Strawberry Earthquake Cake Recipe: A Scrumptious Dessert Delight
Okay, friends, get ready for this one. What is the recipe for the Strawberry Earthquake Cake? I think of it as the easier, even more fun cousin of a strawberry cheesecake. What are the pockets of strawberry goodness? Every bite is a little adventure. I’ve never met a person who doesn’t fall head over heels for this thing. My grandma used to make a similar version with cherries, but this strawberry rendition? It’s next level. And you barely need any baking experience to nail it. Even if you’re like me and sometimes burn water, you can pull this off with flying colors! What is a strawberry Earthquake Cake recipe?
What is a strawberry earthquake cake?
What is a strawberry Earthquake Cake? What is essentially a white or yellow cake batter swirled with creamy, almost cheesecake-like frosting? Is it good to serve a filling, and then studded with fresh strawberries? What happens in the oven? As it bakes, the cream cheese filling “quakes” and cracks. This creates a marbled effect throughout the recipe. It’s less about perfect, uniform slices and more about delightful pockets of creamy, buttery cheese. What is strawberry-infused I love that it’s not fussy – there’s no need for perfectly smooth frosting or fancy decorations. Is this rustic, comforting, and undeniably delicious? Don’t worry if it looks a little wonky coming out of the oven; that’s part of its charm. How can something so simple be so satisfying?
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Where do I even begin? What I love most about this Strawberry Earthquake Cake Recipe is its pure, unadulterated deliciousness. But beyond that, here are a few more reasons why you absolutely NEED this recipe in your life:
- Flavor Explosion:The combination of the soft, slightly tangy cream cheese filling with the sweet and juicy ham. What are some good reasons to eat strawberries? Is strawberry cheesecake a baby?
- Easy Peasy:Is this recipe shockingly simple? No fancy equipment or complicated techniques required. What are some good beginner bake recipes?
- Budget friendly You probably have most of the ingredients in your pantry already. Cream cheese, butter, sugar, cake mix, eggs, and some strawberries – that’s pretty much it. It’s a great way to impress without breaking the bank.
- Versatile DelightWhat are some good ways to serve this as a dessert? Can you serve it warm or cold, with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream? Is it a winner any time of the day? I tested this with gluten-free cake mix for my sister and it still turned out amazing!
What are some of the best desserts that are easy to make? What is a Strawberry Earthquake Cake recipe?
How do you make a strawberry earthquake cake?
Quick Overview
Making this Strawberry Earthquake Cake is honestly a breeze. You’ll start by prepping the cake batter, whipping up the cream cheese filling, and dicing those gorgeous strawberries. Then comes the fun part: layering and swirling everything together in the pan. Pop it in the oven, and watch the magic happen as the filling creates those signature cracks. It’s way easier than it looks, and the result is a showstopper that everyone will rave about. This method is particularly great because it’s so forgiving. Even if your swirls aren’t perfect, it will still taste amazing!
Ingredients Notes
For the Main Batter: What is the significance of
- I always use a good quality yellow cake mix. Makes ‘a difference’!
- 1 cup sour cream: Adds moisture and a little tang. Don’t skip it!
- ½ cup vegetable oil: Keeps the cake nice and tender.
- 4 large eggs: Provides structure and richness.
- 12 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor.
For the Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened: Full-fat is best for the creamiest results.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the filling.
- How do you bind eggs together?
- 12 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a touch of flavor.
- 1 pint fresh strawberries, diced: The star of the show! Make sure they’re sweet and ripe.
For the Glaze:
- 2 cups powdered sugar: Provides sweetness and structure.
- ¼ cup milk: Adjust to reach desired consistency. I sometimes use a splash of lemon juice too!
- 12 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a touch of flavor.
How do I follow
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan. I always line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal. It’s a game-changer! How do I clean a cake? Get it done early so you’re ready to go when the batter is ready.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, sour cream, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Set aside. Beat with an electric mixer until well combined. Be careful not to overmix. Just mix until everything is incorporated. The batter should be smooth and creamy. Don’t worry if there are a few tiny lumps.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Set aside. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, and beat until well combined. Do not overmix. Just make sure everything is nicely incorporated. The filling should be light and airy.
Step 4: Combine
Pour half of cake batter into the prepared baking pan. Dollop spoonfuls of the cream cheese filling over the cake batter. Do not overcook strawberries with cream cheese. Sprinkle evenly over the filling. Is it necessary to pour the remaining cake batter over the strawberries?
Step 5: Prepare Filling
Make sure cream cheese is softened to room temperature otherwise you will get clumps in the filling. Does it take a long time to work out? I have learned this the hard way. Do you believe me?
