Light, airy, and bursting with fresh strawberry flavor, Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls are the ultimate dessert for any occasion. These delicate sponge cake rolls are infused with a sweet strawberry essence, swirled with a rich and creamy cheesecake filling, and topped with a luscious strawberry glaze. To add a delightful crunch, a buttery crumble is sprinkled on top, along with fresh strawberries for the perfect finishing touch. Every bite offers a beautiful balance of sweetness, tartness, and velvety smoothness, making this treat irresistible.

Whether you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert for a gathering or just want to treat yourself to something special, these rolls are sure to impress. Their eye-catching pink hues and soft, fluffy texture make them as gorgeous as they are delicious. Serve them chilled for a refreshing summer dessert or enjoy them with a warm cup of tea during cooler months. No matter the season, Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls are bound to become a new favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls

A Perfect Blend of Flavors – The combination of fresh strawberries, creamy cheesecake filling, and sweet sponge cake makes for an unforgettable treat.
Soft and Fluffy Texture – The light sponge cake melts in your mouth, perfectly complementing the smooth, rich filling.
Visually Stunning – With its vibrant pink color, swirled design, and crunchy crumble topping, this dessert looks as good as it tastes.
Great for Any Occasion – Whether it’s a birthday, holiday, or just a casual dessert, these rolls are always a hit.
Easy to Customize – Switch up the flavors by adding different fruits, extracts, or even a drizzle of chocolate for a unique twist.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into making these delightful Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls, gathering the right tools and equipment is essential for a smooth baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment:

Mixing Bowls – You’ll need multiple bowls for mixing the cake batter, filling, and crumble topping.
Electric Mixer or Stand Mixer – A hand mixer or stand mixer helps achieve a fluffy sponge cake and smooth cheesecake filling.
Baking Sheet (Jelly Roll Pan) – A 10×15-inch pan is ideal for baking a thin sponge cake that’s easy to roll.
Parchment Paper – Prevents the cake from sticking and makes rolling much easier.
Spatula – Useful for spreading the batter evenly and handling delicate cake layers.
Kitchen Towel – Helps roll the cake while it’s warm to prevent cracking.
Cooling Rack – Ensures even cooling to maintain the cake’s structure.
Knife or Cake Cutter – For cutting the rolls into even portions.
Sieve (Optional) – To dust powdered sugar for extra decoration.

Importance of Each Tool:

Using the right pan size ensures the sponge cake bakes evenly and is easy to roll. A hand or stand mixer is essential for aerating the batter properly, giving you a light, fluffy texture. Parchment paper helps in easy removal, while the towel technique prevents cracks when rolling. Cooling racks help maintain the cake’s softness, and a sharp knife ensures clean, smooth slices.

Preparation Tips

Follow these tips to ensure the perfect Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls every time:

Room Temperature Ingredients – Ensure eggs, butter, and cream cheese are at room temperature for smooth mixing and a fluffy cake texture.
Preheat the Oven Properly – A properly preheated oven ensures even baking, preventing overbaking or dryness.
Don’t Overmix the Batter – Mix until just combined to maintain a light and airy sponge texture.
Roll the Cake While Warm – Rolling the cake in a towel immediately after baking helps it hold shape without cracking.
Chill the Filling Before Spreading – A slightly chilled cheesecake filling will spread more evenly and prevent the cake from becoming soggy.
Use Fresh Strawberries – Fresh berries enhance the flavor and texture, giving a more natural sweetness to the dessert.
Chill Before Slicing – Refrigerating the rolls for at least 30 minutes before cutting ensures clean slices and perfect presentation.

