Who doesn’t love a dessert that’s as fun to make as it is to eat? Our Strawberry Earthquake Cake is a delightful twist on the classic, combining the sweet, fruity flavor of strawberries with the light, fluffy texture of white cake mix. The “earthquake” effect comes from the way the layers bake into a beautifully messy, marbled masterpiece—no two slices look the same!
Strawberry Earthquake Cake Recipe With White Cake Mix
Follow these steps to create the visually stunning and delicious Strawberry Earthquake Cake using a white cake mix. This easy-to-make dessert will yield a moist, marbled masterpiece with vibrant strawberry flavors that are irresistible.
Ingredients
Here’s what we’ll need to whip up this dessert. Make sure to gather all the ingredients before starting:
- 1 box white cake mix (15.25 oz) – Prepare as per box instructions (usually requires eggs, oil, and water)
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced thinly
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Cooking spray or parchment paper (for pan prep)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Baking Pan
Spray a 9×13-inch baking pan evenly with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper for easy removal. Sprinkle the bottom of the pan with shredded coconut and chopped pecans, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
2. Mix the Cake Batter
Prepare the white cake mix according to the package instructions. Most mixes require combining the mix with eggs, water, and oil. Once mixed, set the batter aside.
3. Layer the Strawberries
Arrange the thinly sliced fresh strawberries on top of the shredded coconut and pecans layer in the baking pan. Spread them out evenly to ensure every slice gets a burst of fruitiness.
4. Combine the Cream Cheese Mixture
In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the melted butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined. The mixture should be thick and creamy.
5. Assemble the Cake
Pour the prepared white cake batter over the strawberries in the baking pan, spreading it evenly. Then, spoon dollops of the cream cheese mixture over the top of the cake batter. Use a knife to gently swirl the cream cheese mixture into the batter, creating a marbled effect.
6. Bake the Cake
Place the pan in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is golden-brown and set. The “earthquake” effect will occur during baking as the cream cheese mixture sinks into the batter, forming cracks and delicious pockets.
7. Cool and Serve
Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool completely in the pan to avoid breaking apart. Once cooled, cut into squares or rectangles and serve. Pair it with a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence.
Baking Time and Temperature Reference Table
| Oven Temperature | Baking Time |
|---|---|
| 350°F (175°C) | 40–45 minutes |
Ingredients
Here’s everything we need to create this delicious Strawberry Earthquake Cake. Make sure to measure accurately and prepare as noted below for the best results.
For the Cake Base:
- 1 box white cake mix (15.25 oz)
- 1 cup water
- 3 large egg whites (room temperature)
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
For the Bottom Layer:
- 1 cup shredded sweetened coconut
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
Strawberry Layer:
- 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
Cream Cheese Mixture:
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
- 2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Toppings:
- Whipped cream for serving
- Additional sliced strawberries for garnish
Tools Needed:
Here’s a quick overview of the kitchen tools that make this recipe a breeze:
- 13×9-inch baking dish
- Mixing bowls (at least two)
- Electric mixer or handheld whisk
- Rubber spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Tools And Equipment
When preparing our Strawberry Earthquake Cake with a white cake mix, having the right tools and equipment ensures a smooth baking experience. Here’s a detailed list of what we need to create this visually stunning and luscious dessert.
Essential Tools
- 9×13-inch Baking Dish: Provides the perfect depth and size for layering and allows the “earthquake” effect to shine.
- Mixing Bowls (at least 2): One for the cream cheese mixture and another for the cake batter. Go for medium and large sizes.
- Electric Mixer: A hand or stand mixer works perfectly for blending the cream cheese and butter mixture to a smooth, creamy consistency.
- Whisk: Handy for mixing the cake batter evenly and lump-free if you’re doing it manually.
- Spatula: Ideal for spreading layers like shredded coconut, batter, and strawberries evenly.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensures precise measurements for the dry and wet ingredients, crucial for the recipe’s success.
- Chopping Board and Knife: Essential for slicing fresh strawberries into thin, beautiful pieces.
- Oven Mitts: For safe handling of the baking dish when placing it in or removing it from the oven.
- Cooling Rack: Allows even airflow to cool the cake after baking without making it soggy.