Step 6: Layer & Swirl
How do you swirl the cream cheese filling and strawberries into the cake batter? Don’t over-swirl; you want to keep some distinct pockets of filling and strawberries. What creates the Earthquake effect? I usually go back and add a few more strawberry chunks on top because they always look so pretty. I like to do this.
Step 7: Bake
Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. How do I make a golden brown cake? How long does it take to bake a cake? I rotate the pan halfway through to ensure even baking.
Step 8: Cool & Glaze
Let the cake cool completely in the pan before glazing. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. Set aside. How much milk do you need to make a glaze on cooled cake? I like to add glaze when the cake is completely cooled because then the glaze won’t melt into the cupcake.
Step 9: Slice & Serve
Slice the cake into squares and serve. Can you serve it warm or cold, with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream? Is it delicious on its own?
What to Serve It With
This Strawberry Earthquake Cake is pretty fantastic on its own, but if you want to take it to the next level, here are a few serving suggestions:
For Breakfast: A slice of this cake pairs perfectly with a cup of strong coffee or a latte. It’s a sweet and satisfying way to start your day!
For Brunch: Serve it alongside other brunch favorites like scrambled eggs, bacon, and fresh fruit. It adds a touch of sweetness to the savory spread. I love serving this at brunch because it makes a beautiful presentation.
As Dessert: After dinner, serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. A drizzle of chocolate sauce would also be amazing.
For Cozy Snacks: Enjoy a slice with a glass of milk or a cup of tea on a cozy afternoon. It’s the perfect comfort food. My kids love this after school with a glass of milk.
I have a family tradition of serving this cake with homemade strawberry lemonade in the summer. It’s the perfect combination!
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Strawberry Earthquake Cake
Here are some tips and tricks to help you make the perfect Strawberry Earthquake Cake:
Mixing Advice: Be careful not to overmix the cake batter or the cream cheese filling. Overmixing can result in a tough cake. Just mix until the ingredients are combined.
Strawberry Selection: Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor. If your strawberries are not very sweet, you can add a little sugar to them before adding them to the cake.
Swirl Customization: Don’t over-swirl the cake batter. You want to keep some distinct pockets of filling and strawberries. The swirling is what creates that signature “earthquake” effect.
Ingredient Swaps: You can substitute other fruits for the strawberries, such as blueberries, raspberries, or peaches. You can also use different extracts, such as almond or lemon extract, to change the flavor of the cake.
Baking Tips: Keep a close eye on the cake while it’s baking, as baking times can vary depending on your oven. If the cake starts to brown too quickly, you can tent it with foil.
Glaze Variations: You can add different flavors to the glaze, such as lemon juice, vanilla extract, or almond extract. You can also use different types of milk, such as almond milk or soy milk. For a thicker glaze, use less milk; for a thinner glaze, use more milk.
I learned after my first attempt to really soften the cream cheese. My mom always says “Soft cream cheese equals success”. Truer words have never been spoken!
Storing and Reheating Tips
Here’s how to store your Strawberry Earthquake Cake to keep it fresh and delicious:
Room Temperature: You can store the cake at room temperature for up to 2 days. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out.
Refrigerator Storage: You can store the cake in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Store it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out.
Freezer Instructions: You can freeze the cake for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Glaze Timing Advice: If you’re planning to freeze the cake, it’s best to add the glaze after it has thawed. This will prevent the glaze from becoming soggy.
I usually store mine in the fridge because I like it cold, but it’s honestly great any way. The key is keeping it airtight so it doesn’t dry out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So there you have it – my go-to Strawberry Earthquake Cake Recipe! It’s a recipe I’ve made countless times, and it always brings smiles to everyone’s faces. It’s the perfect combination of flavors and textures, and it’s so easy to make. If you’re looking for a dessert that’s sure to impress, this is it. And if you’re craving something a little different, why not try my blueberry crumble bars? They’re another family favorite! Happy baking, and I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Don’t forget to rate this recipe and share your own variations in the comments below!
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Strawberry Earthquake Cake Recipe: A Scrumptious Dessert Delight
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 box white cake mix around 15.25 oz
- 1 cup strawberries fresh, sliced
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- 1 cup shredded coconut
- 1 cup white chocolate chips
- 1 stick butter melted
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.
- Spread the strawberries evenly on the bottom of the prepared pan.
- Sprinkle the shredded coconut and white chocolate chips over the strawberries.
- In a bowl, prepare the white cake mix according to the package instructions and pour it over the strawberries, coconut, and chocolate.
- In another bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth, then spoon dollops of this mixture over the cake batter.
- Gently swirl the cream cheese mixture into the cake batter using a knife.
- Bake for 50 minutes or until the cake is set and a toothpick comes out clean from the center.
- Allow the cake to cool before serving.
Notes
If you try this recipe, please leave a comment and rating below. I love to hear from you and always appreciate your feedback!
