Strawberry Earthquake Cake is a fun and delicious dessert that’s sure to impress! This moist strawberry cake features a rich cream cheese layer that creates a marbled, “earthquake” effect as it bakes. The addition of fresh strawberries adds a burst of fruity sweetness, and the optional toppings of sliced almonds and chocolate chips take it to the next level. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just craving a sweet treat, this cake is the perfect way to satisfy your dessert cravings.
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 1 box (15.25 oz) strawberry cake mix
- 1 cup water
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped (or frozen, thawed and drained)
For the Cream Cheese Layer:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Topping:
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds (optional)
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips or white chocolate chips (optional)
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent the cake from sticking.
2. Prepare the Cake Batter:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the strawberry cake mix, water, vegetable oil, and eggs. Stir the mixture until smooth and fully incorporated.
- Gently fold in the chopped fresh strawberries (or thawed, drained frozen strawberries) to add extra flavor and texture to the cake.
3. Bake the Cake:
- Pour the prepared cake batter into the greased baking dish and spread it evenly.
- Bake the cake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The center of the cake will not be fully cooked at this point, but that’s okay since it will bake further with the cream cheese layer.
4. Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer:
- While the cake is baking, prepare the cream cheese layer. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth and creamy.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is fully combined into a smooth mixture.
5. Add the Cream Cheese Layer:
- After the cake has baked for 30 minutes, remove it from the oven (the center will still be soft).
- Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the partially baked cake. Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the cream cheese mixture into the cake batter. Be sure not to fully mix it; you want to leave it marbled for that signature “earthquake” effect.
6. Finish Baking:
- Return the cake to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the cream cheese layer is set and a toothpick inserted into the cake comes out clean. The center should be fully cooked by now.
7. Add Toppings (Optional):
- During the last 5-10 minutes of baking, you can sprinkle sliced almonds and/or chocolate chips on top of the cake for extra flavor and texture.
- Once the cake is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool completely in the baking dish.
8. Cool and Serve:
- Once the cake has cooled, dust with powdered sugar before serving, if desired. Cut into squares and enjoy this delightful strawberry-filled treat!
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 55 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 12
Calories: Approximately 280 per serving
This Strawberry Earthquake Cake is a showstopper with its layers of cake, cream cheese, and fresh strawberries. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a party, bringing a dessert to a gathering, or just treating yourself to something sweet. Enjoy every bite of this irresistible, fun, and fruity cake!
