Why Make This Recipe
Strawberry Earthquake Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the rich flavors of chocolate with the fresh, sweetness of strawberries. This cake not only looks amazing but also tastes divine, making it perfect for gatherings, parties, or even a simple family treat. It’s easy to make and offers a fun twist on traditional cake recipes.
How to Make Strawberry Earthquake Cake
Ingredients:
- 1 box chocolate cake mix
- 1 cup water
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, water, vegetable oil, and eggs. Mix until smooth.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish.
- In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar until smooth.
- Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the cake batter.
- Sprinkle the chopped strawberries, coconut, and nuts on top of the batter.
- Use a knife to swirl the cream cheese mixture gently through the batter to create a marble effect.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool before serving.
How to Serve Strawberry Earthquake Cake
Serve this cake warm or at room temperature. You can enjoy it as is, or add a dollop of whipped cream on top for extra indulgence. Fresh strawberries can also make a lovely garnish.
How to Store Strawberry Earthquake Cake
To store the leftover cake, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to a week. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to three months. Just make sure to wrap it well to avoid freezer burn.
Tips to Make Strawberry Earthquake Cake
- Use ripe, fresh strawberries for the best flavor.
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened for easier mixing.
- Don’t overmix the batter when swirling; a few swirls are enough for a beautiful marbled effect.
Variation
Feel free to experiment with different fruits like raspberries or blueberries. You can also swap out the nuts for your favorite kind or omit them altogether for a nut-free version.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but make sure to thaw and drain them first to avoid excess moisture in the cake.
2. Is it okay to make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake it a day or two in advance. Just store it properly in the fridge and bring it to room temperature before serving.
3. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can use a gluten-free chocolate cake mix as a substitute for the regular one. Make sure all other ingredients are also gluten-free.
Strawberry Earthquake Cake
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful dessert that combines the rich flavors of chocolate with fresh strawberries, perfect for gatherings or family treats.
Ingredients
- 1 box chocolate cake mix
- 1 cup water
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, water, vegetable oil, and eggs. Mix until smooth.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish.
- In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar until smooth.
- Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the cake batter.
- Sprinkle the chopped strawberries, coconut, and nuts on top of the batter.
- Use a knife to swirl the cream cheese mixture gently through the batter to create a marble effect.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool before serving.
Notes
Use ripe, fresh strawberries for the best flavor. Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator.