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Strawberry Earthquake Cake Recipe

4.9 from 64 reviews

This Irresistible Strawberry Earthquake Cake is a delightful and visually stunning dessert that combines a moist strawberry cake base with a rich cream cheese layer, fresh strawberries, and toasted nuts. Bursting with fruity flavors and a creamy texture, this cake is perfect for special occasions or whenever you want a show-stopping treat.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Cake

  • 1 box Strawberry Cake Mix
  • 1.5 cups Fresh or Frozen Strawberries (if using frozen, ensure they’re thawed and drained)
  • 1 cup White Chocolate Chips or Chunks (dark chocolate can be substituted)
  • 1 cup Sweetened Shredded Coconut (can be omitted if desired)
  • 0.5 cup Chopped Pecans or Walnuts (can be swapped with almonds)

For the Cream Cheese Layer

  • 8 oz Cream Cheese (ensure it’s 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)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking.
  2. Mix Cake Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the strawberry cake mix with the required water, vegetable oil, and eggs according to the package instructions until the batter is smooth and well blended.
  3. Pour First Layer: Pour half of the strawberry batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom.
  4. Prepare Cream Cheese Mixture: Beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Then, mix in the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract, whipping the mixture until it becomes fluffy and well combined.
  5. Add Cream Cheese Layer: Spoon the cream cheese mixture evenly over the first layer of cake batter and gently swirl it through the batter to create marbled effects.
  6. Add Strawberries and Top Batter: Scatter diced fresh strawberries over the cream cheese layer, then drizzle the remaining cake batter on top in an even layer.
  7. Bake the Cake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, ensuring the cake is fully cooked.
  8. Cool Before Serving: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes to set and make slicing easier.
  9. Toast Nuts: While the cake cools, toast the chopped pecans or walnuts in a skillet over medium heat until golden brown and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
  10. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the toasted nuts evenly over the cooled cake before serving to add crunch and enhance flavor.

Notes

  • You can omit the shredded coconut if you prefer a nut-free or less textured cake.
  • Dark chocolate chips can be used instead of white chocolate for a different flavor profile.
  • Dairy-free versions can be made by substituting cream cheese and butter with plant-based alternatives and using oil where specified.
  • Ensure frozen strawberries are thoroughly thawed and drained to avoid excess moisture in the batter.
  • Swirling the cream cheese layer creates a beautiful marbled pattern that enhances the cake’s appearance.
  • Watch the toasted nuts carefully to avoid burning and achieve the perfect golden color.

Keywords: Strawberry cake, Cream cheese layer, Earthquake cake, White chocolate, Toasted nuts, Dessert, Baking recipe