Imagine combining two classic desserts—strawberry shortcake and cheesecake—into one irresistible treat. Enter the Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Dessert Roll, a beautiful and indulgent dessert that’s perfect for celebrations, brunch, or as a showstopper at your next gathering.
Featuring a fluffy cake roll, luscious cheesecake filling, and juicy strawberries, it’s a treat as delightful to make as it is to eat.
This guide is your complete resource for creating the perfect Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Dessert Roll right at home. From a list of key ingredients to expert pro tips, we’ve covered every detail to ensure your dessert is a masterpiece.
Why Do People Love This Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Roll?
Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls are beloved for their stunning presentation and incredible blend of flavors. Here are some highlights of why this dessert steals the show every time:
- Versatile Appeal: Whether served at a birthday party, bridal shower, or a Sunday brunch, it’s versatile enough for any occasion.
- Flavor Harmony: The combination of fluffy cake, creamy cheesecake, and the fresh, sweet-tart punch of strawberries delivers the ultimate dessert experience.
- Eye-catching Aesthetic: With its rolled design and bright strawberry accents, this cheesecake roll serves as both a dessert and a table centerpiece.
- Customizable Recipe: Love extra cream? Prefer a chocolate element? This recipe can be customized to meet your preferences.
Ingredients Needed
Here’s a rundown of the ingredients you’ll need to create this dessert roll grandeur.
For the Cake Roll:
- 4 large eggs
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
For the Strawberry Filling:
- 1 ½ cups fresh strawberries, diced
- 2 tbsp sugar (optional, to enhance sweetness)
For Toppings and Garnishes:
- Crushed shortbread cookies or biscuit crumbs
- Additional whipped cream
- Sliced strawberries
Ingredient Details:
- Fresh Strawberries are crucial—they offer both a burst of color and a sweet-tart balance that enhances every bite.
- Room-Temperature Cream Cheese ensures a smooth, lump-free cheesecake filling.
Equipment Required
Before you begin, gather all necessary equipment to streamline your cooking process.
- Stand Mixer or Hand Mixer
- Jelly Roll Pan
- Kitchen Towel
- Mixing Bowls
- Sifter
These tools allow for precision, helping you achieve the perfect texture and presentation.
How to Make Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake
Step 1: Make the Strawberry Crumble Topping
Mix crushed freeze-dried strawberries, crushed vanilla wafers, and melted butter in a bowl. Stir until it forms a crumbly mixture. Spread it out on a baking tray lined with parchment paper and bake for a few minutes until lightly toasted. Let it cool completely.
Step 2: Bake the Cheesecake Layer
Preheat your oven. Beat cream cheese, sugar, and eggs in a bowl until smooth and creamy. Pour the mixture into a springform pan lined with parchment paper. Place the pan in a water bath (this helps prevent cracks) and bake. Once done, let it cool completely in the pan.
Step 3: Make the Strawberry Shortcake Base
Mix flour, baking powder, sugar, and cold butter until it looks like coarse crumbs. Slowly add milk until the dough comes together. Spread the dough in a baking tray and bake until golden. Let it cool.
Step 4: Assemble the Layers
Place the shortcake base on a serving dish. Carefully remove the cheesecake layer from its pan and place it on top of the shortcake. Trim the edges if needed to make them even.
Step 5: Add the Strawberry Cream Topping
Whip heavy cream, sugar, and strawberry puree until soft peaks form. Mix in a little softened cream cheese to make it more stable. Spread this cream over the cheesecake layer evenly.
Step 6: Garnish and Finish the Cake
Sprinkle the strawberry crumble topping over the cream layer. Add fresh strawberries on top if you’d like. Chill the cake in the fridge for at least 2 hours before slicing and serving.
Serving Ideas
- Serve with a drizzle of chocolate or strawberry syrup for added sweetness and visual appeal.
- Pair slices of the cake with a scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream for a decadent dessert experience.
- Add a dollop of freshly whipped cream and a mint leaf as an elegant garnish.
- Present the cake alongside a side of fresh mixed berries to complement its fruity flavors.
- Serve with a glass of sparkling wine or a hot cup of coffee to enhance the tasting experience.
Storage Tips
- Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy within 2-3 days.
