Close up photo of a strawberry earthquake cake

Easy Strawberry Earthquake Cake Recipe – Perfect for Any Occasion

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This Easy Strawberry Earthquake Cake is a deliciously moist and decadent dessert with a rich, creamy texture and pockets of sweet, gooey goodness.

Unlike a traditional cake, this one forms cracks and pockets while baking, giving it a unique “earthquake” effect.

The combination of fresh strawberries, cream cheese, and white chocolate makes it perfect for any gathering, from birthdays to casual get-togethers.

Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an irresistible treat!

A delightful strawberry cake

Easy Strawberry Earthquake Cake Recipe

Strawberry Earthquake Cake is a fun and delicious dessert with a rich, gooey texture and pockets of cream cheese throughout.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 12
Calories 380 kcal

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Mixing bowls
  • Electric mixer (or whisk)
  • Spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients
  

Cake Base

  • 1 box strawberry cake mix
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 3 large eggs

Cream Cheese Layer

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 cups powdered sugar

Add-ins

  • 1 cup fresh strawberries, diced
  • 1 cup white chocolate chips
  • 1/2 cup shredded coconut
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Cake Batter:
    Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
    Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
    In a large bowl, mix together the strawberry cake mix, milk, vegetable oil, and eggs until well combined and smooth. Set aside.
    Flour is gently poured into a mixing bowl
  • Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture:
    In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, melted butter, and powdered sugar until creamy and smooth.
    Creaming butter and sugar in a stand mixer
  • Assemble the Cake:
    Pour the strawberry cake batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
    Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the cake batter. Do not stir—this will create the "earthquake" effect while baking.
    Sprinkle the white chocolate chips, fresh strawberries, and optional coconut or nuts evenly over the top.
    Pink batter is carefully poured into a prepared cake pan
  • Bake the Cake:
    Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set but slightly gooey.
    Let the cake cool for at least 10 minutes before serving.
    Freshly baked cake, cooling on a wire rack
  • Serve and Enjoy:
    Serve warm as-is or with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for extra indulgence!
    A beautiful strawberry cake, generously frosted in a vibrant pink icing

Video

Notes

✅ Don’t overmix the batter; this keeps the cake light and fluffy.
✅ Use room temperature ingredients for smoother blending.
✅ For extra strawberry flavor, add ½ teaspoon of strawberry extract.
✅ Drizzle melted white chocolate over the cooled cake for a gourmet touch.
Keyword American Cuisine, Dessert, Earthquake Cake, Easy Baking, Strawberry Cake

 

Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Earthquake Cake

Earthquake cakes get their name from the way they bake: the batter rises unevenly, causing the creamy fillings to sink, rise, and swirl into beautiful, unpredictable patterns.

  • Super Easy to Make – No complicated steps, just mix, layer, and bake!
  • Incredibly Moist & Gooey – The combination of cream cheese, butter, and fresh strawberries ensures every bite is soft and rich.
  • A Beautifully Unique Look – The signature cracks and swirls give this cake its signature “earthquake” effect.
  • Loaded with Flavor – A blend of fresh strawberries, white chocolate, coconut, and nuts makes this cake extra special.
  • Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether it’s a family gathering, birthday party, or an afternoon treat, this cake fits the bill!

Creative Variations

One of the best things about an Earthquake Cake is that it’s super versatile—you can tweak flavors, textures, and ingredients to match your cravings. Here are some fun variations to try:

1. Chocolate-Strawberry Earthquake Cake

  • Swap the white chocolate chips for dark or milk chocolate chips.
  • Add a swirl of Nutella or melted chocolate into the cream cheese mixture.
  • Top with a drizzle of chocolate ganache after baking!

2. Strawberry Lemon Earthquake Cake

  • Add lemon zest to the cake batter for a citrusy twist.
  • Mix a little lemon juice into the cream cheese swirl for a tangy contrast.
  • Serve with powdered sugar and fresh lemon slices on top!

3. Strawberry Shortcake Earthquake Cake

  • Replace the shredded coconut with crushed graham crackers for a shortcake-style vibe.
  • After baking, top with fresh whipped cream and extra strawberries.
  • Add a layer of crumbled vanilla cookies before baking for a crunchy twist!

4. Almond Strawberry Earthquake Cake

  • Replace white chocolate chips with chopped almonds for a nutty crunch.
  • Use almond extract instead of vanilla for a subtle, sophisticated flavor.
  • Sprinkle slivered almonds on top before baking for a bakery-style touch!

Summary

This Easy Strawberry Earthquake Cake is a fun and delicious dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.

With its gooey, creamy layers and bursts of sweet strawberries and white chocolate, it’s sure to be a hit with family and friends.

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