Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls Recipe

If you have a soft spot for both cheesecake and strawberry shortcake, then you are in for a real treat with this Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls Recipe. Imagine a tender, buttery shortcake dough rolled up with a luscious, creamy cheesecake filling, baked to golden perfection, and topped with bright, juicy strawberries that burst with sweetness. Every bite is a delightful mix of textures and flavors that will have you coming back for more. This recipe is not only a crowd-pleaser but also a charming way to enjoy your favorite classic flavors with a fresh twist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this dessert truly shine. Each one has been chosen for its role in creating the perfect balance of soft, creamy, and fruity delight that defines this Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls Recipe.

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour: The foundation for a tender shortcake that holds the filling perfectly.
• 2 teaspoons baking powder: Helps the dough rise just enough to get a light texture.
• ¼ teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavor depth.
• 3 tablespoons sugar: Adds a subtle sweetness to the dough.
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened: Creates a rich, flaky texture in the shortcake.
• ½ cup heavy cream: Keeps the dough moist and tender.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds fragrant warmth to the dough.
• 1 large egg (for egg wash): Gives the rolls a beautiful golden finish when baked.
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened: The creamy heart of the cheesecake filling.
• ½ cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake filling to perfection.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the richness of the cheesecake filling.
• ½ cup heavy cream: Whipped to add lightness and fluffiness to the filling.
• 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced: The juicy, vibrant fruit that tops each roll.
• 2 tablespoons sugar (optional, for macerating strawberries): Draws out natural juices for a luscious topping.

How to Make Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

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

Step 2: Make the Shortcake Dough

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar to create a uniform base. Then add the softened butter, using a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until the texture resembles coarse crumbs. This step is where your dough starts developing its tender flakiness.

Step 3: Add Cream and Vanilla

Stir in the heavy cream and vanilla extract just until combined. It’s important not to overmix here to keep that light texture we’re aiming for. The cream adds richness while vanilla brings a hint of warmth to the dough.

Step 4: Roll Out the Dough

On a lightly floured surface, gently roll the dough into a 1/4-inch thick rectangle. This even thickness helps the rolls bake perfectly and hold the filling nicely as you roll them up.

Step 5: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

Beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together until smooth and creamy. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream to stiff peaks, then fold it gently into the cream cheese mixture. This step lightens the filling, making it beautifully fluffy yet rich.

Step 6: Assemble the Rolls

Spread the cheesecake filling evenly over the dough rectangle, leaving a small border around the edges. Then carefully roll the dough tightly from one long side to the other, forming a log. Slice into 8 to 10 pieces and place them spaced apart in a greased or lined baking dish.

Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection

Brush the tops of the rolls with beaten egg to achieve a golden-brown finish. Bake for 15 to 18 minutes, until the rolls turn beautifully golden and cooked through. The aroma at this stage is simply irresistible!

Step 8: Prepare the Strawberry Topping

While the rolls bake, toss your sliced strawberries with optional sugar to macerate them. Let them sit for 10 to 15 minutes to release their juices and amplify their natural sweetness—a perfect fresh topping for these rolls.

Step 9: Serve

Once the rolls have cooled slightly, spoon the macerated strawberries generously on top. Serve immediately to enjoy that delightful mix of warm shortcake and cool, creamy cheesecake filling with fresh strawberry sweetness.

How to Serve Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh mint leaves instantly brighten up the presentation while adding a refreshing counterpoint to the rich filling. A light dusting of powdered sugar over the top provides a delicate sweetness and charming look. You can even drizzle some melted white chocolate for an extra-special touch.

Side Dishes

Pair these rolls with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent touch. A cup of freshly brewed coffee or a glass of sparkling rosé also complements the sweetness beautifully, making this dessert perfect for brunch or afternoon gatherings.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the rolls on a rustic wooden board alongside a bowl of extra macerated strawberries for guests to help themselves. For a whimsical twist, set each roll on a pretty dessert plate topped with edible flowers to impress at your next party or special occasion.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled completely, store leftover rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days, making it easy to enjoy this dessert a little at a time without losing any flavor or texture.

Freezing

You can freeze unbaked rolls by placing them on a baking sheet and popping them in the freezer until firm. Then transfer to a freezer-safe container. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and proceed with baking for a freshly baked treat anytime.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the rolls in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for about 10 minutes until heated through. Avoid microwaving as it can make the shortcake soggy. For a quick fix, a warm oven restores that just-baked texture and melts the cheesecake filling beautifully.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Fresh strawberries are best for this recipe because they hold their texture and brightness after macerating. Frozen strawberries tend to be watery when thawed, which can make the rolls soggy, but if that’s what you have, draining excess liquid before serving helps.

Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with an equal amount of a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Just be sure it contains xanthan gum or a similar binder to keep the dough’s structure intact for rolling and baking.

Can I prepare the rolls dairy-free?

To make this dessert dairy-free, replace butter with a non-dairy margarine, cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative, and use coconut cream whipped to stiff peaks. The result will be slightly different in texture but still wonderfully tasty.

How long do the Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls last once baked?

Stored well in the refrigerator, these rolls keep their best quality for up to 3 days. After that, the shortcake may lose some of its tender flakiness, and the strawberries might become watery, so it’s best to enjoy them fresh or within that timeframe.

Can I make the filling ahead of time?

Absolutely! The cheesecake filling can be made a day ahead and kept tightly covered in the refrigerator. Just bring it to room temperature and give it a quick stir before spreading it over the dough to ensure it spreads smoothly.

Final Thoughts

You really can’t go wrong with this Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls Recipe. It’s a beautiful blend of comforting classic flavors with an elegant twist, perfect for sharing with family, friends, or simply treating yourself. Give it a try, and I promise these rolls will become a delightful staple in your dessert rotation!

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