Strawberry Earthquake Cake (Printable version)

Gooey layers of strawberry cake, cream cheese swirl, white chocolate chips, and coconut baked to cracked perfection.

# Ingredient list:

→ Cake Base

01 - 1 box (15.25 oz) strawberry cake mix
02 - 3 large eggs
03 - 1/2 cup vegetable oil
04 - 1 cup water

→ Cream Cheese Layer

05 - 8 oz cream cheese, softened
06 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
07 - 2 cups powdered sugar

→ Add-Ins

08 - 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped
09 - 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
10 - 1 cup white chocolate chips

# Directions:

01 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9x13-inch baking pan thoroughly.
02 - Combine strawberry cake mix, eggs, oil, and water in a large bowl. Beat until completely smooth and well incorporated.
03 - Pour cake batter evenly into the prepared baking pan, spreading to corners.
04 - Sprinkle chopped strawberries, shredded coconut, and white chocolate chips evenly over the surface of the batter.
05 - Beat cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, continuing to beat until creamy and fully combined.
06 - Drop large spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture randomly over the top of the cake batter and toppings.
07 - Using a knife, gently swirl the cream cheese mixture into the batter to create a marbled appearance. Take care not to overmix.
08 - Bake for 45 minutes until edges are set and center is just slightly wobbly.
09 - Allow cake to cool for at least 30 minutes before serving. Can be served warm or at room temperature.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • The contrast between the tender strawberry cake and rich cream cheese swirled together is absolutely addictive
  • Its one of those desserts that looks impressive but comes together with minimal effort
  • The combination of fresh strawberries, coconut, and white chocolate hits every sweet craving in one bite
02 -
  • The center will look underbaked when you remove it but it continues cooking as it cools
  • Resist the urge to over swirl or you will lose those beautiful distinct layers
  • This cake actually tastes better the next day as flavors have time to meld together
03 -
  • Use a light colored pan to prevent the edges from overcooking before the center is done
  • If your cream cheese is not soft enough, microwave it for 15 seconds to avoid lumps
  • Run your knife under hot water between swirls for cleaner lines through the batter

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