Why Make This Recipe
Strawberry Earthquake Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the richness of chocolate cake with the sweetness of strawberries and a creamy filling. This cake is not just a treat for the eyes but also for the taste buds. It’s perfect for celebrations, potlucks, or any sweet cravings you have. The layers of chocolate, cream cheese, and strawberries create a flavorful explosion in every bite. Plus, it’s simple to make, making it a great option for bakers of all skill levels!
How to Make Strawberry Earthquake Cake
Ingredients:
- 1 package chocolate cake mix
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup strawberries, chopped
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut (optional)
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, water, vegetable oil, and eggs. Mix until smooth.
- Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared baking pan.
- In another bowl, beat the cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Drop spoonfuls of this mixture over the cake batter.
- Pour the remaining cake batter on top.
- Sprinkle with chopped strawberries on top, and if desired, add coconut and nuts.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool before serving.
How to Serve Strawberry Earthquake Cake
Serve Strawberry Earthquake Cake at room temperature or slightly chilled. You can enjoy it plain, or add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. This cake is great for gatherings, so cut it into squares and serve it on a platter for guests to help themselves.
How to Store Strawberry Earthquake Cake
Store any leftover Strawberry Earthquake Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week. For even longer storage, you can freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer-safe bag. Just thaw them in the refrigerator before serving.
Tips to Make Strawberry Earthquake Cake
- Make sure your cream cheese is softened for easy mixing.
- Consider using fresh strawberries for the best flavor.
- You can adjust the amount of coconut and nuts based on your preference.
- Ensure not to overmix the cake batter to keep it fluffy!
Variation
For a twist, you can use vanilla or strawberry cake mix instead of chocolate. Additionally, you can add other fruits like blueberries or raspberries for different flavors.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh ones?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries. Just thaw and drain them well before adding to the cake.
2. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake it a day in advance and store it in an airtight container.
3. What should I do if my cream cheese filling is too thick?
If the filling is too thick, you can add a tablespoon of milk to make it easier to spread.