I’ve always loved desserts that are both easy to make and a little unexpected, and that’s why I’m hooked on Strawberry Earthquake Cake. It’s a simple mix of cake batter and creamy swirls that create a uniquely cracked top. Fresh strawberries add a sweet, tangy touch that makes every bite exciting. If you’re curious how a dessert can look like it’s been through an earthquake, you’re in for a treat.
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This Strawberry Earthquake Cake is a delightful dessert that combines rich flavors with a unique texture. You’ll love how easy it is to make and the amazing results it delivers.
- Simple Preparation: No-fuss mixing and baking for a stress-free dessert.
- Irresistible Flavor: Perfect blend of creamy, fruity, and cakey goodness.
- Stunning Presentation: Cracked, quake-like top makes it visually appealing.
Recipe
Strawberry Earthquake Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the rich flavors of cream cheese, strawberries, and a moist cake base, creating a visually stunning and delicious treat. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, offering a unique twist on traditional cakes with its “earthquake” effect, where the cream cheese mixture creates beautiful cracks on the surface.
Ingredients:
- 1 box of white cake mix
- 1 cup of water
- 1/2 cup of vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup of fresh strawberries, chopped
- 8 oz of cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups of powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, prepare the cake mix by combining it with water, vegetable oil, and eggs. Mix smooth.
- Pour the cake batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
- Sprinkle the chopped strawberries evenly over the cake batter.
- In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
- Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the cake batter and strawberries. Use a knife to gently swirl the cream cheese mixture into the batter, creating a marbled effect.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the cake is set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool before serving.
Notes:
- For a more intense strawberry flavor, you can add a few drops of strawberry extract to the cream cheese mixture.
- Confirm the cream cheese and butter are at room temperature for easier mixing.
Time:
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Serving:
12 servings
Calories:
Approximately 350 calories per serving
Cuisine:
American
Equipment
Preparing a strawberry earthquake cake requires basic baking tools for mixing and baking. Verify all equipment is clean and ready before starting.
- 9×13-inch baking pan
- Mixing bowls (large and medium)
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
- Wire rack (for cooling)
- Oven mitts
- Knife or toothpick (for testing doneness)
Nutrition
Strawberry Earthquake Cake is a delightful dessert that combines rich chocolate and sweet strawberries. While indulgent, it’s important to be mindful of its nutritional content.
- Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
- Total Fat: 18g, including 10g saturated fat
- Carbohydrates: 45g, with 35g of sugar
- Protein: 5g
- Sodium: 200mg
What to Serve With This Recipe
I love serving my Strawberry Earthquake Cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream to complement its rich flavor, and I always top it with a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence. Pairing it with fresh fruit, like sliced strawberries or bananas, adds a invigorating touch that balances the sweetness. You can’t go wrong with a warm cup of coffee or tea on the side, or even a drizzle of chocolate for a decadent finish!
Ice Cream Pairings
When I’m serving up a slice of Strawberry Earthquake Cake, I always think about how a scoop of ice cream can take it to the next level. My go-to ice cream flavors are vanilla, strawberry, or even a creamy cheesecake—each one complements the cake’s rich, fruity layers perfectly. For serving suggestions, I like to let the ice cream soften slightly so it melts just a bit onto the warm cake, creating a delicious mix of textures. Sometimes, I’ll add a drizzle of melted chocolate or caramel, but honestly, the cake and ice cream together are already a dream team. You’ll love this combo!
Whipped Cream Topping
While ice cream is a fantastic pairing for Strawberry Earthquake Cake, sometimes a lighter topping can be just as delightful. I love adding freshly whipped cream—it’s like a fluffy cloud that complements the cake’s rich, gooey layers. The whipped texture feels airy, balancing the decadence without overpowering it. I’ll even add a hint of vanilla to enhance the flavor balance. It’s super easy to make, and it always gives the cake a touch of elegance. Plus, you can control the sweetness, which is perfect if you prefer something light. Trust me, it’s a game-changer!
Fresh Fruit Sides
A couple of fresh fruit sides can really elevate the Strawberry Earthquake Cake experience, adding a burst of natural sweetness and an exhilarating contrast. I love pairing the cake with a mix of seasonal fruits like juicy peaches, ripe berries, or tangy citrus slices. It’s a simple yet vibrant addition that balances the cake’s richness. Fruit salads are another go-to for me—toss together watermelon, grapes, and kiwi for a colorful, rejuvenating bite. Plus, using seasonal fruits guarantees everything tastes its best. These sides not only brighten the plate but also make each bite feel a little healthier, which I always appreciate!
Coffee or Tea
After enjoying the fresh fruit sides, I like to think about what drink will complement the Strawberry Earthquake Cake best. For me, it’s a toss-up between coffee brewing and tea steeping. A warm cup of coffee, especially with a hint of cream, pairs wonderfully with the cake’s sweetness, balancing its richness. If I’m in the mood for something lighter, I opt for tea, like a fragrant herbal blend or a classic black tea. Both drinks add a cozy touch to the dessert experience, and I love how they make every bite feel even more satisfying. What’s your go-to choice?
Chocolate Drizzle Ideas
To take this Strawberry Earthquake Cake to the next level, I love adding a chocolate drizzle—it’s like the cherry on top, but better! I usually use dark, milk, or white chocolate types, depending on the mood. For drizzle techniques, I melt the chocolate, let it cool slightly, then pour it into a zip-top bag with a tiny corner cut off. I zigzag it over the cake, creating a messy, artistic look. Sometimes, I add a pinch of sea salt or sprinkle crushed nuts for extra flair. It’s simple, quick, and makes the dessert feel fancier without much effort. Trust me, it’s a game-changer!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Frozen Strawberries Instead of Fresh?
I’d recommend using frozen strawberries if fresh aren’t available. Just make sure you’re thawing strawberries first and draining any excess liquid to avoid adding too much moisture to the recipe. They’ll work great!
How Long Does the Cake Stay Fresh?
Like a fleeting moment, freshness fades, but I’ve found its shelf life stretches to three days when stored right. I keep it covered, room temp or fridge, following storage tips to lock in its magic a bit longer.
Can I Make This Cake Gluten-Free?
I’d recommend using gluten-free flours like almond or oat flour to make the cake gluten-free. Just swap them 1:1, and follow baking tips like adding xanthan gum for better texture. It’ll work just fine!
What’S the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
I’ll store my leftovers in an airtight container to guarantee proper sealing, keeping them fresh. I’ll place it in the fridge if I plan to eat it soon or freeze it for longer leftover storage.
Can I Substitute the Cream Cheese With Something Else?
I’ve found cream cheese alternatives like mascarpone or Greek yogurt work well, though they’ll shift the texture. For flavor variations, I’ve even used ricotta or coconut cream, which add their own unique twist to the dish.
