Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls Recipe

If you have a sweet tooth and love desserts that bring a smile with every bite, the Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls Recipe is about to become your new obsession. Imagine a tender, buttery shortcake dough rolled up with a luscious, creamy cheesecake filling, baked to golden perfection, and crowned with juicy, sweet strawberries that burst with freshness. This delightful fusion takes the classic strawberry shortcake and turns it into a fun, shareable roll that’s perfect for brunches, tea parties, or simply treating yourself. With its irresistible balance of creamy and fruity goodness wrapped in soft, warm dough, this Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls Recipe is the dessert hug you didn’t know you needed.

Ingredients You’ll Need

All the ingredients for this recipe are simple pantry staples and fresh produce, yet each one plays a vital role in creating the perfect harmony of flavors and textures. From the fluffy shortcake dough to the silky cheesecake filling and juicy strawberries, every element complements the others beautifully.

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour: The foundation for the soft, tender shortcake base.
• 2 teaspoons baking powder: Helps the dough rise to a light and fluffy texture.
• ¼ teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
• 3 tablespoons sugar: Adds a subtle sweetness to the dough.
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened: Gives the shortcake a rich, buttery flavor and tender crumb.
• ½ cup heavy cream: Keeps the dough moist and lends creaminess.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses a warm, aromatic note throughout the dough.
• 1 large egg (for egg wash): Brushed on top for a glossy, golden finish.
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened: The star of the cheesecake filling—smooth and tangy.
• ½ cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the filling without graininess.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds fragrant depth to the cheesecake layer.
• ½ cup heavy cream: Whipped and folded into the cream cheese for lightness.
• 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced: Brings freshness and vibrant color.
• 2 tablespoons sugar (optional): Helps macerate the strawberries, making them juicy and sweet.

How to Make Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This ensures the rolls bake evenly and don’t stick, setting you up for success right from the beginning.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. This step mixes all your dry components for the shortcake and guarantees your dough rises perfectly fluffy with a balanced sweetness.

Step 3: Incorporate Butter

Add the softened butter to the dry mix and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to combine until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs. This technique ensures little pockets of butter throughout the dough, which will melt during baking to create that signature flaky texture.

Step 4: Add Cream and Vanilla

Pour in the heavy cream and vanilla extract. Stir gently until just combined—overmixing can toughen the dough, so be gentle to keep your rolls tender and light.

Step 5: Roll Out the Dough

Tip the dough onto a lightly floured surface and carefully roll it into a rectangle about ¼ inch thick. This creates the perfect canvas for spreading the creamy filling. A consistent thickness ensures even baking and a beautifully uniform roll.

Step 6: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

Beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and velvety. This luscious mixture is the heart of your rolls—rich but light due to the next step.

Step 7: Whip Heavy Cream and Fold In

Whip the heavy cream separately until stiff peaks form, then gently fold it into the cream cheese mixture. This addition introduces airiness, turning the filling into a dreamy cheesecake mousse that melts in your mouth.

Step 8: Assemble the Rolls

Spread the cheesecake filling evenly over the rolled-out dough, leaving a border around the edges. This border helps seal the rolls when rolled up and prevents the filling from oozing out during baking.

Step 9: Roll and Slice

Starting from one long edge, roll the dough tightly but gently to avoid cracking. Once rolled, slice it into 8 to 10 even pieces—each one a delicious little swirl of cheesecake and dough.

Step 10: Bake to Golden Perfection

Place the slices in a greased or lined baking dish, leaving a gap between each so they can expand while baking. Brush the tops with the beaten egg, which will give them that irresistible golden sheen. Bake for 15-18 minutes until they’re puffed, golden brown, and utterly inviting.

Step 11: Macerate Strawberries

While the rolls bake, mix the sliced strawberries with sugar (if you choose to use it) and let them sit for 10-15 minutes. This step softens the berries and releases their sweet juices, perfect for topping those creamy rolls.

Step 12: Serve and Enjoy!

Once your rolls have cooled just a bit, spoon generous amounts of macerated strawberries on top to finish this showstopper dessert. Each bite brings together buttery dough, tangy-sweet cream cheese, and vibrant, juicy strawberries—pure bliss.

How to Serve Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls Recipe

Garnishes

Top your rolls with extra fresh strawberry slices or a dollop of whipped cream for an elegant finish. A sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of honey can add an inviting sparkle and extra sweetness that makes these rolls truly irresistible.

Side Dishes

Pair your rolls with a simple vanilla ice cream or a refreshing fruit salad to complement their richness. A hot cup of tea or coffee provides the perfect contrast to the sweet, creamy layers and enhances the dessert experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve these rolls on a rustic wooden board or a pretty cake stand for a stunning presentation at your next gathering. For extra fun, try layering them in a trifle bowl with alternating layers of strawberries and whipped cream for a no-fuss dessert that wows visually and taste-wise.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps keep the cheesecake filling fresh and the shortcake dough tender. Bring them to room temperature before serving for best texture.

Freezing

You can freeze unbaked rolls by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then placing them in a freezer bag for up to a month. When ready, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed for fresh-from-the-oven magic.

Reheating

Warm refrigerated or thawed rolls in a 350°F oven for about 5-7 minutes to revive their soft, flaky texture and melty filling. Avoid microwaving, which can make the dough tough or the filling separate.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

While fresh strawberries give the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen if fresh aren’t available. Just thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture making the rolls soggy.

Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute the butter, cream cheese, and heavy cream with plant-based alternatives like vegan butter, dairy-free cream cheese, and coconut cream. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.

Can I add other fruits besides strawberries?

Absolutely! Blueberries, raspberries, or sliced peaches work wonderfully and bring their own unique flavors to this delightful roll-up dessert.

What’s the best way to slice the rolls evenly?

Use a sharp serrated knife and a gentle sawing motion. If the dough feels sticky, lightly flour the knife or chill the rolled dough for 10 minutes to firm it up before slicing.

Can I prepare the cheesecake filling a day ahead?

Yes, preparing the filling in advance can save time. Keep it covered in the refrigerator and whip it gently before spreading to refresh the texture.

Final Thoughts

This Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls Recipe is one of those magical desserts that feels both indulgent and comforting at the same time. Its perfect blend of fluffy shortcake, creamy cheesecake, and fresh strawberries creates a joyful treat that’s sure to impress everyone around your table. Don’t wait for a special occasion; try making these rolls soon and discover just how quickly they become a beloved favorite in your recipe collection.

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