Follow these steps to create the amazing Gooey Strawberry Earthquake Cake:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prepare for the cake.

2. Mix the Cake Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, water, vegetable oil, and eggs. Mix according to package directions until well-blended.

3. Pour the Batter: Pour the cake batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.

4. Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer: In a separate bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.

5. Add the Strawberries: Stir in the diced strawberries and half of the mini chocolate chips (if using) into the cream cheese mixture.

6. Spoon Cream Cheese Mixture: Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture randomly over the surface of the cake batter. Do not spread; let it sit to create the “earthquake” effect while baking.

7. Add Strawberry Jam: Drizzle the strawberry jam over the top of the cake, distributing it as evenly as possible.

8. Bake the Cake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

9. Cool the Cake: Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 20 minutes.

10. Dust with Powdered Sugar: If desired, dust the top of the cooled cake with powdered sugar for an elegant touch.

11. Add Remaining Chocolate Chips: Sprinkle the remaining mini chocolate chips on top for extra flavor and decoration.