Optional but Helpful Equipment
- Parchment Paper: Lining the baking dish can make cleanup easier and helps release the cake effortlessly.
- Pastry Cutter or Fork: Can work in place of a food processor for evenly crumbling toppings if you decide to customize.
- Offset Spatula: Useful for achieving smooth, evenly distributed layers.
At A Glance Tools Overview
To keep things simpler, here’s a quick-hit summary in table format:
| Tool/Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| 9×13-inch Baking Dish | For baking and achieving the signature marbled effect. |
| Mixing Bowls | Mixing batter and cream cheese layers separately. |
| Electric Mixer | Ensures smooth and fluffy cream cheese consistency. |
| Whisk | For manual mixing of white cake batter. |
| Spatula | For evenly spreading layers and scraping bowls. |
| Measuring Cups & Spoons | Accurate ingredient measurements. |
| Chopping Board & Knife | Slicing fresh strawberries. |
| Cooling Rack | Cools cake evenly after baking. |
By preparing this arsenal of tools before we start baking, we set ourselves up for success. With these, every layer of this Strawberry Earthquake Cake will come together seamlessly for a dessert that’s both visually irresistible and delectable.
Directions
This Strawberry Earthquake Cake is as fun to make as it is to eat. Follow these step-by-step instructions to create a marbled, moist, and irresistible dessert.
Prep
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish generously with butter or non-stick spray to ensure easy removal of the cake.
- Gather all the ingredients and tools, ensuring everything is within reach for a smooth baking experience.
- Rinse the fresh strawberries under cool water, pat them dry with a paper towel, and slice them into thin, even pieces. Set aside.
Tip: Lining the baking dish with parchment paper can help lift the cake out easily if desired.
Preparing The Strawberry Mixture
- Place the sliced fresh strawberries into a mixing bowl. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of sugar over the strawberries to lightly sweeten them.
- Toss the strawberries gently so they’re evenly coated. Allow them to sit for about 10 minutes to release their natural juices.
- While the strawberries are macerating, prepare the other components of the cake.
Pro Tip: Using fresh, ripe strawberries will result in the sweetest flavor and vibrant color.
Assembling The Cake
- Layer the base: Spread 1 cup of shredded coconut evenly over the bottom of the greased baking dish. Then, sprinkle 1/2 cup of chopped pecans on top of the coconut for a nutty crunch.
- Prepare the cake batter: In a large bowl, combine the white cake mix with the specified amounts of water, egg whites, and vegetable oil (check the cake mix package for proportions). Mix until smooth and lump-free. Pour the batter over the coconut and pecans, ensuring it covers the bottom layer completely.
- Add the strawberries: Using a spoon, scatter the macerated strawberries over the cake batter. Avoid pouring any excess liquid from the strawberries to prevent the cake from becoming soggy.
- Cream cheese topping: In a separate mixing bowl, beat 1 (8-ounce) block of cream cheese, 1/2 cup of softened butter, and 3 cups of powdered sugar with 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until creamy and fluffy. Drop dollops of this mixture across the top of the strawberries and gently swirl with a skewer or butter knife to create a marbled effect.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 40-45 minutes until the cake is golden brown on top and set in the center. You may notice cracks forming on the surface—this is the signature earthquake effect!
- Cool and serve: Allow the cake to cool in the dish for 20-30 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature with a dollop of whipped cream and extra sliced strawberries, if desired.
| Step | Time Required | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Prep the strawberries | 10 minutes | Use ripe, fresh strawberries for best flavor. |
| Mix the cake batter | 5 minutes | Ensure batter is smooth without lumps. |
| Assemble and bake the cake | 40-45 minutes | Swirl cream cheese gently for a marbled look. |
Serving Suggestion: For extra indulgence, drizzle melted chocolate or strawberry sauce over each slice before serving.
Instructions
Follow this step-by-step guide to create the Strawberry Earthquake Cake that packs a punch of flavors and stunning marbled visuals. Let’s break down each stage to ensure your cake turns out moist, creamy, and delicious.
Mixing The White Cake Batter
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the white cake mix (as per the package instructions) with the following ingredients:
- 1 cup water
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large egg whites
- Use an electric mixer to blend the mixture on low speed for 30 seconds, then increase to medium speed and mix for an additional 2 minutes until the batter is lump-free and smooth. Make sure to scrape the sides of the bowl as needed.
