why make this recipe

This cake looks fancy but is very easy to make. You can serve it at a party or family dinner. It uses a cake mix and simple fillings so you save time. If you like easy fruit desserts, you may also enjoy the easy cherry dump cake recipe for another no-fuss option.

introduction

Strawberry Earthquake Cake is soft, creamy, and full of strawberry flavor. It has a cream cheese swirl and a fresh strawberry glaze. Kids and adults love it. For another simple strawberry dessert idea, see the easy recipe for strawberry dump cake and variations.

how to make Strawberry Earthquake Cake

This cake is simple. You make the cake batter from the box. Then add cream cheese dollops and swirl. Bake and top with a cooked strawberry glaze. Below are the exact ingredients and directions.

Ingredients :

1 box strawberry cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box: usually oil, eggs, and water)
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup fresh strawberries, mashed
1/3 cup granulated sugar
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water
Fresh strawberries
Drizzle of white chocolate (optional)

Directions :

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare the cake mix as directed on the box.
Pour the cake batter into a greased baking dish.
In a bowl, mix cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture onto the cake batter.
Use a knife to swirl the cream cheese into the batter.
Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
While the cake bakes, prepare the strawberry glaze. Combine mashed strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice in a saucepan.
Cook over medium heat until sugar dissolves. Add cornstarch mixture and simmer until thickened.
Let the cake cool slightly, then drizzle with strawberry glaze.
Garnish with fresh strawberries and optional white chocolate drizzle.

how to serve Strawberry Earthquake Cake

Cut the cake into squares. Serve warm or at room temperature. Add whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream if you like. Top with extra fresh strawberries for a bright look.

how to store Strawberry Earthquake Cake

Cover the cake and keep it in the fridge. It will stay good for 3–4 days. You can freeze slices in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

tips to make Strawberry Earthquake Cake

Soften the cream cheese well so it mixes easy.
Use ripe strawberries for the best flavor.
Don’t overbake; check with a toothpick at 30 minutes.
If glaze is too thin, cook it a little longer until it thickens.
Let the cake cool a bit before adding the glaze so it soaks nicely.

variation (if any)

Use frozen strawberries (thaw and drain) if fresh are not available.
Try a white cake mix and add strawberry jam for an extra sweet version.
Add a splash of almond extract to the cream cheese for a different flavor.
Swap the white chocolate drizzle for dark chocolate if you prefer less sweetness.

FAQs

Q: Can I use a different cake mix?
A: Yes. You can use yellow or white cake mix, but the flavor will change a bit.

Q: Can I skip the cream cheese?
A: You can, but the cream cheese adds a nice creamy texture and contrast to the strawberries.

Q: How do I make the glaze less runny?
A: Cook the glaze longer or add a little more cornstarch mixed with water and simmer until it thickens.

Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
A: Use a gluten-free strawberry cake mix and check all labels to make it gluten-free.

Q: Is this cake ok for a large crowd?
A: Yes. Use a bigger baking dish or double the recipe to feed more people.

Conclusion

This Strawberry Earthquake Cake is an easy and tasty showstopper you can make with simple pantry items. For a plain strawberry cake method that uses fresh berries and home steps, check the Easy Strawberry Cake Recipe from Simply Recipes for more ideas. For another take on a quick strawberry dessert with variations, see the full Strawberry Earthquake Cake – Unbelievably Easy Showstopper Dessert page.