Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls Recipe

If you are looking for a dessert that perfectly marries the luscious creaminess of cheesecake with the classic, fruity charm of strawberry shortcake, you’ve found it. This Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls Recipe is like a little celebration wrapped in every bite, combining soft, buttery shortcake dough with a rich, velvety cheesecake filling and juicy strawberries. Whether you’re treating yourself or impressing friends, these rolls deliver unforgettable flavors and a stunning presentation that is surprisingly easy to make.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple yet essential ingredients is the first step to creating a dessert full of texture, freshness, and sweetness. Each item plays a vital role, from the tender crumb of the shortcake dough to the creamy cheesecake center and the vibrant strawberry topping.

• All-purpose flour (1 ½ cups): Provides the structure for the scrumptious shortcake dough, balancing soft and sturdy perfectly.
• Baking powder (2 teaspoons): Helps the dough rise just enough to be tender but not too cakey.
• Salt (¼ teaspoon): Enhances the flavors in every bite, making the sweetness pop.
• Sugar (3 tablespoons): Adds a subtle sweetness to the dough, harmonizing with the filling.
• Unsalted butter, softened (½ cup): Makes the dough rich and flaky, for that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Heavy cream (½ cup + ½ cup): Two different uses here: one to bind the dough and one whipped into the filling for luscious fluffiness.
• Vanilla extract (2 teaspoons total): Two helpsings for magic—one for the dough and one for the cheesecake filling.
• Large egg (1, for egg wash): Gives the rolls a beautiful golden finish when baked.
• Cream cheese, softened (8 oz): The star ingredient in the filling, bringing creamy decadence.
• Powdered sugar (½ cup): Sweetens the filling smoothly without grit.
• Fresh strawberries (2 cups, hulled and sliced): Bursting with freshness and juiciness, these brighten up the rolls.
• Sugar (2 tablespoons, optional): Optional for macerating strawberries to develop deeper sweetness and syrupy juices.

How to Make Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. This setup makes baking clean and ensures your rolls don’t stick or lose their perfect shape.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

Whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar in a medium bowl. This step ensures even distribution of leavening and sweetness for an even rise and consistent flavor throughout your shortcake dough.

Step 3: Combine Butter and Dry Mix

Add the softened butter to the dry ingredients. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to rub the butter in until it looks like coarse crumbs. This technique creates that perfect flaky texture and tender crumb for your shortcake base.

Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients to Form Dough

Pour in the heavy cream and vanilla extract and gently stir until just combined. Overmixing can toughen the dough, so keep the mixing light and quick to retain tenderness.

Step 5: Roll Out the Dough

Lightly flour your surface and turn out the dough. Roll it carefully into a rectangle about ¼-inch thick. This thin layer ensures the cheesecake fills every bite without overwhelming dough.

Step 6: Prepare the Creamy Cheesecake Filling

Beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together until smooth and luscious. This silky base is what makes these rolls uniquely decadent.

Step 7: Whip Heavy Cream and Fold In

Whip the ½ cup of heavy cream to stiff peaks, then gently fold it into the cream cheese mixture. This step lightens the filling, making each bite airy and rich at the same time.

Step 8: Assemble the Rolls

Spread the cheesecake filling evenly over your rolled-out dough, leaving a small border around the edges. This border helps keep the filling inside while baking.

Step 9: Roll and Slice

Starting from one long side, roll the dough up tightly into a log shape. Then cut it into 8 to 10 even slices. Each roll will beautifully showcase swirls of creamy filling and shortcake.

Step 10: Prepare for Baking

Place the rolls in a greased or lined baking dish with a little space between each one. Brush the tops with the beaten egg for a shiny, golden crust that looks as good as it tastes.

Step 11: Bake Until Golden

Bake for 15 to 18 minutes until the rolls are puffed, golden brown, and cooked through. The smell will fill your kitchen with irresistible warmth and sweetness.

Step 12: Macerate the Strawberries

While the rolls bake, toss the sliced strawberries with sugar if you like and let them sit for 10 to 15 minutes. This step releases their juices, making the topping juicy and vibrant with flavor.

Step 13: Serve and Enjoy

Once the rolls are slightly cooled, spoon the macerated strawberries generously over the top. The contrast of warm rolls, creamy filling, and fresh strawberries is heavenly.

How to Serve Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls Recipe

Garnishes

Adding a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar instantly elevates these rolls. A few fresh mint leaves also bring a hint of color and freshness that complements the strawberries wonderfully.

Side Dishes

Serve these rolls alongside a simple fruit salad or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert spread. For a lighter option, pair them with a refreshing herbal tea or sparkling lemonade to balance the richness.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving these rolls in mini mason jars layered with additional strawberry slices and crushed shortcake crumbs for a fun and portable presentation. Alternatively, place them on a pretty platter garnished with edible flowers for your next brunch gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls covered tightly in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to three days without losing their creamy texture or moist dough.

Freezing

You can freeze unbaked rolls by placing them on a tray until firm, then transferring to a freezer-safe bag for up to one month. Thaw in the fridge overnight and then bake as usual for fresh-baked flavor anytime.

Reheating

To warm leftover rolls, pop them into a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through. Avoid microwaving if possible, as this can make the dough soggy and the filling unevenly warm.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

While fresh strawberries work best for their texture and vibrant flavor, you can use thawed frozen strawberries if needed. Just drain excess liquid well to avoid soggy rolls.

Is there a substitute for heavy cream in the filling?

Heavy cream is key for whipping into stiff peaks to lighten the filling, but you can try chilled coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative with a mild coconut flavor.

How do I prevent the rolls from getting soggy?

Make sure to leave a border around the dough when spreading the filling to keep it from leaking. Also, macerate strawberries just before serving to avoid excessive liquid seeping into the rolls.

Can I make these vegan?

With some recipe tweaks—like using dairy-free cream cheese, vegan butter, and egg replacer—you can make a vegan version, although some texture changes might occur.

What is the best way to roll the dough tightly?

Use gentle but firm pressure, and start rolling from the longer edge to create more spirals. This tight rolling prevents gaps and helps the rolls hold their shape during baking.

Final Thoughts

I truly can’t recommend this Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls Recipe enough. Each bite bursts with that perfect balance of creaminess, sweetness, and fresh fruit that’s sure to brighten any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying something new, these rolls are a joyful project that rewards you (and your friends) with pure dessert bliss. Give them a try and watch smiles bloom!

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