Ingredients for Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls

To make these delightful Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Sponge Cake:

4 large eggs (room temperature)
¾ cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon salt
¾ cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
2 tablespoons milk
½ teaspoon strawberry extract (optional for enhanced flavor)
Pink food coloring (optional)

For the Cheesecake Filling:

8 oz cream cheese (softened)
½ cup powdered sugar
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
½ cup heavy whipping cream

For the Strawberry Glaze:

1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons milk
½ teaspoon strawberry extract
Pink food coloring (optional)

For the Crumble Topping:

½ cup all-purpose flour
¼ cup granulated sugar
¼ cup unsalted butter (melted)
¼ cup crushed shortbread cookies (optional for extra crunch)

For Garnishing:

Fresh strawberries (sliced)
Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions for Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls

Step 1: Prepare the Sponge Cake Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it.
In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs, sugar, and vanilla extract on high speed for about 3-4 minutes until pale and fluffy.
Sift in the flour, baking powder, and salt, then gently fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture.
Add the milk, vegetable oil, and strawberry extract (if using), folding carefully to maintain the airy texture.
If desired, mix in a few drops of pink food coloring for a vibrant strawberry hue.

Step 2: Bake the Sponge Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly using a spatula.
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cake is set and springs back when lightly touched.
While the cake bakes, lay out a clean kitchen towel and dust it with powdered sugar.

Step 3: Roll the Cake

Once baked, carefully invert the cake onto the prepared towel and peel off the parchment paper.
While still warm, gently roll the cake (with the towel) from the shorter end into a log shape.
Let it cool completely for about 30-40 minutes at room temperature.

Step 4: Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a bowl, beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form, then fold it into the cream cheese mixture.
Chill the filling for 15 minutes before using.

Step 5: Fill and Roll the Cake

Carefully unroll the cooled sponge cake and spread an even layer of cheesecake filling over the surface.
Roll it back up tightly (without the towel) and wrap it in plastic wrap.
Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.

Step 6: Prepare the Crumble Topping

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) again.
In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, and melted butter until it forms crumbs.
Spread the mixture on a baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes, stirring halfway. Let it cool.

Step 7: Make the Strawberry Glaze

Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and strawberry extract until smooth.
If needed, add more milk for a thinner glaze or more sugar for a thicker consistency.
Add a few drops of pink food coloring if desired.

Step 8: Assemble and Garnish

Remove the cake roll from the fridge and drizzle with the strawberry glaze.
Sprinkle the crumb topping generously over the top.
Garnish with fresh strawberry slices and an optional dusting of powdered sugar.
Slice and serve chilled for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

Use Fresh Strawberries – Fresh, ripe strawberries give the best flavor, but you can also use freeze-dried strawberries crushed into a powder for extra strawberry essence.
Chill Before Slicing – Refrigerating the cake roll before cutting helps it hold its shape and prevents the filling from oozing out.
Adjust the Sweetness – If you prefer a less sweet dessert, reduce the powdered sugar in the cheesecake filling slightly.
Crumble Topping Variations – You can swap shortbread cookies for graham crackers or vanilla wafers to change up the texture and taste.
Double the Filling for Extra Creaminess – If you love a richer, thicker cheesecake layer, consider increasing the filling ingredients by 50%.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

1. Overbaking the Sponge Cake

A dry cake will crack when rolled, making it difficult to shape. Keep an eye on the oven and remove the cake as soon as it springs back when touched.

2. Not Rolling the Cake While Warm

If you wait too long to roll the cake, it may crack. Roll it immediately after baking using a clean towel to maintain flexibility.

3. Overmixing the Batter

Overmixing causes the sponge cake to become dense rather than light and airy. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.

4. Using Cold Cream Cheese

Cold cream cheese won’t blend smoothly into the filling. Let it soften at room temperature for a creamy, lump-free texture.

5. Skipping the Chilling Step

The cake needs time in the fridge to set properly. Cutting it too soon will result in messy slices and an unstable roll.

6. Making the Glaze Too Thin

If the strawberry glaze is too runny, it will slide off the cake instead of coating it. Adjust by adding more powdered sugar to thicken it.

