Strawberry Earthquake Cake Delight

This strawberry earthquake cake delight combines fruity freshness with creamy, gooey textures that make it a dessert to remember. The blend of bright strawberries, silky cream cheese swirl, crunchy coconut, and melting white chocolate chips creates a luscious bite every time. It’s a perfect choice for berry lovers looking to impress without fuss.

I first made this for a family gathering and it vanished in minutes. It has since become my go-to dessert for potlucks and celebrations.

Ingredients

• Strawberry cake mix with the required eggs, oil, and water as per package instructions: provides a reliable and moist base
• Fresh or frozen strawberries chopped finely: choose ripe ones for maximum sweetness or frozen if fresh are out of season
• White chocolate chips or chunks: melts into creamy pockets, adding sweetness and softness
• Sweetened shredded coconut: gives a chewy contrast and tropical note, be sure to pick unsprayed, fresh coconut if possible
• Chopped pecans or walnuts optional: toasted for a toasty crunch, select fresh nuts without any rancid smell
• Cream cheese softened for smooth blending: using full fat makes the swirl creamy and rich
• Unsalted butter softened: balances the tang of cream cheese and adds silkiness
• Powdered sugar: for sweetness and smooth texture in the swirl
• Vanilla extract: for aromatic depth and subtle warmth

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease a 9 by 13 inch baking dish thoroughly with butter or spray to ensure the cake won’t stick.

Prepare the Cake Batter:

Mix the strawberry cake mix with eggs, oil, and water exactly as the package directs. Pour this mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula.

Add the Mix-ins:

Scatter the chopped strawberries, white chocolate chips, shredded coconut, and nuts evenly over the cake batter. This distributes flavor pockets throughout the cake.

Make the Cream Cheese Swirl:

In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter together until smooth and creamy using an electric mixer or whisk. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract and continue mixing until everything is fully combined with no lumps.

Create the Swirl:

Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the cake batter’s surface. Using a knife or skewer, gently swirl the cream cheese into the batter in a marbled pattern. Do not overmix or it will blend completely and lose the swirl effect.

Bake the Cake:

Place the pan in the oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes or until the top turns golden brown and the center is just set but still slightly gooey. The edges may pull away slightly from the pan to signal readiness.

Cool and Serve:

Let the cake cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes so the cream cheese swirl firms up. You can serve it warm or chill it depending on your preference. Slice into 16 squares and enjoy.

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Storage Tips

Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Before serving again, bring to room temperature or warm slightly for the best texture. You can freeze leftover portions wrapped well in plastic wrap and foil for up to two months.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you cannot find strawberry cake mix, a yellow or vanilla cake mix will do well paired with an extra cup of chopped strawberries. Substitute mascarpone for cream cheese for a softer swirl or use maple syrup with coconut sugar as a powdered sugar alternative in the cream cheese mixture.

Serving Suggestions

Pair slices with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent dessert. Garnish with fresh mint leaves or additional fresh strawberries for a pretty presentation. This cake makes a showstopping summer dessert for birthdays or barbecue feasts.

Cultural Context

Strawberry cake has been a popular summer dessert in American households for decades, often associated with church gatherings and family celebrations. The cream cheese swirl adds a modern twist, inspired by New York-style cheesecakes that highlight tangy sweetness and creamy textures.

Recipe FAQs

→ What adds moisture to the cake?

Chopped strawberries and the cream cheese swirl blend into the batter, providing moisture and a soft texture.

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, fresh or frozen strawberries work well. Just ensure frozen berries are chopped and drained to prevent excess moisture.

→ How do I create the swirl effect?

Spoon the cream cheese mixture over the batter and use a knife to gently swirl it through without overmixing.

→ What nuts are recommended?

Pecans or walnuts add a pleasant crunch and subtle flavor, but they can be omitted if preferred.

→ Should the cake be served warm or cold?

Both ways are enjoyable. Serving warm highlights the gooey cream cheese, while chilling firms the texture for neat slices.

→ What baking dish is ideal?

A 9x13-inch baking dish ensures even baking and enough surface area for the swirl and toppings.