Sweet Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls

There’s something irresistible about the combination of sweet strawberries, rich cream cheese, and soft, cake-like texture—especially when it all comes together in a delightful swirl. Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls take everything you love about a classic strawberry shortcake and turn it into a visually stunning, flavor-packed dessert that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.

These rolls are a perfect marriage of fluffy sponge cake and velvety cheesecake filling, with bursts of fresh strawberry flavor in every bite. Rolled up into neat slices, each piece reveals a beautiful spiral of pink and white—making them ideal for birthdays, spring picnics, or anytime you want to serve something a little extra special.

Whether you’re looking for a light summer dessert, a crowd-pleaser for brunch, or a way to impress guests without spending all day in the kitchen, these strawberry rolls are a guaranteed win. With just the right balance of sweetness and tang, and a texture that melts in your mouth, they might just become your new go-to dessert.

Why You’ll Love Sweet Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls

Making these Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls isn’t just about creating a pretty dessert—it’s about enjoying a recipe that works on every level. From preparation to presentation, here’s why this treat stands out:

1. Simple to Make, Stunning to Serve

You don’t need advanced baking skills to pull off this dessert. With straightforward steps and common ingredients, you can create a beautiful rolled cake that looks bakery-quality without the stress.

2. Delicious Contrast of Flavors

Each bite offers a delicious mix of sweet strawberries, rich cream cheese, and soft sponge cake. The creamy filling balances the fruity brightness for a dessert that’s light yet satisfying.

3. Versatile for Any Occasion

These rolls work just as well for casual family dinners as they do for festive gatherings. Slice them up for a party platter or serve with a fork for a plated dessert—either way, they shine.

4. Make-Ahead Friendly

Want to get ahead on prep? You can refrigerate or freeze these rolls in advance, saving you time on the day of serving. They hold their shape and flavor beautifully.

5. Kid-Approved and Adult-Friendly

The fun spiral look and fruity flavor appeal to kids, while the cream cheese filling and soft texture make them elegant enough for grown-up tastes too.

6. Easily Customizable

Swap in other berries, add a chocolate drizzle, or try a gluten-free cake base—this recipe is flexible and open to creative spins based on your preferences.

Sweet Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls Ingredients

Here’s everything you need to make these Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls from scratch. The ingredients are grouped by component to keep your prep organized and stress-free.

For the Sponge Cake

• 4 large eggs, room temperature
• 120 g (½ cup) granulated sugar
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 100 g (¾ cup) all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ¼ tsp salt
• 2 tbsp whole milk
• Powdered sugar (for dusting the towel)

For the Strawberry Layer

• 200 g (1½ cups) fresh strawberries, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp sugar (optional, depending on the sweetness of the berries)

Optional swap: You can use 150 g frozen strawberries, thawed and drained well, if fresh aren’t available.

For the Cheesecake Filling

• 250 g (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
• 60 g (¼ cup) unsalted butter, softened
• 100 g (¾ cup) powdered sugar, sifted
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1–2 tbsp heavy cream (for smoother texture, optional)

Optional Garnish (for serving)

• Whipped cream
• Strawberry slices or whole berries
• White chocolate shavings
• Mint leaves

Tip: Use room temperature ingredients for the batter and filling to ensure a smooth texture and even mixing.

How to Make Sweet Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls

Follow these step-by-step directions to create your Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls. The process is straightforward and perfect for any baker, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro.

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Baking Sheet

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a 9×13-inch baking sheet with parchment paper, making sure the paper extends slightly over the edges to easily remove the cake later.

Step 2: Prepare the Sponge Cake Batter

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 5 minutes of whisking by hand or with a hand mixer.
2. Stir in the vanilla extract.
3. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, folding them in gently until combined. Be careful not to overmix to keep the batter light and airy.
5. Warm the milk slightly (about 20 seconds in the microwave), then fold it into the batter until just combined.

Step 3: Bake the Sponge Cake

1. Pour the batter into your prepared baking sheet, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
2. Bake for about 10-12 minutes or until the cake is golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
3. While baking, prepare a clean kitchen towel by dusting it generously with powdered sugar. This will prevent the cake from sticking when rolling.