7. Cutting with a Dull Knife

A dull knife can squish the roll instead of slicing it cleanly. Use a sharp, serrated knife and wipe it clean between cuts for neat slices.

8. Overfilling the Cake Roll

Adding too much cheesecake filling can make rolling difficult and cause it to spill out. Spread an even, moderate layer to keep everything intact.

What to Serve With Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls?

These Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls are already a delightful treat, but pairing them with the right accompaniments can make them even more enjoyable. Whether you want to enhance the flavors, add contrast, or create a complete dessert experience, here are some delicious serving suggestions.

8 Perfect Pairings

1. Whipped Cream

A light and airy dollop of homemade whipped cream adds extra creaminess and balances the sweetness of the rolls.

2. Fresh Berries

Serve with a mix of strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries for a refreshing contrast to the creamy filling.

3. Vanilla Ice Cream

The cold, smooth texture of vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully with the soft and creamy strawberry cheesecake roll.

4. Chocolate Drizzle

A drizzle of melted dark or white chocolate over the slices adds a rich, indulgent touch.

5. Lemon Curd

The bright, citrusy tang of lemon curd brings a refreshing contrast to the sweet strawberry flavors.

6. Espresso or Coffee

A strong espresso, cappuccino, or iced coffee balances the sweetness and enhances the dessert experience.

7. Almond or Coconut Shavings

Sprinkling some toasted almond slices or coconut flakes on top adds a lovely crunch and nutty flavor.

8. Glass of Sparkling Rosé or Champagne

If serving for a special occasion, a light, fruity sparkling rosé or champagne pairs beautifully with the strawberry notes.

Storage Instructions

To keep your Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls fresh and delicious, follow these storage tips:

Refrigeration:

Store the rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
If the rolls are pre-sliced, separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Always keep them chilled to maintain the creamy cheesecake filling.

Freezing:

Wrap the unglazed cake roll tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
Store in the freezer for up to 2 months.
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before glazing and serving.

Reheating (if needed):

These rolls are best served chilled, but if you prefer them slightly warm, microwave a slice for 5-10 seconds for a softer texture.

Estimated Nutrition (Per Slice)

Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown for each serving (assuming 10 slices per roll):

Calories: 280-320 kcal
Carbohydrates: 38g
Sugar: 26g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Fiber: 1g
Sodium: 120mg

Nutritional values may vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make these rolls ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the cake roll a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just wait to add the glaze and toppings until right before serving for the freshest taste.

2. Why did my cake crack when rolling?

Cracking happens when the cake cools too much before rolling. Be sure to roll it while it’s still warm, using a clean towel to help maintain its shape.

3. Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid adding excess moisture that could make the cake soggy.

4. How do I get an even swirl in my roll?

Spread the cheesecake filling evenly, leaving a small border around the edges. Roll gently but firmly to maintain the swirl without squeezing out the filling.

5. Can I use a different filling?

Absolutely! Try using chocolate ganache, lemon curd, or a raspberry cream cheese filling for a different flavor twist.

6. How do I keep my cake roll from becoming too soft or mushy?

Make sure the sponge cake is completely cooled before adding the filling. Also, avoid overfilling, as too much moisture can cause the roll to lose structure.

7. Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free 1:1 baking flour to make it gluten-free without changing the texture too much.

8. What can I do if my glaze is too thin?

Add more powdered sugar, one tablespoon at a time, until the glaze thickens to your desired consistency. If it’s too thick, add a teaspoon of milk to loosen it up.

Conclusion

Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls are a dreamy, delicious dessert perfect for any occasion. With a soft, fluffy sponge cake, a rich cheesecake filling, and a sweet strawberry glaze topped with buttery crumble, this treat is both visually stunning and irresistibly tasty. Whether served at a gathering or enjoyed as a personal indulgence, this recipe is sure to impress. Follow the tips and tricks above for the perfect cake roll every time, and don’t be afraid to get creative with flavors and toppings. Enjoy!