Cooking method
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Prepare the strawberry cake mix according to the instructions on the box. Pour the batter into your greased baking dish.
Step 3: Sprinkle chopped strawberries, white chocolate chips, shredded coconut, and nuts (if using) evenly over the top of the cake batter.
Step 4: In a medium bowl, cream together the softened cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until the mixture is nice and smooth.
Step 5: Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the cake batter and use a knife to gently swirl it in, creating a beautiful marbled effect.
Step 6: Bake for 45–50 minutes or until the cake is set and golden brown on top. The center will remain slightly gooey—that’s the magic of the earthquake!
Step 7: Allow the cake to cool slightly, then dig in! It can be enjoyed warm or chilled, depending on your preference.
How to serve Strawberry Earthquake Cake
Make your presentation shine by serving this cake warm with a dollop of whipped cream, fresh strawberries on top, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. It’s an excellent choice for dessert at a Sunday brunch or as a welcoming treat for guests on the patio. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a fresh fruit salad for contrast and complementary flavors.
Storage and reheating tips
To keep your Strawberry Earthquake Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last up to a week, but you may find it disappears much faster! If you want to take it on the go, a slice can be easily reheated in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, allowing the gooey center to come back to life. You can also freeze leftovers; just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. When ready to enjoy again, let it thaw overnight in the fridge.
Helpful cooking tips
- Make sure your cream cheese and butter are at room temperature for a smoother mixture.
- If you want an extra dimension of flavor, consider adding a pinch of salt to your cream cheese mixture.
- Feel free to switch up the fruits; raspberries, blueberries, or even peaches can add delightful variations!
Creative twists
Feeling adventurous? Here are some ideas to mix it up:
- Swap the strawberry cake mix for lemon or chocolate for a fun twist.
- Add a splash of almond extract to the cream cheese mixture for a nutty undertone.
- Replace the shredded coconut with crushed Oreos for a cookies-and-cream inspired version.
FAQs
What’s the prep time for this recipe?
You’ll need around 15 minutes to gather ingredients and mix them.
Can I use other types of cake mix for this?
Absolutely! Vanilla, chocolate, or even lemon cake mixes can work wonderfully. Just be sure the flavors complement your add-ins.
How do I know when the cake is done?
It should be golden brown on top and set in the center while maintaining that signature gooey middle. A toothpick inserted should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter.
Is it safe to eat after being left out overnight?
If the cake has been left out at room temperature for more than two hours, it’s safer to discard it. Always store leftovers in the refrigerator.
Indulge in this heavenly Strawberry Earthquake Cake, share it with loved ones, and you’ll soon see why it earns its delightful name!
