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This Strawberry Earthquake Cake is the ultimate dessert for berry lovers. With a soft strawberry cake base, creamy cheesecake swirls, juicy strawberries, and sweet white chocolate chips, it’s a show-stopping treat that’s perfect for parties, holidays, or family gatherings. The “earthquake” name comes from the cracked and swirled top as the cream cheese mixture bakes into the cake, creating a beautiful marbled effect.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfect balance of sweet strawberries and creamy cheesecake.
- Uses a simple cake mix base for convenience.
- Impressive appearance without complicated techniques.
- Easy to customize with different add-ins.
- Ideal for birthdays, Valentine’s Day, or summer gatherings.
Ingredients Breakdown
For the Cake
- Strawberry Cake Mix (15.25 ounces): The shortcut base that delivers rich strawberry flavor and vibrant color.
- Eggs: Provide structure and richness; use room temperature for better blending.
- Water: Keeps the cake moist without overpowering flavors.
- Vegetable Oil: Adds tenderness and ensures a soft crumb.
For the Cream Cheese Mixture
- Cream Cheese: Softened for easy mixing; gives the cake its creamy cheesecake swirl.
- Unsalted Butter: Melted for richness and smooth texture.
- Confectioners’ Sugar: Sweetens and balances the tang of cream cheese.
- Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor.
- Kosher Salt: Brings out the sweetness while balancing richness.
Add-ins and Toppings
- Diced Strawberries: Fresh berries provide a juicy, tart-sweet burst.
- White Chocolate Chips: Add creamy sweetness and texture contrast.
Optional for Serving
- Vanilla ice cream
- Fresh strawberries
- Whipped cream or chocolate drizzle
Tips and Tricks
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Always use room temperature eggs and cream cheese for smooth mixing.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix cake batter just until smooth to avoid a dense texture.
- Check for Doneness: Insert a toothpick into the cake center—if it comes out clean, it’s ready.
- Rest Before Serving: Allow the cake to cool at least 30 minutes to set properly before cutting.
Variations and Customizations
- Chocolate Lovers: Swap white chocolate chips with semi-sweet or dark chocolate.
- Nutty Twist: Add chopped pecans or almonds for crunch.
- Berry Medley: Mix in raspberries or blueberries along with strawberries.
- Sugar Swap: Use reduced-sugar cake mix and sugar-free white chocolate for a lighter version.
- Gluten-Free Option: Replace with a gluten-free strawberry cake mix.
Pairing Suggestions
- With Ice Cream: Classic vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly with the warm cake.
- With Coffee or Tea: A hot drink balances the cake’s sweetness.
- With Fresh Fruit: Extra strawberries or mixed berries brighten each serving.
Storage Instructions
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Refrigerator: Keeps well for up to 5 days when chilled.
- Freezer: Freeze slices tightly wrapped in plastic and foil for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Popular Questions
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, but thaw and drain them first to avoid excess moisture.
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Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely. Bake it a day in advance and refrigerate; the flavors blend even better overnight.
Do I have to use a cake mix?
No. You can make a homemade strawberry cake base, but the mix saves time without sacrificing flavor.
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Strawberry Earthquake Cake
This Strawberry Earthquake Cake combines fluffy strawberry cake with pockets of creamy cheesecake, juicy strawberries, and sweet white chocolate chips. A rich, indulgent dessert perfect for celebrations or weekend baking.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a mixing bowl, combine cake mix, eggs, water, and oil. Beat until smooth. Pour batter into the prepared pan.
- Bake the base layer for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- In another bowl, beat softened cream cheese and melted butter until smooth. Gradually add confectioners’ sugar, then mix in vanilla and salt.
- Remove cake from oven, sprinkle diced strawberries and white chocolate chips over the top. Dollop cream cheese mixture across the surface.
- Return to the oven and bake another 15–20 minutes, until cream cheese is slightly golden.
- Let the cake rest for 30 minutes. Garnish with extra strawberries or serve with ice cream.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, add a tablespoon of strawberry jam to the cream cheese mixture.
- To prevent sinking, toss strawberries lightly in flour before adding them to the cake.
- This cake tastes even better the next day after chilling in the refrigerator.
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