The first bite was an explosion of flavors – the sweet tang of strawberries, the creamy richness of white chocolate, and that unmistakable earthiness that only a perfectly made cake can offer. It was a hit! Later, she shared her secret with me: a Strawberry Earthquake Cake that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.
This cake is not just a dessert; it’s an experience. It starts with a simple strawberry cake mix, but the addition of cream cheese, white chocolate chips, and fresh strawberries takes it to another level. As the cake bakes, the cream cheese mixture creates delightful pockets of creamy goodness, and the white chocolate chips melt into sweet surprises throughout the cake.
One of the best parts of this recipe is its versatility. You can tweak it to suit your taste or what you have on hand. Swap the white chocolate chips for dark chocolate if you prefer, or add a handful of nuts for extra crunch. And don’t forget the toppings – a dollop of whipped cream and a few extra strawberries make it look as good as it tastes.
So, gather your ingredients and join me on this baking adventure. Trust me, your family and friends will thank you!
Making Strawberry Earthquake Cake
Ingredients
- 1 box strawberry cake mix (plus ingredients called for in package)
- 1 cup white chocolate chips
- 8 oz cream cheese
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 cup diced strawberries
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 1/2 tsp vanilla
- Whipped cream for topping (optional)
- Strawberries for topping (optional)
Directions
Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13″ pan. Set it aside.
Prepare the cake mix according to the package instructions. Pour the batter into the greased pan.
Sprinkle the white chocolate chips evenly over the batter.
In a separate bowl, mix the melted butter, cream cheese, and vanilla until well combined. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until fully incorporated.
Gently fold in the diced strawberries into the cream cheese mixture.
Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the cake batter. Use a knife to gently swirl it through the batter, creating a marbled effect.
Bake the cake for 40-45 minutes. Once done, remove it from the oven and let it cool.
Cut into slices and, if desired, top with whipped cream and additional strawberries.
FAQs:
Can I use fresh strawberries instead of diced strawberries in the Strawberry Earthquake Cake?
Yes, you can use fresh strawberries instead of diced strawberries. In fact, fresh strawberries will enhance the flavor and texture of the cake. However, make sure to dice them into small pieces to ensure even distribution throughout the cake.
What type of cream cheese should I use for this recipe?
For this recipe, it is best to use full-fat cream cheese to achieve a rich and creamy texture. While you can use low-fat or reduced-fat cream cheese, the consistency might not be as smooth and the flavor slightly less rich.
Can I substitute the white chocolate chips with another type of chocolate?
Yes, you can substitute the white chocolate chips with milk or dark chocolate chips if you prefer. This will alter the flavor profile of the cake, providing a different but still delicious result. Remember to sprinkle them evenly over the cake batter for the best effect.
How do I know when the Strawberry Earthquake Cake is fully baked?
The Strawberry Earthquake Cake is fully baked when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Additionally, the edges of the cake should be slightly golden brown. Be careful not to overbake, as this can dry out the cake.
Is it necessary to top the cake with whipped cream and additional strawberries?
While it is not necessary to top the cake with whipped cream and additional strawberries, doing so can enhance the presentation and add extra flavor. If you prefer a simpler dessert, you can serve the cake as is. Nonetheless, the optional toppings can make it more visually appealing and festive for special occasions.
Strawberry Earthquake Cake
Ingredients
- 1 box strawberry cake mix plus ingredients called for in package
- 8 oz cream cheese
- 1 cup diced strawberries
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 1/2 tsp vanilla
- 1 cup white chocolate chips
- Whipped cream for topping optional
- Strawberries for topping optional
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13″ pan. Set it aside.
- Prepare the cake mix according to the package instructions. Pour the batter into the greased pan.
- Sprinkle the white chocolate chips evenly over the batter.
- In a separate bowl, mix the melted butter, cream cheese, and vanilla until well combined. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until fully incorporated.
- Gently fold in the diced strawberries into the cream cheese mixture.
- Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the cake batter. Use a knife to gently swirl it through the batter, creating a marbled effect.
- Bake the cake for 40-45 minutes. Once done, remove it from the oven and let it cool.
- Cut into slices and, if desired, top with whipped cream and additional strawberries.
