Introduction
Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls combine three beloved desserts into one spectacular treat: fluffy cake, creamy cheesecake filling, and sweet, juicy strawberries. Rolled into elegant spirals and topped with strawberry shortcake crumbs, these dessert rolls deliver a perfect balance of light texture, rich creaminess, and fresh fruit flavor.
What Are Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls?
Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls are made by baking a thin sponge-style cake, spreading it with a smooth cheesecake filling, layering fresh strawberries, and rolling it tightly into a log. The finished roll is chilled, sliced, and often topped with strawberry shortcake crumbs or whipped topping for a visually stunning and indulgent dessert.
Unlike traditional layered cakes, these rolls offer clean slices, balanced portions, and an impressive presentation with minimal decoration effort.
Why This Dessert Is So Popular
- Combines classic strawberry shortcake with cheesecake
- Elegant presentation with simple techniques
- Light yet indulgent texture
- Perfect make-ahead dessert
- Slices cleanly for serving crowds
It’s a show-stopping dessert that feels luxurious without being overly heavy.
Key Components and Their Role
Sponge Cake
Acts as the flexible base that allows rolling without cracking.
Cheesecake Filling
Provides richness, tang, and creamy structure.
Strawberries
Add freshness, sweetness, and natural acidity to balance the cream.
Shortcake Crumbs
Deliver classic strawberry shortcake flavor and gentle crunch.
Choosing the Best Ingredients
Strawberries
- Use fresh, ripe strawberries for best flavor
- Dice finely to prevent excess moisture
Cream Cheese
- Full-fat cream cheese yields the best texture
- Bring to room temperature before mixing
Cake Flour
Creates a tender, flexible sponge that rolls easily
Equipment You’ll Need
- Jelly roll pan (10×15-inch)
- Parchment paper
- Electric mixer
- Offset spatula
- Clean kitchen towel
Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls Recipe
Ingredients (Serves 10–12)
Sponge Cake
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¾ cup cake flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Cheesecake Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ¾ cup heavy whipping cream
Strawberry Layer
- 1½ cups fresh strawberries, finely diced
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
Topping
- 1 cup strawberry shortcake crumbs or crushed vanilla cookies
- Optional whipped cream
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a jelly roll pan with parchment paper and lightly grease.
Step 2: Make the Sponge Cake
Beat eggs and sugar until pale and thick. Gently fold in flour, baking powder, salt, and vanilla until just combined.
Step 3: Bake
Spread batter evenly in the pan and bake for 10–12 minutes, until lightly golden and springy.
Step 4: Roll While Warm
Turn cake onto a towel dusted with powdered sugar. Remove parchment and roll gently from the short end. Allow to cool completely.
Step 5: Prepare Cheesecake Filling
Beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Whip cream separately, then fold into cream cheese mixture.
Step 6: Prepare Strawberries
Toss diced strawberries with sugar and let sit for 5 minutes. Drain excess liquid.
Step 7: Assemble
Unroll cooled cake. Spread cheesecake filling evenly, leaving a small border. Sprinkle strawberries evenly over filling.
Step 8: Roll and Chill
Roll cake tightly, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
Step 9: Decorate and Serve
Top with whipped cream and strawberry shortcake crumbs. Slice and serve chilled.
Tips for Perfect Cheesecake Rolls
- Roll cake while warm to prevent cracking
- Avoid overfilling
- Chill thoroughly before slicing
- Use a sharp knife, wiped clean between cuts
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overbaking the sponge cake
- Using cold cream cheese
- Adding wet strawberries without draining
- Rushing the chilling process
Variations and Creative Twists
Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake Rolls
Add cocoa powder to sponge and drizzle with chocolate.
No-Bake Version
Use store-bought cake sheets or crepes.
Lemon Strawberry Roll
Add lemon zest to cheesecake filling.
Mini Rolls
Cut cake into strips and roll individually.
Serving Suggestions
- Perfect for birthdays and holidays
- Serve with coffee or tea
- Garnish with fresh strawberries or mint
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Refrigerate up to 3 days
- Freeze whole roll (without topping) up to 1 month
- Thaw overnight in refrigerator
Nutritional Information (Approximate per Slice)
- Calories: 360
- Fat: 22 g
- Carbohydrates: 34 g
- Protein: 6 g
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes, it’s best when chilled and can be made a day in advance.
Why did my cake crack?
Overbaking or rolling when cold are the most common causes.
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Fresh is best; frozen strawberries release too much moisture.
Why Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls Always Impress
This dessert succeeds by balancing light sponge cake, creamy cheesecake filling, and fresh fruit—creating a visually stunning and crowd-pleasing treat.
Final Thoughts
Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls are the ultimate fusion dessert: elegant, flavorful, and surprisingly approachable. With proper technique and quality ingredients, this recipe delivers bakery-worthy results that are guaranteed to impress guests and satisfy sweet cravings.
Once you make it, this dessert is sure to become a go-to for special occasions and celebrations.
Print
Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls (Irresistible, Creamy & Bakery-Style)
Ingredients
• 1 (8 oz) tube refrigerated crescent roll dough (or vegan crescent dough)
• 4 oz (115g) cream cheese, softened
• 2 tbsp powdered sugar
• ½ tsp vanilla extract
• ¾ cup fresh strawberries, finely diced + patted dry
• 1 tbsp melted butter or coconut oil (for brushing)
• Optional: extra powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment.
- Cheesecake filling: Beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth and fluffy. Fold in diced strawberries (squeeze gently in a paper towel first to remove excess juice—prevents soggy rolls!).
- Unroll crescent dough; separate into 8 triangles. Do not press perforations together—keep them distinct for easy rolling.
- Spoon ~1½ tbsp cheesecake-strawberry mix down the center of each triangle.
- Starting at the wide end, roll tightly toward the tip. Curve ends slightly inward to form a crescent. Place on sheet, point-side down.
- Brush lightly with melted butter.
- Bake 12–14 min until golden brown and puffed.
- Cool 5–10 min (filling is molten hot!). Dust with powdered sugar. Serve warm or room temp.
PREP TIME & NUTRITION (per roll, makes 8):
Prep Time: 15 min | Cook Time: 14 min | Total Time: 30 min | Servings: 8 | Calories: 180 | Net Carbs: 18g | Fats: 11g | Protein: 3g