- Set the batter aside while we prepare the next layers.
Layering The Cake
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and sprinkle an even layer of shredded coconut (1 cup) at the bottom, followed by 3/4 cup of chopped pecans.
- Scatter 1 1/2 cups of sliced fresh strawberries evenly over the coconut and pecan layer. This fruity burst forms the base of the earthquake effect.
- Gently pour the prepared white cake batter on top, spreading it evenly across the dish using a spatula. Avoid disturbing the organized layers but don’t worry if they mix slightly—it adds to the signature marbled look.
Adding The Cream Cheese Swirl
- In another mixing bowl, combine:
- 1 block (8 oz) softened cream cheese
- 1/2 cup softened unsalted butter
- 2 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Blend the mixture using an electric mixer on medium-high speed until smooth, creamy, and fluffy.
- Spoon dollops of this cream cheese mixture over the cake batter. Use a knife or skewer to swirl the cream cheese mixture gently through the batter. Be careful not to overmix, as the idea is to create rich, marbled streaks throughout the cake.
Baking The Cake
- Place your baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the cake is golden brown, and the edges begin to pull away from the dish. The center will appear slightly jiggly due to the creamy layers.
- Remove the cake from the oven and cool it in the pan on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes before slicing. This will allow the layers to set properly.
- For an extra touch, drizzle melted chocolate or strawberry sauce over individual pieces when serving. Optionally, garnish with whipped cream and additional fresh strawberries for a show-stopping presentation.
Baking Tips Table
| Tip | Details |
|---|---|
| Use ripe strawberries | Choose red, sweet, and aromatic strawberries for the best flavor. |
| Smooth cream cheese mix | Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps in the swirl. |
| Watch baking time | Do not overbake; the center staying slightly jiggly is key to its texture. |
Make-Ahead Instructions
When it comes to desserts like a Strawberry Earthquake Cake, planning ahead can simplify preparation and ensure you’re ready for any occasion. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help make this recipe in advance without compromising the cake’s moist texture or vibrant flavor.
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Layers Separately
To maintain the freshness and visual appeal, we recommend preparing the components ahead of time:
- Cake batter: Mix the white cake batter as instructed, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
- Cream cheese mixture: Combine the cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Store in a separate airtight container in the fridge.
- Coconut, pecans, and strawberries: Measure and prep these in advance. Chop the pecans and slice the strawberries, then store each ingredient in resealable bags or containers. Keep strawberries refrigerated to maintain freshness.
Step 2: Assemble Before Baking
Since this cake’s charm lies in its marbled layers and fresh ingredients, it’s best to assemble the cake just before baking:
- Remove all prepped components from the fridge 30 minutes prior to assembling to let them come to room temperature.
- Follow the layering and swirling instructions outlined in the recipe.
Step 3: Bake and Cool in Advance
If you need to bake the cake ahead of time, you can do so up to 24 hours in advance.
- After baking, let the cake cool completely in the pan.
- Wrap the entire pan tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to lock in moisture.
- Store at room temperature if serving within 24 hours or refrigerate for extended storage.
Pro Tip: Avoid slicing the cake until ready to serve to preserve its distinctive “earthquake” appearance.
Storage Table
| Component | Storage Method | Maximum Storage Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| White cake batter | Airtight container, refrigerated | 24 hours | Stir gently before using. |
| Cream cheese mixture | Airtight container, refrigerated | 24 hours | Soften at room temp before spreading. |
| Chopped pecans & coconut | Resealable bags, room temp | 2 days | Store separately to avoid mixed textures. |
| Sliced strawberries | Airtight container, refrigerated | 24 hours | Use fresh for best results. |
| Fully baked Earthquake Cake | Covered pan, room temp or refrigerate | 24-48 hours | Bring to room temp before serving. |
Freezing Option
To freeze your Strawberry Earthquake Cake, bake and cool the cake completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and a layer of aluminum foil. You can store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. Simply thaw overnight in the fridge before serving and top with fresh strawberries or optional garnishes.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to enjoying our Strawberry Earthquake Cake, there are countless ways to elevate its flavors and presentation. Below, we’ve curated a list of creative and indulgent serving ideas to ensure every slice is a showstopper.
