Strawberry Earthquake Cake is a gooey, crowd-pleasing dessert made with strawberry cake mix and a rich cream cheese swirl that “cracks” as it bakes. If you want an easy 9×13 treat for parties, potlucks, or weekend baking, this Strawberry Earthquake Cake delivers big flavor with minimal effort.
cream cheese swirl. As it bakes, the swirl rises and cracks through the cake, creating the signature “earthquake” look.
If you love desserts that look a little messy but taste fantastic, this recipe is for you. Unlike traditional layer cakes, this one embraces its cracks and creamy pockets. In fact, that slightly uneven texture is exactly what makes it so irresistible.
Every slice is different. Some bites are rich and creamy with cheesecake filling, while others are fluffy strawberry cake with melted white chocolate and coconut. Because it starts with a boxed cake mix, it’s incredibly easy to prepare.
As a result, this Strawberry Earthquake Cake is perfect for potlucks, birthday parties, and family gatherings. Not only is it visually impressive, but it’s also rich, sweet, and comforting in the best way.
Every slice is different. Certain bites are rich and oozy with cream cheese, while others are fluffy strawberry cake with melted white chocolate and coconut. It’s the kind of traditional, popular dessert that disappears fast at potlucks, birthday parties, and family gatherings.
Strawberry Earthquake Cake is a gooey, crowd-pleasing dessert made with strawberry cake mix and a rich cream cheese swirl. As it bakes, the swirl rises and cracks through the cake, creating the signature “earthquake” look.
Because it starts with a boxed cake mix, it’s incredibly easy to prepare. In fact, this recipe is perfect for potlucks, parties, or when you simply need a quick dessert.
Not only is it visually impressive, but it’s also rich, creamy, and slightly messy in the best way.
What is the best aspect? Because it begins with a boxed cake mix, it’s very easy to make.
Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Earthquake Cake
- Super gooey cream cheese swirls
- Easy 9×13-inch pan dessert
- Minimal prep time
- Perfect for parties or holidays
- That classic “messy but amazing” texture
Ingredients for Strawberry Earthquake Cake
This recipe (1X) yields 12 slices
- Cake base
- 1 box strawberry cake mix (about 15.25 oz)
- Ingredients listed on the cake mix box (usually eggs, oil, water)
- Toppings (sprinkle over batter)
- 1 cup shredded sweetened coconut
- 1 cup white chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
- Cream cheese swirl
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- For the pan
- Cooking spray or butter (to grease the 9×13-inch dish)
How to Make Strawberry Earthquake Cake
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter
Mix the strawberry cake batter according to the box directions. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish.
Step 3: Add the Toppings
Sprinkle the shredded coconut evenly over the batter. Add white chocolate chips and pecans if using.
Step 4: Make the Cream Cheese Mixture
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add melted butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until creamy and thick.
Step 5: Create the “Earthquake” Effect
Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the cake batter. Use a knife to gently swirl it into the batter—do not overmix. The uneven swirls create the signature cracked look.
Step 6: Bake
Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the edges are set and lightly golden. The center may still look slightly gooey—that’s perfect.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Allow the cake to cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing. It will firm up as it cools. Serve warm for extra gooey texture or chilled for cleaner slices.
Tips for the Best Earthquake Cake
- Don’t overbake — it should stay slightly soft in the center.
- For extra strawberry flavor, add chopped fresh strawberries on top before baking.
- Chill the cake before slicing if you want neater squares.
Nutrition Details
Strawberry Earthquake Cake
Homemade Heart-Shaped Waffles FAQ
Strawberry Earthquake Cake: Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers to help you get the perfect gooey center, creamy swirls, and cracked “earthquake” top.
Why is it called Strawberry Earthquake Cake? +
Is it supposed to be gooey in the center? +
Can I skip the coconut or nuts? +
How do I get clean slices? +
How should I store Strawberry Earthquake Cake? +
Final Thoughts
Strawberry Earthquake Cake proves that desserts don’t have to look perfect to taste amazing. The cracks, swirls, and gooey pockets are exactly what make this cake so irresistible. It’s rich, sweet, slightly messy—and completely unforgettable.
If you’re looking for an easy dessert that feels special without requiring complicated steps, this recipe delivers every time.
Planning a party dessert table? Discover more easy and crowd-pleasing sweet recipes here.