Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cake lives up to its name with the “earthquake” effect of strawberries and cheesecake swirling through moist cake layers. It’s easy to assemble yet impressive, perfect for birthdays, potlucks, or anytime you want to wow guests with a luscious, fruity dessert.

Ingredients

1 box white or yellow cake mix (plus ingredients needed for cake mix)
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
1 container (8 oz) frozen whipped topping, thawed
Optional: additional strawberries for garnish

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare Cake:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Prepare cake batter according to package instructions.
Make Cheesecake Layer:
In a bowl, beat cream cheese, sugar, egg, and vanilla until smooth.
Assemble Cake:
Pour half the cake batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan.
Dollop half the cream cheese mixture evenly over the batter.
Sprinkle half the sliced strawberries on top.
Pour remaining cake batter over, then dollop remaining cream cheese mixture and strawberries.
Gently swirl layers with a knife.
Bake:
Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean.
Cool and Top:
Allow cake to cool completely.
Spread thawed whipped topping evenly over the cake.
Garnish and Serve:
Garnish with additional fresh strawberries if desired.
Refrigerate until ready to serve.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 12
Prep time: 20 minutes
Bake time: 45 minutes
Chill time: 1 hour
Total time: About 2 hours

Variations

Chocolate: Add cocoa powder to the cake mix or use chocolate cake mix.
Mixed Berries: Use a mix of raspberries, blueberries, and strawberries.
Lemon: Add lemon zest to the cream cheese layer for a citrusy twist.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free cake mix.
Frosting: Use cream cheese frosting instead of whipped topping.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze baked cake (without whipped topping) for up to 2 months; thaw before frosting.
Reheating: Serve chilled; no reheating recommended.

FAQs

Can I use fresh or frozen strawberries?

Fresh strawberries work best, but thawed frozen strawberries can be used.

How do I prevent the cheesecake layer from cracking?

Don’t overmix and bake at the proper temperature.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, assemble and refrigerate until serving.

Can I substitute other fruits?

Yes, peaches or blueberries are great alternatives.

Is this cake very sweet?

It has balanced sweetness with fresh fruit and creamy layers.

Can I use homemade cake batter?

Yes, homemade batter works perfectly.

How do I swirl the layers?

Use a knife or skewer and gently swirl without overmixing.

Can I double the recipe?

Use two pans and adjust baking time accordingly.

What pan size should I use?

A 9×13-inch pan is ideal for this recipe.

Can I decorate with other toppings?

Add nuts, chocolate chips, or fruit preserves for extra flavor.

Conclusion

Strawberry Earthquake Cake is a luscious, multi-layered dessert combining creamy cheesecake, fresh strawberries, and moist cake for an irresistible treat. Its impressive look and delightful flavor make it perfect for celebrations or anytime you want to impress with a delicious homemade dessert