Description
A gooey, strawberry-filled surprise cake that cracks and settles as it bakes, revealing a tangy cream cheese layer and sweet fruit center. This affordable, make-ahead dessert is perfect for busy cooks and budget-conscious families.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow or vanilla cake mix
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup water
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup strawberry jam or preserves
- 1 block (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1/3 cup granulated white sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Additional fresh strawberries, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a medium bowl, combine cake mix, water, oil, and eggs. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes until smooth.
- Pour batter into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly to form the base layer.
- In a second bowl, mix softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Spoon dollops of the cream cheese mixture over the cake batter.
- Use a knife or skewer to swirl the cream cheese into the batter, creating ribbons without fully mixing.
- Drop teaspoon-sized dollops of strawberry jam all over the top of the swirled cake.
- Bake for 45 to 55 minutes until the top is golden brown and jam is bubbling through cracks.
- Let cool in the pan for at least 20 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
Ensure cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature to prevent clumping. Do not overmix the cream cheese layer; distinct swirls are desired. If the top browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil for the last 10 minutes. The cake is best served at room temperature or slightly warm.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45-55 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 32
- Sodium: 350
- Fat: 18
- Saturated Fat: 7
- Carbohydrates: 45
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 4
Keywords: strawberry earthquake cake, make-ahead dessert, budget-friendly dessert, easy cake recipe, cream cheese cake, strawberry jam cake, family dinner dessert