- Want to plan ahead? Freeze the unfrosted roll for up to 2 months and thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Roll
Achieving professional-level results is all about attention to detail. Here are some expert tips to ensure your dessert shines:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh, ripe strawberries and high-quality cream cheese for the best flavor and texture. Fresh ingredients make a notable difference in the overall taste of your dessert.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: Gently fold your ingredients together to keep the batter light and airy. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture.
- Prepare Your Pan Properly: Line the baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease it to prevent sticking and ensure easy rolling. This step is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the cake.
- Cool Completely Before Rolling: Allow the cake to cool thoroughly before adding the filling and rolling it up. This prevents cracking and ensures the filling remains intact.
- Chill for Easy Slicing: Refrigerate the assembled roll for at least one hour before slicing. This firms up the cream cheese filling and makes for cleaner, more appealing slices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Frozen Strawberries?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but it’s important to thaw and drain them thoroughly before use. Excess liquid can affect the texture and consistency of the cake and filling.
What If My Cake Cracks?
If your cake cracks, don’t worry! Simply use the cream cheese filling to gently patch and seal the cracks. Once rolled and chilled, the imperfections will be less noticeable, and the cake will still taste delicious.
Can I Add Chocolate?
Absolutely! You can incorporate chocolate by adding cocoa powder to the cake batter or drizzling melted chocolate on top of the finished cake roll for an extra layer of flavor.
How Do I Prevent My Cake From Sticking?
To avoid sticking, be sure to line your baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease it before pouring in the batter. Additionally, allow the cake to cool slightly before attempting to remove it, as this can prevent tearing.
Can I Make This Cake Roll Ahead of Time?
Yes, this cake roll is perfect for preparing in advance! After rolling and chilling, you can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 1 month. Just make sure to wrap it tightly to maintain freshness before serving.
What If I Don’t Have a Jelly Roll Pan?
If you don’t have a jelly roll pan, a rimmed baking sheet with similar dimensions will work as a substitute. Ensure the sides are high enough to contain the batter, as it will rise slightly during baking.
Conclusion
Congratulations, you now have all the information and tips needed to make a show-stopping strawberry shortcake cheesecake roll. With its layers of creamy cheese, fresh strawberries, and buttery biscuit crust, this dessert is sure to impress any crowd. So gather your ingredients and equipment, follow our step-by-step instructions, and get ready to indulge in a mouthwatering sweet treat that’s perfect for any occasion! Happy baking!
Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Dessert Roll Recipe
Equipment
- Baking Sheet
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Spatula
- Kitchen Towel
- Fine mesh sieve
- Knife or serrated knife
Ingredients
For the Cake Roll:
- 4 large eggs
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
For the Strawberry Filling:
- 1 ½ cups fresh strawberries diced
- 2 tbsp sugar optional, to enhance sweetness
For Toppings and Garnishes:
- Crushed shortbread cookies or biscuit crumbs
- Additional whipped cream
- Sliced strawberries
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Strawberry Crumble Topping
- Mix crushed freeze-dried strawberries, crushed vanilla wafers, and melted butter in a bowl. Stir until it forms a crumbly mixture. Spread it out on a baking tray lined with parchment paper and bake for a few minutes until lightly toasted. Let it cool completely.
Step 2: Bake the Cheesecake Layer
- Preheat your oven. Beat cream cheese, sugar, and eggs in a bowl until smooth and creamy. Pour the mixture into a springform pan lined with parchment paper. Place the pan in a water bath (this helps prevent cracks) and bake. Once done, let it cool completely in the pan.
Step 3: Make the Strawberry Shortcake Base
- Mix flour, baking powder, sugar, and cold butter until it looks like coarse crumbs. Slowly add milk until the dough comes together. Spread the dough in a baking tray and bake until golden. Let it cool.
Step 4: Assemble the Layers
- Place the shortcake base on a serving dish. Carefully remove the cheesecake layer from its pan and place it on top of the shortcake. Trim the edges if needed to make them even.
Step 5: Add the Strawberry Cream Topping
- Whip heavy cream, sugar, and strawberry puree until soft peaks form. Mix in a little softened cream cheese to make it more stable. Spread this cream over the cheesecake layer evenly.
Step 6: Garnish and Finish the Cake
- Sprinkle the strawberry crumble topping over the cream layer. Add fresh strawberries on top if you’d like. Chill the cake in the fridge for at least 2 hours before slicing and serving.
