Gooey Strawberry Earthquake Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Swirl

Name: Gooey Strawberry Earthquake Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 15.25 ounce strawberry cake mix; 3 large eggs (as called for by the cake mix box); 1/2 cup oil (as called for by the cake mix box); 1 cup water (as called for by the cake mix box); 1 8 ounce block cream cheese (softened); 4 tablespoons butter (melted); 2.5 cups powdered sugar; 2 4 ounce white chocolate bars (1 for mixing, 1 for curls); 2 cups chopped strawberries (divided); 1 8 ounce container whipped topping

Published: January 14, 2026

by Grace Bennett

Why You'll Love This Gooey Strawberry Earthquake Cake

This incredible Gooey Strawberry Earthquake Cake transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.

Ingredients for Gooey Strawberry Earthquake Cake

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Gooey Strawberry Earthquake Cake:

15.25 ounce strawberry cake mix – This is the superstar base of your cake, offering great flavor and a beautiful pink hue.

Eggs, oil, and water – Check your cake mix box for these essentials to bring the cake to life.

1 8 ounce block cream cheese, softened – The creamy goodness that adds luxurious texture and tanginess to the cake.

4 tablespoons butter – Use unsalted butter for a rich flavor that balances the sweetness.

2 ½ cups powdered sugar – This sweetener melds beautifully with cream cheese to create a luscious cream swirl.

2 4-ounce white chocolate bars – These will elevate your cake with rich, divine sweetness; feel free to chop them into chunks for melty bites!

2 cups chopped strawberries, divided – Fresh strawberries infuse the cake with flavor and vibrant color; save some for topping!

1 8 ounce container whipped topping – This adds a light, airy finish to the cake that’s simply irresistible.

How to Make Gooey Strawberry Earthquake Cake

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Gooey Strawberry Earthquake Cake:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) and grease a 9×13 baking dish with non-stick cooking spray or butter.

Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine the strawberry cake mix, eggs, oil, and water as specified on the box. Stir this mixture until all ingredients are well blended and smooth.

Step 3: Pour the Batter
Pour the cake batter into your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly to create a lovely base for your cake.

Step 4: Make the Cream Cheese Mixture
In a separate medium bowl, melt the butter. Using an electric mixer, blend the melted butter with the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add in the powdered sugar and mix until creamy and decadent.

Step 5: Combine and Swirl
Dollop the cream cheese mixture by spoonfuls over the cake batter in the pan. Then, break one white chocolate bar into bite-sized pieces and sprinkle them over the mixture. Add 1 cup of the chopped strawberries next and gently swirl everything together with a knife.

Step 6: Bake and Cool
Bake this beauty in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once done, allow the cake to cool completely before moving on to the topping.

Step 7: Top It Off
Once cooled, spread the whipped topping generously across the surface of the cake. Use a potato peeler to create curls from the remaining white chocolate bar and sprinkle these together with the remaining cup of chopped strawberries all over the top.

Now, gather your friends and family, because serving this gooey strawberry miracle is an event all on its own. Whether you’re basking in the sun or cozied up on the couch, each bite will be filled with strawberry goodness and creamy delight. Don’t forget to grab a fork and get ready for some ooey-gooey bliss!

You Must Know About Gooey Strawberry Earthquake Cake

This showstopping Gooey Strawberry Earthquake Cake delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting Gooey Strawberry Earthquake Cake Cooking Process

To maximize efficiency, start by preheating your oven and greasing your baking dish. While the oven warms, prepare the cake batter and cream cheese filling, saving time and ensuring everything bakes perfectly together.

Add Your Touch to Gooey Strawberry Earthquake Cake

Feel free to swap out the strawberries for your favorite berries, like raspberries or blueberries. You can also mix in nuts or coconut flakes for added texture, or use different flavored cake mixes for a unique twist.

Storing & Reheating Gooey Strawberry Earthquake Cake

Store your cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. For reheating, microwave slices for 15-20 seconds to enjoy that gooeyness once again without compromising flavor.

Chef's Helpful Tips for Gooey Strawberry Earthquake Cake

This professional-quality Gooey Strawberry Earthquake Cake relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.

Baking this cake always takes me back to our family gatherings. My aunt brought the recipe to one of our summer picnics, and it vanished within minutes—everyone raved about the gooeyness!

FAQs About Gooey Strawberry Earthquake Cake

What is Gooey Strawberry Earthquake Cake?

Gooey Strawberry Earthquake Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the sweet flavors of strawberry cake with a rich, cream cheese swirl. Known for its unique texture that creates a ‘quake’ effect as it bakes, this cake offers a deliciously gooey center. It’s topped with whipped cream and fresh strawberries, making it a visually stunning treat for any occasion. Perfect for summer gatherings or cozy family dinners, this cake is sure to impress your guests with its vibrant flavors and textures.

How do you make the cream cheese swirl in Gooey Strawberry Earthquake Cake?

To create the luscious cream cheese swirl for Gooey Strawberry Earthquake Cake, start by combining softened cream cheese with melted butter and powdered sugar using an electric mixer. The mixture should be smooth and creamy. Drop spoonfuls of this heavenly mixture onto the strawberry cake batter before baking. This process allows the cream cheese to swirl into the cake as it bakes, creating a beautiful marbled effect that enhances both the flavor and the overall aesthetics of the cake.

Can I substitute ingredients in Gooey Strawberry Earthquake Cake?

Absolutely! You can customize Gooey Strawberry Earthquake Cake to suit your taste preferences. For instance, swap out the strawberries for blueberries or raspberries for a different fruit flavor. You can also use lemon-flavored cake mix instead of strawberry for a refreshing twist. Additionally, feel free to add nuts or coconut for added texture. The recipe is versatile, making it easy to adapt based on what you have on hand or your flavor cravings.

How should I store leftovers of Gooey Strawberry Earthquake Cake?

To keep your delicious Gooey Strawberry Earthquake Cake fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Properly stored, the cake can last for up to five days. When ready to enjoy again, simply reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds. This will restore the gooeyness that makes this cake so delightful without compromising its flavor or texture.

Conclusion for Gooey Strawberry Earthquake Cake

The Gooey Strawberry Earthquake Cake is a showstopper perfect for any occasion. With its easy preparation and mouthwatering flavors, this cake guarantees a delightful experience for you and your guests. Remember to customize it with your favorite fruits and toppings to make it truly your own. So gather those ingredients, and get ready to impress everyone with your baking skills. This cake is more than just dessert; it’s an experience that everyone will love!