Step 4: Roll the Cake

1. Once the cake is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
2. Carefully flip the cake onto the powdered sugar-dusted towel.
3. Peel off the parchment paper and begin to roll the cake up from the short end while it’s still warm, using the towel as a guide. Don’t worry if the cake cracks slightly—this is normal.
4. Allow the rolled cake to cool completely while it’s in the towel, so it holds its shape.

Step 5: Prepare the Strawberry Layer

1. While the cake is cooling, chop the fresh strawberries into small pieces.
2. In a small bowl, mix the strawberries with lemon juice and sugar (if desired). Let the strawberries sit for 10–15 minutes to release their juices and become syrupy.

Step 6: Make the Cheesecake Filling

1. In a large bowl, beat together the cream cheese and unsalted butter until smooth and creamy, about 2–3 minutes.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until the filling is light and fluffy.
3. If the filling is too thick, add 1 tablespoon of heavy cream at a time until you achieve a smooth, spreadable consistency.

Step 7: Assemble the Rolls

1. Once the cake is completely cool, unroll it gently and spread the cheesecake filling evenly over the surface, leaving a small border around the edges.
2. Spoon the prepared strawberries over the cheesecake filling, spreading them evenly.
3. Carefully re-roll the cake, starting from the short end, making sure not to squeeze too tightly. The filling may ooze slightly, but that’s part of the charm!

Step 8: Slice and Serve

1. Once the roll is formed, use a serrated knife to slice it into 1-inch pieces.
2. Arrange the rolls on a platter and garnish with a dollop of whipped cream, fresh strawberry slices, or a drizzle of white chocolate for an extra touch of elegance.

Tips & Variations for Sweet Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls

Tips for Perfect Rolls

• Don’t overmix the batter: When incorporating the dry ingredients into the wet, be gentle. Overmixing can lead to a dense, rubbery texture instead of the light, airy sponge cake you want.
  
• Let the cake cool completely: It’s crucial to allow the cake to cool on the towel before unrolling. This helps the cake retain its shape and prevents it from tearing when you roll it.
  
• Use room temperature ingredients: This includes both your eggs and cream cheese. Room temperature ingredients blend together better, ensuring a smooth texture in both the cake and filling.
  
• Fresh strawberries are key: For the best flavor and texture, use fresh strawberries that are ripe but firm. If your strawberries are a little too soft, chill them for 30 minutes before using them in the filling.

Variations to Try

1. Berry Mix-Up: While strawberries are the star here, feel free to mix it up! Try raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries for a different twist. You can even combine a few varieties for a mixed-berry version.
   
2. Gluten-Free Option: Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe gluten-free. Ensure you also use certified gluten-free baking powder to avoid cross-contamination.
   
3. Add a Chocolate Twist: If you’re a chocolate lover, add some melted chocolate to the cream cheese filling or drizzle it on top of the finished rolls for an extra indulgent touch. A white chocolate drizzle also complements the strawberries beautifully.
   
4. Dairy-Free Alternative: Swap out the cream cheese for a dairy-free cream cheese alternative and use a dairy-free butter. For the filling, you can use coconut milk or almond milk instead of heavy cream to keep it creamy without dairy.
   
5. Lemon Zest in the Filling: If you want to add a refreshing citrus flavor, stir some finely grated lemon zest into the cheesecake filling. This pairs wonderfully with the strawberries and adds a bit of brightness to the overall flavor.
   
6. Spiced Roll: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the sponge cake batter for a cozy, spiced flavor that complements the fruit and cream filling.

Make-Ahead Tips

• Refrigeration: Once you’ve rolled up the cake and filled it, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. This not only enhances the flavor but also makes it easier to slice when ready to serve.
  
• Freezing: These rolls freeze well, too! If you want to make them ahead of time, freeze the unfilled, rolled cake for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight and then add the cheesecake filling and strawberries before serving.

Perfect Ways to Serve Sweet Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls

These Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls are a delightful treat, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them at a family gathering, a dinner party, or simply as a sweet indulgence, here are some creative ways to present and enjoy them:

1. Elegant Platter Display

For a show-stopping presentation, arrange the rolls on a large serving platter in a spiral or row formation. Garnish with fresh strawberry slices, a drizzle of whipped cream, and a few mint leaves for a pop of color. You can also sprinkle some powdered sugar on top for a delicate, snowy effect.