1. Classic Pairings
- Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of freshly whipped cream to each slice for a creamy contrast to the cake’s sweet, tangy flavors.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve warm slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream that melts over the cracks and layers for a luscious treat.
- Powdered Sugar Dusting: Lightly sift powdered sugar over the top for an elegant finish.
2. Fresh Toppings
- Strawberries: Arrange thinly sliced fresh strawberries on top or alongside the cake for a vibrant, fruity garnish.
- Mint Leaves: Add a sprig of mint for a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
- Berry Medley: Create a mix of raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries to complement the strawberry flavors.
3. Indulgent Drizzles
Elevate the cake with drizzles of:
- Chocolate Syrup: Add a rich, decadent chocolate touch for chocoholics.
- Strawberry Sauce: Boost the fruity flavors with a layer of homemade or store-bought strawberry sauce, letting it cascade over the cake’s edges.
- Caramel Sauce: For a sweet and buttery flavor, drizzle a thin line of caramel over each plate.
4. Beverage Pairings
The perfect drink enhances the dessert experience. Here are our favorite pairings:
| Beverage Choices | Best For |
|---|---|
| Sparkling White Wine | Balances the cake’s sweetness with crisp, bubbly notes |
| Strawberry Lemonade | Complements the fresh strawberry tang |
| Hot Coffee or Espresso | Contrasts the sweetness for a balanced, comforting taste |
| Iced Tea (Sweet or Unsweetened) | A refreshing and light option, perfect for summery servings. |
5. Occasion-Based Style
- Birthday Celebrations: Add colorful sprinkles or strawberry-shaped cake toppers for a festive touch.
- Brunch Gatherings: Serve it with a side of Greek yogurt and honey for a lighter, breakfast-friendly option.
- Holiday Events: Present with red-and-green garnishes like candied cherries or rosemary sprigs for a seasonal appeal.
Conclusion
Strawberry Earthquake Cake is more than just a dessert—it’s a flavorful centerpiece that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. Its vibrant layers and irresistible taste make it perfect for any gathering or special occasion. With simple ingredients, easy preparation, and endless serving options, this cake is sure to impress every time.
Whether you’re enjoying it fresh out of the oven or after freezing for later, this recipe guarantees a moist, delicious treat your family and friends will love. Let’s make every slice unforgettable!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Strawberry Earthquake Cake?
Strawberry Earthquake Cake is a delicious dessert combining a white cake mix with layers of fresh strawberries, coconut, pecans, and cream cheese. The unique “earthquake” effect creates a marbled look, making it both tasty and visually stunning.
What makes the “earthquake” effect in this cake?
The “earthquake” effect happens as the cream cheese mixture bubbles through the layers during baking, creating a marbled and cracked appearance on the surface of the cake.
Can I make the Strawberry Earthquake Cake ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the batter, cream cheese mixture, and toppings separately, storing them in the fridge. Assemble and bake just before serving to ensure freshness and maintain the marbled effect.
How should I store the Strawberry Earthquake Cake?
Store the fully baked cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months.
What toppings go well with Strawberry Earthquake Cake?
This cake pairs wonderfully with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, chocolate syrup, or caramel drizzle. Fresh fruit like sliced strawberries or mint leaves adds a refreshing touch.
Can I freeze this cake?
Yes! Allow the fully baked cake to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. It can be stored for up to two months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
What occasions are ideal for this cake?
Strawberry Earthquake Cake is perfect for birthdays, holidays, and festive gatherings. You can add decorative touches like seasonal fruit garnishes or colorful whipped cream swirls to suit the occasion.
What tools are needed to make the Strawberry Earthquake Cake?
Key tools include a baking dish, an electric mixer, mixing bowls, and a spatula. These are essential for preparing and assembling the layers.
Can I substitute ingredients in the recipe?
Yes, you can customize the recipe. For example, substitute almonds for pecans or use frozen strawberries if fresh ones are unavailable. Opt for gluten-free cake mix if needed.
What drinks pair well with Strawberry Earthquake Cake?
Pair it with sparkling white wine, a hot cup of coffee, or refreshing iced tea. These beverages complement the cake’s sweet and tangy flavors beautifully.