Strawberry Earthquake Cake

Name: Strawberry Earthquake Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 1 box chocolate cake mix; 1 cup water; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 3 large eggs; 8 oz cream cheese (softened); 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 cups fresh strawberries (pureed); 1 cup whipped cream; Fresh strawberries for garnish; Chocolate syrup for drizzling

This strawberry earthquake cake is a showstopper that combines a rich chocolate base with a luscious strawberry topping. Its unique texture and vibrant flavor make it a perfect dessert for gatherings or special occasions. With its eye-catching appearance and delightful taste, this cake is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth. Grab your apron, and let’s dive into this delicious recipe!

Ingredients

1 box chocolate cake mix
1 cup water
1/2 cup vegetable oil
3 large eggs
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
2 cups fresh strawberries, pureed
1 cup whipped cream
Fresh strawberries for garnish
Chocolate syrup for drizzling

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe makes 12 servings. Preparation time is about 20 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 30-35 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (1 slice) contains approximately 250 calories, 12g of fat, 33g of carbohydrates, and 3g of protein. This nutritional information is based on a standard serving size.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Prepare a 9×13 inch baking dish by greasing it.
In a large bowl, mix the chocolate cake mix, water, vegetable oil, and eggs until smooth.
Pour the cake batter into the prepared baking dish.
In another bowl, blend the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until creamy.
Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the cake batter.
Using a knife, swirl the cream cheese mixture into the batter for a marbled effect.
Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Allow the cake to cool completely.
Top the cooled cake with pureed strawberries and whipped cream, and garnish with fresh strawberries.

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute the chocolate cake mix with vanilla or red velvet for a different flavor profile. Additionally, dairy-free cream cheese and whipped cream can be used for a vegan version.

Serving and Pairings

This cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a side of fresh fruit. For a refreshing drink, serve with iced tea or lemonade.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It can also be frozen for up to a month. To reheat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and serve at room temperature.

Cooking Mistakes

Not greasing the baking dish can lead to sticking.
Overmixing the batter can result in a dense cake.
Not allowing the cake to cool completely before topping can cause melting.
Using cold ingredients can affect the texture; make sure ingredients are at room temperature.
Skipping the swirling step can lead to uneven flavor distribution.

Helpful Tips

For a richer flavor, add chocolate chips to the batter.
Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best taste.
Let the cake sit for a few hours before serving to enhance the flavors.
Experiment with different toppings like nuts or coconut flakes.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but make sure to thaw and drain them before using to avoid excess moisture in the cake.

How do I know when the cake is done?

The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the cake a day in advance and top it just before serving.

Is this cake suitable for kids?

Yes, this cake is child-friendly, offering a delightful mix of flavors that kids will love.

What should I do if the cake is too sweet?

You can balance the sweetness by serving it with unsweetened whipped cream or yogurt.

Conclusion

The strawberry earthquake cake is not just a dessert; it’s an experience that combines rich chocolate with refreshing strawberries. Perfect for celebrations or casual gatherings, this cake is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy the delightful flavors and impress your guests with this stunning treat!