Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls
bring together the creamy richness of cheesecake with the fresh, sweet burst of strawberries, all encased in a delicate crepe or cake roll. This delightful fusion offers a modern twist on the classic strawberry shortcake, making it ideal for summer gatherings, brunches, or special occasions. The rolls are visually stunning and taste as wonderful as they look, with a balance of creamy, fruity, and crunchy textures in every bite.
As a no-bake dessert, these cheesecake rolls are also incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients. Whether you’re preparing a treat for family or entertaining guests, these rolls will impress with their flavor and fun sushi-roll style presentation. Serve them chilled with a dusting of powdered sugar for a refined yet playful dessert that highlights the best of fresh summer strawberries.
Ingredients
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 1/2 cup fresh strawberries, finely chopped
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup strawberry jam
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- 1/4 cup crushed golden sandwich cookies (for topping, optional)
- 1 tablespoon melted butter (for brushing)
Directions
1.Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2.In a small bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
3.On a lightly floured surface, unfold the puff pastry and gently roll it out to slightly enlarge. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the surface.
4.Spread a thin layer of strawberry jam over the cream cheese, then sprinkle the chopped strawberries on top.
5.Starting from one edge, roll the pastry tightly into a log. Slice into 6–8 even rolls.
6.Place the rolls flat on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops lightly with egg wash.
7.Bake for 18–22 minutes or until golden and puffed.
8.Once out of the oven, brush with melted butter and sprinkle with crushed cookies for a shortcake-style topping, if desired.
9.Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm or chilled as a dessert or sweet snack.
Tips for Success
Achieving the perfect Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls is easy with a few helpful tips:
Use Fresh, Ripe Strawberries: Fresh strawberries are key to achieving the vibrant, sweet-tart flavor in this dessert. Look for strawberries that are firm, bright red, and fragrant for the best results. The fresher the berries, the more intense and natural the flavor will be.
Let the Rolls Chill Thoroughly: Chilling the rolls in the refrigerator allows the flavors to meld and the cheesecake filling to firm up, making the rolls easier to slice and serve. Ideally, let them chill for at least an hour or even overnight for the best texture.
Experiment with Presentation: Don’t be afraid to get creative with garnishes and plating. The sushi roll format lends itself to unique presentations, so consider adding colorful garnishes or arranging the rolls in a pattern on the plate for added visual appeal.
Add Flavor Layers: If you want to intensify the flavor, try adding a layer of fruit jam or curd to the roll before wrapping it up. A thin layer of strawberry or raspberry jam can bring an additional pop of fruit flavor and a touch of sweetness.
Serving and Storage Tips
Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls are best served chilled, allowing the cheesecake filling to set and retain its structure. After chilling, slice each roll into bite-sized pieces, displaying the beautiful layers for an impressive presentation. These rolls are perfect for a variety of occasions, from family gatherings to potlucks or holiday celebrations, and are an excellent choice for summer events, as they highlight fresh seasonal strawberries.
If you’re planning to serve the rolls at a later time, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be kept fresh for up to two days, making them a convenient make-ahead option. Just be sure to add the powdered sugar garnish just before serving to prevent it from dissolving into the roll’s surface.
