Ingredients

Let’s take a closer look at what goes into this decadent dessert:

For the Cake Base:
1 box strawberry cake mix – This is the foundation. Using a boxed mix keeps things easy, but you can also make a homemade strawberry cake if you prefer.

Ingredients listed on the box (usually eggs, oil, and water) – These bring the mix together into a smooth batter.

Add-ins for Flavor & Texture:
1½ cups fresh or frozen strawberries, chopped – The star ingredient. Fresh strawberries add juiciness and sweetness, while frozen berries work if they’re out of season (just thaw and drain well).

1 cup white chocolate chips or chunks – Sweet creaminess that pairs perfectly with strawberries.

1 cup sweetened shredded coconut – Adds chewiness and tropical flair.

½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional) – A bit of crunch balances the gooey cake.

Cream Cheese Swirl:

8 oz cream cheese, softened – Creates the rich cheesecake-like swirl.

½ cup unsalted butter, softened – Adds richness and creaminess.

2½ cups powdered sugar – Sweetens the cream cheese mixture.

1 tsp vanilla extract – For warmth and flavor depth.

Instructions

Follow these steps for a perfect Strawberry Earthquake Cake:

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray. You can also line it with parchment paper for easier cleanup.

Step 2: Make the Cake Batter
In a large bowl, prepare the strawberry cake mix according to package instructions (usually combining the mix with eggs, oil, and water).

Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading evenly with a spatula.

Step 3: Add the Mix-ins

Sprinkle the chopped strawberries, white chocolate chips, coconut, and nuts (if using) evenly over the cake batter.

These will sink slightly as the cake bakes, giving bursts of flavor in every bite.

Step 4: Make the Cream Cheese Swirl
In a medium bowl, beat together the cream cheese, softened butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth and fluffy.

Drop spoonfuls of the mixture on top of the cake batter.

Use a butter knife or skewer to gently swirl it through the batter, creating ribbons of cream cheese. Don’t over-mix—some chunky swirls are good.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Place the dish in the oven and bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the cake is golden on top and mostly set.

The center should remain slightly gooey—that’s the hallmark of an earthquake cake.

Step 6: Cool & Serve
Allow the cake to cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing.

Serve warm for a molten, gooey texture, or let it chill in the refrigerator for a firmer, cheesecake-like bite.