Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls

Introduction

These Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls are a dreamy fusion of classic strawberry shortcake and creamy cheesecake, all wrapped in a soft, fluffy cake roll. A light sponge cake encases a luscious strawberry cheesecake filling, creating a perfect blend of sweetness and tang. Topped with a creamy whipped layer and a crunchy shortcake crumble, every bite delivers a delightful contrast of textures and flavors.

I still remember the first time I made these—each slice revealed a beautiful swirl of creamy filling and golden cake, making them just as stunning as they are delicious. The combination of airy sponge, rich cheesecake, and that signature shortcake crunch is pure dessert perfection.

Whether you’re serving them for a special celebration or just indulging in a sweet treat, these rolls are guaranteed to impress. Their elegant look and incredible taste make them a show-stopping dessert for any occasion!

Perfect for:

• Special celebrations
• Afternoon tea
• Family gatherings
• Valentine’s Day
• Dessert lovers

Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls

Here’s why Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls will become your new favorite dessert:

• Light and Fluffy Cake: The sponge cake is airy and soft, making the perfect base for the creamy filling.
• Rich Cheesecake Filling: A smooth, creamy strawberry cheesecake filling adds a decadent touch.
• Crunchy Shortcake Crumble: The topping adds a delightful crunch that mimics classic strawberry shortcake.
• Beautiful Presentation: These rolls are not only delicious but also visually stunning with their vibrant strawberry hue and crumbly topping.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare these ahead of time, making them ideal for parties and gatherings.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (includes chilling)
• Preparation Time: 30 minutes
• Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
• Chilling Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 8-10 rolls
• Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 4g, Carbs: 35g, Fat: 12g

Ingredients for Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls!

Gather these ingredients to make your Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls:

Sponge Cake:

• 4 large eggs
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¾ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 2 tablespoons whole milk

Strawberry Cheesecake Filling:

• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup heavy whipping cream
• ½ cup diced fresh strawberries

Shortcake Crumble Topping:

• ¾ cup vanilla wafer cookies or shortbread cookies, crushed
• 2 tablespoons freeze-dried strawberry powder
• 2 tablespoons melted butter

Whipped Topping:

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Ingredient Highlights

• Eggs: Whipping the eggs creates a light, airy sponge cake that holds the roll’s shape.
• Cream Cheese: Provides the creamy, tangy cheesecake flavor in the filling.
• Fresh Strawberries: Adds natural sweetness and freshness to the filling.
• Vanilla Wafers: Crushed cookies form the base of the crunchy shortcake crumble topping.
• Freeze-Dried Strawberries: Intensifies the strawberry flavor without adding excess moisture.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls:

Prepare the Sponge Cake:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it.
2. Whip the Eggs and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar using an electric mixer on high speed for about 4-5 minutes until thick and pale.
3. Add Vanilla, Oil, and Milk: Gently mix in the vanilla extract, vegetable oil, and milk.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Fold the Dry Ingredients In: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture using a spatula, being careful not to deflate the batter.
6. Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the top springs back when lightly touched.

Roll the Cake:

7. Prepare a Towel: While the cake is baking, lay a clean kitchen towel on the counter and dust it with powdered sugar.
8. Roll the Cake: Once baked, immediately turn the cake onto the towel, peel off the parchment paper, and carefully roll it up with the towel. Let it cool completely while rolled to prevent cracking.

Make the Strawberry Cheesecake Filling:

9. Beat the Cream Cheese and Sugar: In a bowl, beat the cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth.
10. Add Vanilla and Cream: Mix in the vanilla extract and heavy whipping cream, beating until fluffy.
11. Fold in Strawberries: Gently fold in the diced fresh strawberries.

Assemble the Roll:

12. Unroll the Cake: Carefully unroll the cooled cake and spread an even layer of the cheesecake filling over it.
13. Re-Roll the Cake: Roll the cake back up tightly without the towel. Wrap it in plastic wrap and chill for at least 30 minutes.

