A Stunning Swirl of Strawberry, Cream Cheese & Chocolate!
This Strawberry Earthquake Cake is a showstopping dessert with a moist chocolate base, creamy cheesecake swirls, and pockets of juicy strawberries. As it bakes, the cake “earthquakes” open to reveal gorgeous layers—perfect for birthdays, potlucks, or any sweet craving!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Berry delicious – Fresh strawberries in every bite
Rich chocolate base – Ultra-moist and fudgy
Marbleized beauty – Swirls of cream cheese and strawberry jam
Easy to make – No fancy decorating skills needed
Ingredients
(9×13″ pan, serves 12-15)
For the Cake
- 1 box (15.25 oz) chocolate cake mix + ingredients listed on box
- ½ cup strawberry jam (or preserves)
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, diced
For the Cream Cheese Swirl
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
For Topping (Optional)
- ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- Fresh strawberries for garnish
- Whipped cream
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Cake Batter
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13″ baking dish.
- Prepare chocolate cake batter according to package instructions.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan.
2. Make the Cream Cheese Swirl
- In a bowl, beat cream cheese, sugar, vanilla, and egg until smooth.
- Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the cake batter.
3. Add Strawberry Swirls
- Warm strawberry jam slightly (10 sec in microwave) for easier swirling.
- Drizzle jam over the batter, then sprinkle diced strawberries on top.
4. Create the “Earthquake” Effect
- Use a knife to gently swirl the cream cheese, jam, and strawberries into the batter.
- Don’t overmix—just a few figure-eight motions for a marbled look.
- Sprinkle chocolate chips on top (optional).
5. Bake & Cool
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, until the center is set but slightly jiggly.
- Let cool 15 minutes before slicing.
6. Serve & Enjoy!
- Top with fresh strawberries and whipped cream.
- Best served slightly warm or at room temperature.
Expert Tips
Use room temp cream cheese – Ensures smooth swirling.
Swirl gently – Too much mixing blends the layers.
Don’t overbake – The center should still be a bit soft.
Extra decadence – Add a chocolate ganache drizzle!
Make-Ahead & Storage
Prep ahead – Assemble (unbaked) and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Freezing – Freeze slices for up to 2 months (thaw before serving).
Leftovers – Store covered in the fridge for 3-4 days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use frozen strawberries?
A: Yes, but thaw and pat dry to prevent excess moisture.
Q: What if I don’t have strawberry jam?
A: Substitute with raspberry or cherry preserves.
Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
A: Use GF cake mix and check cream cheese labels.
Q: Why is my cake too dense?
A: Overmixing the batter or overbaking can cause this.
Final Thoughts
This Strawberry Earthquake Cake is a must-try for chocolate and strawberry lovers! With its fudgy base, creamy swirls, and fruity bursts, every bite is pure bliss.
Print
Strawberry Earthquake Cake
- Total Time: 1H 20 mnt
Description
Sink your teeth into this mouthwatering Strawberry Earthquake Cake! With layers of moist cake, juicy strawberries, and creamy cheesecake swirls, it’s a dessert that will shake up your taste buds.
Ingredients
1 box strawberry cake mix
Ingredients listed on the cake mix box (eggs, oil, water)
1/2 cup shredded coconut
1/2 cup chopped pecans
1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup butter, melted
2 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups sliced strawberries
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
Prepare the strawberry cake mix according to the package instructions.
Sprinkle the shredded coconut and chopped pecans evenly over the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
Pour the cake batter over the coconut and pecans.
In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, melted butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the cake batter, then use a knife to swirl it gently.
Arrange the sliced strawberries evenly over the top.
Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the cake is set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before slicing and serving.
Enjoy this deliciously messy, earthquake-style cake that’s sure to be a hit!
