Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls

When it comes to strawberry recipes, few desserts can match the deliciousness of Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls. These rolls combine the classic flavors of strawberry shortcake and rich cheesecake in a soft, golden pastry. With a sweet strawberry filling, a creamy cheesecake layer, and a buttery crust, this dessert is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making them for a summer party, a holiday gathering, or just as a special treat for yourself, these rolls are sure to impress.

In this article, you’ll learn everything about Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls, including key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, presentation tips, creative twists, and expert tips to customize them to your taste.

Key Ingredients and Their Roles

Understanding the ingredients is essential for making the best strawberry recipes like these cheesecake rolls. Here’s what you’ll need and why:

1. Strawberries – The Star of the Recipe

Fresh or frozen strawberries provide the fruity sweetness and tanginess that give this dessert its signature shortcake flavor.
They add natural moisture, making the filling juicy and flavorful.

2. Cream Cheese – The Cheesecake Layer

Cream cheese is the base of the rich and smooth cheesecake filling.
It adds a slight tang that balances the sweetness of the strawberries and sugar.

3. Sugar – Sweetness Enhancer

Granulated sugar sweetens both the strawberry filling and the cheesecake mixture.
Powdered sugar is used for the topping or glaze.

4. Vanilla Extract – Flavor Booster

Enhances the overall flavor by adding depth to both the filling and the cheesecake mixture.

5. Eggs – Binding Agent

Helps the cheesecake filling set and hold its structure.

6. Butter – Adds Richness

Used in the pastry dough and as a finishing glaze for a golden-brown crust.

7. Flour – The Foundation

The key ingredient in the dough, providing structure and texture to the rolls.

8. Baking Powder – Helps with Fluffiness

Ensures that the dough rises properly, making the rolls light and tender.

9. Milk or Heavy Cream – Adds Moisture

Used in the cheesecake mixture and dough to keep them soft and creamy.

10. Crushed Shortbread Cookies or Graham Crackers – The Crunchy Element

Mimics the shortcake texture and adds a slight crunch to the rolls.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Cooling Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 8 rolls

Ingredients

For the Dough:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsalted butter (cold and cubed)
1/4 cup sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup milk

For the Cheesecake Filling:

8 oz cream cheese (softened)
1/4 cup sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 egg

For the Strawberry Filling:

1 1/2 cups chopped strawberries
1/4 cup sugar
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1/2 teaspoon lemon juice

For the Topping:

1/2 cup crushed shortbread cookies or graham crackers
2 tablespoons melted butter
Powdered sugar for dusting

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
Cut in cold butter using a fork or pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Gradually add milk and mix until a dough forms.
Roll out the dough into a rectangle on a floured surface.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a separate bowl, beat softened cream cheese, sugar, vanilla extract, and egg until smooth.
Set aside for spreading onto the dough.

Step 3: Prepare the Strawberry Filling

In a saucepan, combine strawberries, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice.
Cook over medium heat, stirring, until the mixture thickens.
Let it cool before spreading.

Step 4: Assemble the Rolls

Spread the cheesecake mixture evenly over the rolled-out dough.
Spread the cooled strawberry filling on top.
Gently roll the dough from one side to the other, like a jelly roll.
Slice into 1-inch rolls and place them on a greased baking sheet.

Step 5: Bake

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Let them cool before adding the topping.

Step 6: Add the Topping

Mix crushed shortbread cookies with melted butter.
Sprinkle the mixture over the rolls.
Dust with powdered sugar for extra sweetness.

Presentation Tips

Serve on a white plate to highlight the vibrant strawberry filling.
Drizzle with a light vanilla glaze for extra flavor.
Garnish with fresh strawberry slices for a fresh touch.

Creative Twists for the best Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls

Want to experiment with different flavors? Here are some ideas:

Chocolate Lover’s Twist: Add chocolate chips to the cheesecake filling.
Berry Mix: Combine strawberries with raspberries or blueberries for a mixed berry filling.
Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped almonds or pecans on top for extra crunch.
Cinnamon Sugar Roll: Dust the dough with cinnamon sugar before rolling for a warm spice flavor.

Pro Tip for Customization

If you want a healthier version, you can:

Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour.
Reduce the sugar and use honey as a natural sweetener.
Substitute Greek yogurt for cream cheese for a lighter cheesecake filling.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh ones?

Yes! Thaw them first and drain excess liquid before cooking.

2. How long do Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls stay fresh?

Store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge.

3. Can I freeze Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls?

Yes! Freeze baked rolls without topping for up to 2 months. Reheat and add toppings before serving.

4. Can I use store-bought dough?

Yes, but homemade dough gives the best flavor and texture.

5. How can I make Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free flour blend and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Conclusion

These Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls are a must-try for anyone who loves strawberry recipes. With a creamy cheesecake layer, juicy strawberry filling, and a tender, golden crust, they are perfect for any dessert table. Try them today and enjoy a delightful combination of flavors in every bite!