Name: Strawberry Earthquake Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 box (15.25 ounces) strawberry cake mix; 3 large eggs (room temperature); 1 cup water; ½ cup vegetable oil; 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese (softened); ½ cup unsalted butter (melted); 2 ½ cups confectioners’ sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; ¼ teaspoon kosher salt; 1 cup diced strawberries (plus extra for garnish); 2 cups white chocolate chips; Vanilla ice cream (optional for serving)

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Have you ever wondered how a single dessert can encapsulate the flavors of summer in every bite? The Strawberry Earthquake Cake does just that — and more! Bursting with rich strawberry flavor and creamy textures, this cake twists your expectations and leaves you craving more. Did you know that adding strawberries not only enriches the taste but also boosts the nutritional profile of your dessert? Let’s unveil how to create this delicious treat that dazzles both the eyes and the taste buds.

Ingredients Needed

To create the ultimate Strawberry Earthquake Cake, gather the following ingredients, which not only add flavor but also texture and color to your dessert:

1 box (15.25 ounces) strawberry cake mix: The base of our cake, providing a sweet and fruity flavor.
3 large eggs (room temperature): Essential for binding, moisture, and a fluffy texture.
1 cup water: Activates the cake mix and adds moisture.
½ cup vegetable oil: Adds richness and helps keep the cake moist.
1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese (softened): Provides a creamy, tangy filling that balances sweetness.
½ cup unsalted butter (melted): For richness; unsalted helps control the sweetness.
2 ½ cups confectioners’ sugar: Essential for creating a decadent, creamy topping.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: A must-have for enhancing overall flavor depth.
¼ teaspoon kosher salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
1 cup diced strawberries (plus extra for garnish): Fresh, juicy strawberries add a burst of flavor.
2 cups white chocolate chips: For a sweet, creamy contrast to the tartness.
Vanilla ice cream (optional for serving): A perfect pairing!

Timing

When planning to bake your Strawberry Earthquake Cake, expect a total time of about 90 minutes. This includes 15 minutes for preparation and 30-35 minutes of baking, topped with an additional 15-20 minutes of finishing bake time. This is approximately 20% less time than traditional layered cakes, making it a quick yet impressive dessert option!

How to Make Strawberry Earthquake Cake

Here’s how to craft your very own Strawberry Earthquake Cake in easy-to-follow steps:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan with non-stick spray or butter to ensure easy removal later.

Step 2: Prepare the Batter

In a mixing bowl, combine the strawberry cake mix, eggs, water, and vegetable oil. Mix until smooth, ensuring no lumps remain. This will be your cake’s foundation!

Step 3: Bake the Base

Pour the batter into your prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. This is where the magic begins to happen!

Step 4: Make the Cream Cheese Mixture

While the cake is baking, beat together the softened cream cheese and melted butter until creamy. Gradually add in the confectioners’ sugar, vanilla extract, and kosher salt until combined and smooth.

Step 5: Add Strawberries and White Chocolate

After the cake has baked, remove it from the oven. Sprinkle the diced strawberries and white chocolate chips over the top. Then, spoon dollops of the cream cheese mixture over everything.

Step 6: Final Bake

Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes until the topping is set. The combination of flavors will truly be an earthquake of delight!

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Allow the cake to cool for at least 30 minutes before cutting into squares. This cooling time helps the layers meld together beautifully.

Nutritional Information

Understanding the nutritional content can help you enjoy your dessert more mindfully. Each slice (based on 12 servings) contains approximately:

Calories: 350
Protein: 4g
Carbohydrates: 55g
Fat: 15g
Sugar: 30g

Depending on your dietary goals, these figures can provide insight into your dessert indulgence!

Healthier Alternatives For Strawberry Earthquake Cake

To make your Strawberry Earthquake Cake a tad healthier, consider the following alternatives:

Cake Mix: Opt for a low-sugar or organic cake mix.
Vegetable Oil: Replace with unsweetened applesauce for less fat.
Cream Cheese: Use a low-fat or Greek yogurt-based cream cheese, maintaining that creamy texture without the extra calories.
White Chocolate Chips: Consider substituting with dark chocolate chips for added antioxidants.
Diced Strawberries: Incorporate any seasonal fruit to diversify flavors.

Serving Suggestions

Transform your cake into a delightful experience with these serving ideas:

Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic touch.
Pair with freshly whipped cream and a sprinkle of mint for added freshness.
Drizzle a bit of chocolate syrup for decadent flair.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

To ensure your Strawberry Earthquake Cake turns out perfectly, avoid these typical pitfalls:

Not measuring ingredients: Precision is essential in baking.
Skipping the cooling time: This allows the layers to set and makes for easier slicing.
Overbaking: Keep an eye on your baking time, as ovens can vary.

Storing Tips For Strawberry Earthquake Cake

For optimal freshness:

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freeze slices for longer storage, wrapping them individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. Enjoy within 2 months!

Conclusion

Now that you’ve mastered the art of the Strawberry Earthquake Cake, the world of delightful desserts is at your fingertips. With rich flavors and a tantalizing texture, this recipe promises to impress everyone at your next gathering. Try making this treat today and let us know how it turned out! Don’t forget to share your experience or explore our other delightful recipes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I use instead of cream cheese?

Feel free to substitute low-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt for a healthier option.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cake a day in advance and frost it on the day of serving.

How do I store leftover cake?

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days.

Can I add other fruits?

Absolutely! Raspberries, blueberries, or even chopped bananas would make excellent additions.

Is this recipe suitable for a vegan diet?

To adapt it for a vegan diet, you can replace the eggs with flaxseed or applesauce and use a vegan cake mix and dairy-free cream cheese.

Now that you have the complete guide to your very own Strawberry Earthquake Cake, happy baking!