Make the Shortcake Crumble:

14. Crush the Cookies: Place the vanilla wafers in a zip-top bag and crush them into fine crumbs.
15. Mix with Strawberry Powder: Stir in the freeze-dried strawberry powder.
16. Add Butter: Mix in the melted butter until the crumbs hold together slightly.

Whip the Topping:

17. Beat the Cream and Sugar: In a mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.

Decorate the Rolls:

18. Frost the Roll: Spread the whipped topping over the rolled cake.
19. Add the Crumble: Sprinkle the shortcake crumble evenly over the top.

How to Serve Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls

Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls can be served in several delicious ways:

• With Fresh Berries: Garnish each slice with additional fresh strawberries for extra flavor.
• With Ice Cream: Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
• Dust with Powdered Sugar: Lightly dust with powdered sugar before serving for a simple yet elegant touch.
• Drizzle with Strawberry Sauce: Add a drizzle of strawberry sauce for more berry goodness.

Additional Tips for Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls

Follow these tips for perfect Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls:

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients – Ensure your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature for a smooth, lump-free filling.
• Gentle Folding – When incorporating the dry ingredients into the batter, fold gently to maintain the cake’s airy texture.
• Pre-roll While Warm – Roll the cake in parchment paper while it’s still warm to prevent cracks when assembling.
• Strain the Strawberry Sauce – For an extra smooth filling, strain the strawberry sauce to remove seeds.
• Chill Before Slicing – Refrigerate the rolls for at least an hour before slicing to help the flavors meld and keep the shape intact.
• Use Powdered Sugar on Parchment – Dust the parchment paper with powdered sugar before rolling to prevent sticking.
• Piping Bag for Even Filling – Use a piping bag to evenly spread the cheesecake filling for a clean, professional look.
• Adjust Sweetness to Taste – Depending on the sweetness of your strawberries, adjust the sugar in the filling or sauce as needed.
• Crumb Coating Option – Roll the finished rolls in crushed shortbread cookies or freeze-dried strawberry crumbs for extra texture.
• Store Properly – Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.

Recipe Variations for Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls

Try these fun variations:

• Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake Roll: Add cocoa powder to the cake batter for a chocolate version.
• Lemon Strawberry Roll: Add lemon zest to the batter for a citrusy twist.
• Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped toasted almonds or pecans over the topping.
• Berry Medley Roll: Mix in raspberries or blueberries with the strawberries for extra berry flavor.
• Gluten-Free Version: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.

Freezing and Storage for Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls

• Freezing: Wrap the roll tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
• Storage: Keep leftovers refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Special Equipment for Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls

• Electric mixer – For whipping the cheesecake filling to a smooth, creamy consistency.
• Mixing bowls – Various sizes for preparing the cake batter, filling, and toppings.
• Jelly roll pan (10×15 inches) – Essential for baking the sponge cake thin enough to roll.
• Parchment paper – Prevents sticking and makes it easier to roll the cake.
• Offset spatula – Helps spread the cheesecake filling evenly over the cake.
• Kitchen towel – Used to roll the warm cake to prevent cracking.
• Fine mesh sieve – For dusting powdered sugar on the cake to prevent sticking.
• Food processor – To crush the shortbread or cookies for the strawberry crunch topping.
• Piping bag with round tip – For neatly adding cheesecake filling if decorating.
• Cooling rack – Allows the cake to cool evenly before assembling.

Frequently Asked Questions for Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls

1. Can I use frozen strawberries?
   Fresh is best, but thawed and well-drained frozen strawberries can work.
2. Can I make this ahead?
   Yes! It’s best made a day in advance for the best texture.
3. What if my cake cracks?
   Cover minor cracks with whipped topping.
4. Can I use store-bought whipped cream?
   Yes, but homemade has the best flavor.

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Conclusion

Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls are a dreamy, creamy dessert that brings together soft sponge cake, luscious cheesecake filling, and a crunchy topping. Every bite is a perfect balance of light, rich, and delightfully sweet flavors.

This showstopping treat is perfect for special occasions or whenever you’re craving something indulgent. Whether you’re sharing with loved ones or treating yourself, these cheesecake rolls are sure to impress.

I’d love to see your Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Happy baking!