Introduction: Strawberry Earthquake Cake is a decadent, flavorful dessert that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. This cake combines the classic flavors of a white cake mix with the freshness of strawberries, the richness of a cream cheese layer, and the delightful additions of coconut flakes and white chocolate chips. As it bakes, the cake creates beautiful cracks and crevices, revealing the creamy, sweet pockets within—hence the name “Earthquake Cake.” This dessert is perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to potlucks, where you want to impress with a dessert that looks and tastes extraordinary.
Overview of the Recipe: Strawberry Earthquake Cake is an easy-to-make dessert that delivers a wow factor with minimal effort. By starting with a boxed white cake mix, you save time, allowing you to focus on adding the special ingredients that make this cake unique. The cake’s texture is soft and moist, with the added richness of a cream cheese layer that perfectly complements the sweet, tart strawberries. Coconut flakes and white chocolate chips add a delightful texture and flavor, making each bite a treat.
History and Origin: The Earthquake Cake is a variation of traditional dump cakes, a style of cake that has been popular in American kitchens for decades due to its simplicity and ease of preparation. The name “Earthquake Cake” comes from the cake’s appearance after baking, as the layers shift and create cracks, much like the earth’s surface after an earthquake. This strawberry version adds a fresh, fruity twist to the classic recipe, making it a perfect dessert for spring and summer.
Ingredients:
- 1 box white cake mix
- Ingredients required by the cake mix (usually water, oil, and eggs)
- 1 cup strawberries, chopped
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup coconut flakes
- 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
Instructions:
- Preheat and Prepare:
- Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent the cake from sticking.
- Prepare the cake mix according to the package instructions. Typically, this involves combining the cake mix with water, oil, and eggs. Mix until the batter is smooth and well-combined.
- Gently fold in the chopped strawberries to the cake batter. The fresh strawberries will add a burst of flavor and moisture to the cake.
- Pour the strawberry-laden cake batter into the greased baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Create the Cream Cheese Mixture:
- In a medium-sized bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, melted butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Use an electric mixer to beat the mixture until it’s smooth and creamy. This rich cream cheese mixture will create delicious pockets of flavor throughout the cake.
- Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the top of the cake batter in the baking dish. There’s no need to spread it evenly—part of the charm of the Earthquake Cake is the way the cream cheese mixture sinks into the cake during baking, creating a marbled effect.
- Add Toppings:
- Evenly sprinkle the coconut flakes and white chocolate chips over the top of the cake batter and cream cheese mixture. The coconut flakes will toast as the cake bakes, adding a crunchy texture, while the white chocolate chips will melt slightly, adding to the cake’s gooey deliciousness.
- Bake to Perfection:
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the cake is set, and the edges are golden brown. You’ll notice the top of the cake will crack and create a distinctive earthquake-like appearance as it bakes.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan before serving. This cooling time allows the cream cheese layer to set slightly, making the cake easier to cut and serve.
Serving: Strawberry Earthquake Cake can be served warm or at room temperature. It’s delicious on its own, but you can elevate it by adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on the side. This cake is perfect for casual gatherings, family dinners, or as a show-stopping dessert at a potluck.
Pairing and Serving Suggestions:
- Beverages: Pair this cake with a glass of cold milk, a cup of hot coffee, or a light, fruity tea like strawberry or raspberry.
- Dessert: Serve with a scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream for an indulgent treat.
- Occasions: This cake is a great choice for summer picnics, barbecues, or family gatherings. Its vibrant flavor and beautiful presentation make it a crowd-pleaser.
Variations of the Recipe:
- Chocolate Earthquake Cake: Replace the white cake mix with a chocolate cake mix and the strawberries with raspberries for a decadent chocolate-raspberry version.
- Nutty Variation: Add 1/2 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts to the cake batter for added crunch and a nutty flavor.
- Berry Medley: Use a mix of berries like blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries instead of just strawberries for a mixed berry earthquake cake.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free cake mix and follow the same instructions for a gluten-free version of this delicious cake.
Health Benefits: While Strawberry Earthquake Cake is undoubtedly a treat, the use of fresh strawberries provides some nutritional benefits. Strawberries are rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber, which contribute to overall health. To make the cake slightly lighter, you can reduce the amount of powdered sugar in the cream cheese mixture or use a sugar substitute. Additionally, using light cream cheese can lower the fat content without sacrificing flavor.
FAQs:
- Can I use frozen strawberries?
- Yes, you can use frozen strawberries if fresh ones are not available. Thaw and drain them before adding to the cake batter to avoid excess moisture.
- How do I store leftovers?
- Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Bring to room temperature or warm slightly in the microwave before serving.
- Can I freeze this cake?
- Yes, you can freeze Strawberry Earthquake Cake. Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. It can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
- Can I use a different type of cake mix?
- Absolutely! While white cake mix complements the strawberries well, you can experiment with vanilla, lemon, or even a strawberry-flavored cake mix.
- What if I don’t like coconut?
- If you’re not a fan of coconut, simply omit the coconut flakes. The cake will still be delicious without them.
Conclusion: Strawberry Earthquake Cake is a delightful dessert that’s sure to impress with its vibrant flavors and eye-catching presentation. The combination of sweet strawberries, rich cream cheese, and crunchy coconut makes this cake a standout choice for any occasion. Easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy, this cake is a must-try for anyone looking to add a bit of excitement to their dessert repertoire. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering, bringing it to a potluck, or simply indulging in a sweet treat at home, Strawberry Earthquake Cake is guaranteed to be a hit.