Strawberry Earthquake Cake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: Utilizes a boxed cake mix, making it accessible even for novice bakers.
• Flavorful Layers: The combination of moist cake, creamy cheesecake swirls, and fresh strawberries offers a harmonious blend of textures and tastes.
• Visually Appealing: The “earthquake” cracks create an enticing presentation, perfect for impressing guests.

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. Preheat and Prepare:
   • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
   • Prepare the cake mix according to package instructions. Gently fold in the chopped strawberries. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish.
2. Create the Cream Cheese Mixture:
   • In a medium bowl, beat together the cream cheese, melted butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
   • Drop spoonfuls of this cream cheese mixture over the cake batter.
3. Add Toppings:
   • Sprinkle coconut flakes and white chocolate chips evenly over the top of the cake batter and cream cheese mixture.
4. Bake to Perfection:
   • Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the cake is set and the edges are golden brown.
   • Allow the cake to cool before serving. The top will have a beautiful cracked, earthquake effect with delicious pockets of cream cheese and strawberry.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Variations

• Chocolate Lover’s Delight:
  • Substitute the white cake mix with a chocolate cake mix for a decadent chocolate-covered strawberry cake. Add chocolate chips to the cream cheese mixture for extra richness.
• Berry Medley:
  • Mix chopped strawberries with raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries for a mixed berry explosion. Layer the different berries between the cake and cream cheese mixture.
• Citrus Infusion:
  • Add zest from a lemon or orange to the cake batter and incorporate a citrus-flavored cream cheese mixture. Garnish with candied citrus peels for an added touch.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover cake in an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly with foil. It can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, wrap individual slices or the entire cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or use a freezer-safe container. Label with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
• Thawing: To thaw frozen cake, place it in the refrigerator overnight. Allow it to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

FAQs

What is an earthquake cake?

An earthquake cake is a type of cake that, during baking, develops cracks and crevices, giving it a “shaken” appearance. This effect is typically achieved by incorporating a cream cheese mixture into the batter, which creates pockets of gooeyness and causes the cake to crack as it bakes.

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries. Ensure they are thawed and drained of excess moisture before incorporating them into the batter to prevent the cake from becoming too soggy.

Is it necessary to include coconut flakes?

No, coconut flakes are optional. If you’re not a fan of coconut, you can omit them or replace them with chopped nuts or additional chocolate chips.

Can I substitute the white cake mix with another flavor?

Absolutely! You can experiment with different cake mix flavors such as chocolate, lemon, or vanilla to create unique variations of the earthquake cake.

How do I know when the cake is done baking?

The cake is done when the edges are golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. The top will have a cracked appearance, which is characteristic of an earthquake cake.

Can I add other fruits to the cake?

Yes, you can mix in other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries along with the strawberries to create a mixed berry version of the cake.

How should I serve the cake?

The cake can be served at room temperature or slightly warmed. It’s delicious on its own, but you can also top it with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cake a day in advance. Once cooled, cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator. Bring it to room temperature or warm it slightly before serving.

What causes the “earthquake” effect in the cake?

The “earthquake” effect is caused by the cream cheese mixture

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