2. Individual Serving Cups

Serve each roll in individual dessert cups or bowls for a charming, personal touch. Add a dollop of whipped cream and top with a few fresh berries. This presentation is perfect for special events like baby showers, birthday parties, or intimate dinner gatherings.

3. With a Side of Ice Cream

Pair your cheesecake rolls with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or strawberry sorbet. The cool, creamy ice cream contrasts perfectly with the soft, slightly tangy cheesecake rolls. For an extra touch, top with a drizzle of chocolate sauce or caramel syrup.

4. Tea Party Delight

These rolls are an excellent addition to a tea party or brunch spread. Serve alongside other light pastries like scones, fruit tarts, and a pot of Earl Grey tea or iced tea. The sweetness of the rolls pairs beautifully with the floral notes of the tea.

5. Chocolate Lovers’ Delight

For a decadent twist, drizzle melted chocolate over each roll. Dark or milk chocolate both complement the strawberries and cheesecake filling beautifully. You can also sprinkle some chocolate shavings or a dusting of cocoa powder for a rich, indulgent finish.

6. Serve as a Buffet Dessert

These rolls are perfect for serving at dessert buffets. Arrange them alongside other bite-sized desserts like mini cheesecakes, fruit skewers, and cookie bites. Guests will love the variety, and the strawberry rolls will surely steal the spotlight.

7. Pair with Fresh Berries

Enhance the fresh flavors of the rolls by serving them with a bowl of assorted fresh berries such as blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries. The different textures and tastes create a delightful balance to the sweet and creamy rolls.

Conclusion

Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls are the perfect fusion of two beloved desserts: the classic shortcake and rich cheesecake. This recipe offers the best of both worlds—light, fluffy cake, creamy cheesecake filling, and sweet, juicy strawberries, all wrapped in one delicious roll.

Whether you’re preparing them for a special occasion, a weekend treat, or simply a cozy afternoon snack, these rolls are sure to impress. Not only do they taste fantastic, but their beautiful presentation will make them a standout at any gathering.

With customizable variations to suit your dietary needs and preferences, this dessert is as versatile as it is delicious. Plus, it’s easy to make ahead, so you can save time without sacrificing flavor.

Treat yourself, your friends, and your family to these Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls, and you’ll have a dessert that’s sure to be a hit every time.

---

Explore More Delicious Dessert Recipes

• Heavenly Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake
• Caramel Cloud Cake
• Stunning Pavlova Wreath with Berries
• Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls

---

FAQ

1. Can I make Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls in advance?

Yes, you can make these rolls ahead of time. After rolling and filling the cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. This will allow the flavors to meld and make it easier to slice. You can also freeze the unfilled, rolled cake and add the filling just before serving.

2. Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh ones?

While fresh strawberries are ideal for this recipe, you can use frozen strawberries if fresh ones aren’t available. Just make sure to thaw and drain the frozen strawberries to remove excess moisture. This will help maintain the integrity of the filling.

3. Can I substitute the cream cheese in the filling?

Yes, you can substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese or Greek yogurt if you’re looking for a lighter or dairy-free alternative. The texture may be slightly different, but the flavor will still be delicious.

4. How can I prevent the cake from cracking when rolling it?

To avoid cracking, make sure you let the cake cool on the towel completely before unrolling it. This helps the cake retain its shape. Also, don’t roll it too tightly. A loose roll allows the cake to hold its structure without breaking.

5. Can I use a different type of cake for the rolls?

Absolutely! While the sponge cake used in this recipe is light and perfect for rolling, you can experiment with other cakes like angel food cake or a pound cake for a different texture. Just keep in mind that a denser cake may not roll as easily.

6. How do I store leftover rolls?

Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.

7. Can I make the rolls without the cheesecake filling?

Yes, if you prefer a simpler version, you can skip the cheesecake filling and fill the rolls with whipped cream and fresh strawberries for a lighter alternative. This variation still offers a delicious dessert with a fluffy, fruity flavor.

8. What can I use instead of powdered sugar for garnish?

If you’re looking for a healthier alternative to powdered sugar, you can use coconut sugar, granulated stevia, or crushed almonds for a nutty finish. You can also drizzle a little honey for a natural sweetness.