Free Option: Simply omit the pecans or walnuts for a nut-free dessert that everyone can enjoy.
- Coconut-Free Cake: Replace shredded coconut with extra strawberries or chocolate chips, appealing to those who may not enjoy coconut.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes! Frozen strawberries work perfectly. Just make sure to thaw them and drain the excess moisture before adding them to your batter.What if I don’t have cream cheese?
You can replace cream cheese with mascarpone cheese or a store-bought cream cheese frosting for a different flavor profile.How can I make it gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free strawberry cake mix. Make sure all other ingredients you use are also certified gluten-free.
Conclusion
Strawberry Earthquake Cake is a delightful dessert that combines unique flavors and textures into a visually stunning treat. Its ease of preparation means you can whip it up even on busy days, making it a must-try for everyone who loves a good cake. So gather your ingredients and indulge in the sweet, comforting tastes of summer – your guests will be begging for the recipe! Don’t forget to share your experiences and any variations you try in the comments below! Happy baking!
Strawberry Earthquake Cake
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking pan.
- Prepare the strawberry cake mix according to the instructions on the box, adding in the required eggs, oil, and water.
- Gently fold in the chopped strawberries, white chocolate chips, sweetened coconut, and nuts (if using).
- Pour half of the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly.
- In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
- Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
- Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the batter in the pan.
- Pour the remaining batter on top and gently swirl together with a knife to create a marbled effect.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40–45 minutes or until the center is set and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing and serving.