Strawberry Earthquake Cake – Easy Dessert Recipe

A strawberry earthquake cake is more than just a dessert — it’s a celebration on a plate. The sweet aroma of red velvet baking in the oven, the juicy burst of fresh strawberries, and the creamy tang of whipped cream cheese frosting all come together in a cake that’s as dramatic as its name. This easy strawberry earthquake cake recipe reminds me of summer gatherings in my grandmother’s kitchen, where strawberry cakes were always the centerpiece of family celebrations. With its moist layers, glossy preserves, and bakery-style finish, this homemade strawberry layer cake is perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any occasion worth remembering. Try it once, and it just might become your new signature dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Earthquake Cake

• Triple layers of flavor – Moist red velvet cake, creamy filling, and fruity preserves.
• Strawberry lovers’ dream – Fresh fruit + preserves + garnish in every bite.
• Perfect balance – Tangy cream cheese frosting offsets the sweetness.
• Party-worthy presentation – A true showstopper on any dessert table.
• Beginner-friendly – Uses cake mix as a base, but looks professional.
• Customizable – Add chocolate drizzle, switch fruits, or keep it classic.
• Make-ahead friendly – Stays fresh and flavorful for days.

Ingredients for Strawberry Earthquake Cake

Cake Layers:

• 1 box red velvet cake mix
• Ingredients listed on cake mix box (usually eggs, oil, water)

Filling & Frosting:

• 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• 2 ½ cups heavy cream, whipped
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Strawberry Filling & Garnish:

• 1 ¼ cups strawberry preserves
• 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped
• Fresh whole strawberries for garnish

Optional Add-On: Homemade Strawberry Preserves

If you’d rather make your preserves from scratch:

• 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled & chopped
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Directions: Simmer all ingredients over medium heat for 20–25 minutes until thickened. Cool before using.

How to Make Strawberry Earthquake Cake – Step-by-Step

Step 1 – Bake the Cake Layers

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans.
3. Prepare red velvet cake mix according to package instructions.
4. Divide batter evenly into pans and bake 20–25 minutes.
5. Check with a toothpick — it should come out with a few moist crumbs.
6. Let cakes cool completely before assembling.

Step 2 – Make the Cream Filling

1. Beat softened cream cheese, melted butter, and powdered sugar until smooth.
2. Fold in whipped heavy cream and vanilla extract.
3. Chill mixture for 15 minutes to thicken slightly.

Step 3 – Assemble the Cake

1. Place the first cake layer on a serving plate.
2. Spread a layer of cream filling.
3. Top with ⅓ of the preserves and fresh chopped strawberries.
4. Repeat with the second layer.
5. Place the third layer on top and frost the entire cake with the remaining cream mixture.

Step 4 – Decorate & Chill

1. Garnish with fresh strawberries.
2. Drizzle extra preserves over the top for that “earthquake” effect.
3. Chill for at least 1 hour before slicing for neat layers.

Pro Tips & Cooking Secrets

• Level your cakes – Use a serrated knife to trim domed tops for flat layers.
• Chill the bowl and beaters before whipping cream for maximum volume.
• Don’t skip chilling – The cream filling firms up beautifully after an hour.
• Use fresh strawberries – Frozen berries release too much liquid.
• Stabilize whipped cream – Add 1 tablespoon cornstarch while whipping to hold shape longer.
• Stronger strawberry flavor – Add freeze-dried strawberry powder to the cream mixture.
• Make it chocolate-strawberry – Use chocolate cake mix instead of red velvet.
• For extra tang – Add a little lemon zest to the cream filling.
• Transporting tip – Chill overnight before moving the cake; it travels better firm.
• Presentation hack – Garnish with white chocolate curls for an elegant finish.

Variations & Substitutions

• Gluten-free: Use a gluten-free red velvet cake mix.
• Sugar-free: Swap powdered sugar with monk fruit sweetener.
• Vegan version: Use vegan cream cheese, coconut cream (whipped), and dairy-free cake mix.
• Mixed berry twist: Replace strawberries with raspberries, blueberries, or a mix.
• Nutty version: Add crushed pecans or almonds between layers.
• Extra indulgent: Add a drizzle of melted white or dark chocolate on top.

Best Ways to Serve Strawberry Earthquake Cake

• Birthday parties – It’s a showstopper centerpiece.
• Valentine’s Day dessert – Romantic red velvet & strawberries.
• Summer gatherings – Fresh berries keep it light yet indulgent.
• Holiday tables – A colorful, festive option alongside classics.
• Casual coffee dates – Slice small portions and serve with lattes.

Nutritional Information (per serving, 1/12 of cake)

• Calories: 420 kcal
• Protein: 4 g
• Carbohydrates: 52 g
• Fat: 22 g
• Sugar: 38 g

Storage & Reheating Guide

• Fridge: Store covered for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Wrap slices individually, freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in fridge overnight.
• Best served chilled — no reheating required.

FAQs – Common Kitchen Questions Answered

Q: Can I make Strawberry Earthquake Cake ahead of time?
Yes, assemble up to 24 hours in advance and chill.

Q: Can I freeze this cake?
Yes, freeze slices for up to 2 months.

Q: Can I use frozen strawberries?
Not recommended — they release too much water.

Q: How do I make it less sweet?
Use less powdered sugar in the filling or unsweetened preserves.

Q: Can I use homemade cake instead of box mix?
Absolutely — just ensure you have three 8-inch layers.

Q: How long should I chill before serving?
At least 1 hour; overnight is even better.

Q: Is this the same as a strawberry poke cake?
No — this one is layered with cream and preserves, not poked with Jell-O.

Q: What’s the best knife for slicing?
A long serrated bread knife works best.

Q: Can I add gelatin to stabilize cream?
Yes — dissolve 1 tsp gelatin in hot water, cool, and whip in.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
Cover tightly and refrigerate.

Q: Can I serve it warm?
No — it’s best served chilled so the filling holds.

Q: Can I replace cream cheese with mascarpone?
Yes, it will be richer and slightly sweeter.

Q: Can I make mini versions?
Yes — assemble in mason jars for single servings.

Q: Can I add alcohol for flavor?
Yes, a splash of strawberry liqueur in preserves works beautifully.

Q: Is this kid-friendly?
Yes — just skip the alcohol option.

Related Recipes You’ll Love

• Heavenly Strawberry Lemon Cake – Moist Summer Dessert
• No Bake Mini Strawberry Cheesecake
• Mini Banana Strawberry Cream Cheesecakes Recipe

Conclusion & Call to Action

There you have it — the ultimate Strawberry Earthquake Cake. With its layers of red velvet, fluffy cream filling, and fresh strawberries, it’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any time you want to impress.

Now it’s your turn:
👉 What’s your favorite twist on strawberry cake? Share in the comments!
👉 Don’t forget to save & share this recipe with friends who love strawberries.

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