Strawberry Earthquake Cake

#### For the Cheesecake Layer:
– **8 oz cream cheese** (softened)
– **1/4 cup granulated sugar**
– **1 egg**
– **1 teaspoon vanilla extract**

#### For the Topping:
– **1/2 cup powdered sugar** (for dusting)
– **Fresh strawberries** (sliced, for garnish)

### Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Strawberry Earthquake Cake

This cake may look intricate, but it’s surprisingly easy to make. Follow these simple steps to create a decadent Strawberry Earthquake Cake that’s sure to be the talk of your next gathering.

#### 1. **Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Cake Mix**
Start by preheating your oven to **350°F (175°C)**. Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent the cake from sticking. In a large mixing bowl, prepare the strawberry cake mix according to the instructions on the box. Typically, you’ll need to add **1 cup of water**, **1/2 cup of vegetable oil**, and **2 eggs**. Stir the mixture until smooth, then fold in the **1/4 cup of chopped fresh strawberries** for an extra burst of strawberry flavor.

#### 2. **Prepare the Cheesecake Layer**
In a separate bowl, beat the **softened cream cheese** and **sugar** until smooth and creamy. Add the **egg** and **vanilla extract**, and continue to mix until the cheesecake layer is fully combined. The texture should be thick and creamy.

#### 3. **Assemble the Cake**
Pour the strawberry cake batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Then, spoon the cheesecake mixture over the cake batter. Don’t worry about spreading it out evenly—this will naturally create cracks in the cake as it bakes.

#### 4. **Bake the Cake**
Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for about **40-45 minutes**, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. The cheesecake layer will form a gooey center, and the top of the cake will crack (creating that “earthquake” effect) as it bakes.

#### 5. **Cool the Cake**
Once the cake is baked, allow it to cool in the pan for about **30 minutes**. This helps the cake set and makes it easier to cut into perfect slices.

#### 6. **Finish with Toppings**
Before serving, dust the cooled cake with a light sprinkling of **powdered sugar** and garnish with **fresh strawberry slices** for a colorful and fresh finishing touch.

#### 7. **Serve and Enjoy!**
Cut into the cake to reveal the beautiful, crackled top and creamy cheesecake filling. Serve slices of this dessert on their own or with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate indulgence.

### Tips for Perfect Strawberry Earthquake Cake

– **Use fresh strawberries**: For the best flavor, make sure to use fresh, ripe strawberries. You can also experiment with other berries like raspberries or blueberries if you prefer.
– **Don’t overmix**: When preparing the cake and cheesecake layers, mix just until combined. Overmixing could affect the texture of the cake.
– **Chill the cake**: If you have time, let the cake chill in the fridge for an hour or two after it cools to help the layers set, making it easier to slice.
– **Top with whipped cream**: For an extra indulgent treat, serve your Strawberry Earthquake Cake with freshly whipped cream on top.
– **Make it ahead**: This cake stores well for a few days in the refrigerator, so it’s a great make-ahead dessert.

### Why You’ll Love Strawberry Earthquake Cake

The **Strawberry Earthquake Cake** is the perfect blend of flavors and textures. The moist, fruity strawberry cake forms the perfect base, while the cheesecake filling adds a rich and creamy layer of decadence. As the cake bakes, it creates an “earthquake” effect—gorgeous cracks that make it as visually stunning as it is delicious.

This dessert is perfect for those who love fruity cakes with a twist. The freshness of the strawberries, combined with the rich cheesecake flavor, will have everyone reaching for seconds. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring only a few simple ingredients that you likely already have at home.

Whether you’re making it for a birthday party, a family gathering, or just as a treat for yourself, this **Strawberry Earthquake Cake** is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Try it today, and indulge in a dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious!