Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls are the ultimate show-stopping dessert that combines fluffy sponge cake, rich cheesecake filling, and fresh strawberries into one irresistible treat. These Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls taste like a nostalgic strawberry shortcake ice cream bar but in an elegant cake roll form. With creamy filling, vibrant strawberry flavor, and a soft, tender cake base, this recipe is perfect for Valentine’s Day, summer gatherings, birthdays, or anytime you want a dessert that looks impressive but is surprisingly easy to make.
Key Takeaways
• Beautiful bakery-style dessert at home
• Creamy cheesecake filling with fresh strawberries
• Soft sponge cake roll texture
• Perfect for holidays and summer parties
• Make-ahead friendly dessert
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are so many reasons to love these Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls. First, the flavor combination is unbeatable—sweet strawberries paired with creamy cheesecake and soft cake creates a perfectly balanced dessert. Second, the texture is incredible: smooth filling inside, fluffy cake outside, and a slightly crumbly strawberry coating that adds both flavor and visual appeal. This recipe also looks impressive when sliced, making it ideal for entertaining. Even beginners can follow the step-by-step method and achieve beautiful results.
Ingredients
For the Sponge Cake:
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
4 large eggs
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons milk
For the Cheesecake Filling:
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 cup heavy whipping cream
For the Strawberry Layer:
1 cup finely crushed strawberry shortcake crumbs or freeze-dried strawberries
1 cup diced fresh strawberries
Equipment
9×13-inch baking pan
Parchment paper
Mixing bowls
Electric mixer
Spatula
Cooling rack
Plastic wrap
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper. Lightly grease the parchment.
In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
In a separate large bowl, beat eggs and sugar until light and fluffy. Add vanilla extract and milk. Gradually fold in the dry ingredients until combined.
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan and bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the cake springs back when lightly touched.
While the cake is still warm, carefully roll it up with the parchment paper starting from the short side. Let it cool completely in the rolled shape.
For the filling, beat softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add vanilla extract. In another bowl, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form, then gently fold it into the cream cheese mixture.
Once the cake is completely cool, carefully unroll it. Spread the cheesecake filling evenly across the surface, then sprinkle diced fresh strawberries over the filling.
Roll the cake back up tightly without the parchment paper. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to set.
Before serving, coat the outside with strawberry crumbs and garnish with whipped cream and fresh strawberries.
Tips & Variations
Chill the cake before slicing for cleaner cuts.
Use strawberry jam lightly brushed inside for extra flavor.
Swap strawberries with raspberries or blueberries for variation.
Add white chocolate drizzle for an elegant finish.
Make mini rolls for party-friendly portions.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls chilled for best texture. They pair beautifully with coffee, iced tea, or sparkling lemonade. This dessert works perfectly for Valentine’s Day celebrations, baby showers, birthday parties, or summer picnics.
Storage & Reheating
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Do not freeze once fully assembled, as the texture may change.
Slice just before serving for the freshest appearance.
Nutrition (approx.)
Calories: 320 per slice
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fat: 20g
Protein: 5g
Sugar: 21g
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, prepare it one day in advance and refrigerate until serving.
Do I need a jelly roll pan?
A standard 9×13-inch pan works well for this recipe.
Can I use store-bought cake?
For best results, use homemade sponge cake, but pre-made thin sponge sheets can work.
Why did my cake crack?
Rolling while warm helps prevent cracking. Be gentle during unrolling and rerolling.
Conclusion
Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls are the perfect combination of creamy, fruity, and fluffy textures all in one stunning dessert. Easy enough for beginners yet impressive enough for special occasions, this recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimal fuss. Once you try this sweet strawberry cheesecake roll, it will quickly become a favorite in your dessert collection.