Homemade Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Roll Recipe

If you’ve ever dreamed of combining two of your most beloved desserts into one delightfully show-stopping treat, the Homemade Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Roll is about to become your new obsession. Imagine fluffy vanilla sponge cake, silky cheesecake filling, juicy strawberries, and that irresistible strawberry shortcake crumble all rolled into a stunning swirl. This recipe transforms classic flavors into a centerpiece-worthy dessert that’s homemade, impressive, and surprisingly doable!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every incredible bite of this Homemade Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Roll comes down to its thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a role in the luscious flavors, pillowy textures, and signature colors that make this dessert impossible to resist.

• Eggs: Give the sponge cake structure, lift, and a lovely golden color.
• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the sponge cake and helps create that soft, tender crumb.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds a cozy aroma and rounds out the flavors in both the cake and filling.
• All-Purpose Flour: The foundation for a light and airy cake roll, not too dense.
• Baking Powder: Ensures the cake rises just enough to be soft yet rollable.
• Salt: Enhances sweetness and keeps flavors balanced.
• Whole Milk: Lends richness to the cake for a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Chopped Strawberries: Fresh fruit bursts in the sponge for natural sweetness and color.
• Cream Cheese: The star of the cheesecake filling, giving a luscious tang.
• Powdered Sugar: Smoothly sweetens the cheesecake without any grittiness.
• Heavy Whipping Cream: Whipped for a dreamy, light filling texture.
• Golden Oreos: Crushed for that classic shortcake crumble crunch.
• Strawberry Gelatin Powder: Amps up the strawberry flavor and gorgeous pink color in the crumble.
• Melted Butter: Makes the crumble stick together perfectly, so every slice is coated.
• Fresh Strawberries: The ultimate topping and an ode to strawberry shortcake tradition.
• Whipped Cream: For cloud-like decadence on every slice.
• Strawberry Sauce: A finishing drizzle for showstopping presentation and juicy flavor.

How to Make Homemade Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Roll

Step 1: Prepare the Sponge Cake

Let’s start with the base. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking sheet with parchment paper. Beat the eggs and sugar together until the mixture is fluffy and pale, bringing airiness to your cake roll. Mix in the vanilla for that fragrant, sweet aroma we all love. Next, gently fold in the sifted flour, baking powder, and salt, being careful not to deflate all the air. Add the milk, incorporating it until smooth, and then lovingly fold in the chopped strawberries. Spread the batter evenly in your pan and bake for 10 to 12 minutes until just set and lightly golden.

Step 2: Roll and Cool the Cake

As soon as the cake comes out of the oven, while it’s still warm and pliable, roll it up gently—parchment paper and all—into a log. This step creates that signature Homemade Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Roll swirl and prevents cracks. Let the rolled cake cool completely; patience is key here for a smooth, “wow” worthy finished product.

Step 3: Whip Up the Cheesecake Filling

While the cake cools, it’s time for the creamy heart of this treat. Beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until silky smooth. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream to stiff peaks—this is what gives your filling its pillowy lightness. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture, and you’ll have an irresistible cheesecake fluff ready to go.

Step 4: Fill and Re-Roll

Once the cake is completely cool, carefully unroll it. Spread an even, generous layer of your cheesecake filling over the entire surface, spreading all the way to the edges. Now, gently roll the cake back up (minus the parchment paper this time), making sure the seam is underneath. Wrap the roll in plastic and chill for at least two hours so the flavors meld and the roll sets up beautifully.

Step 5: Make the Strawberry Shortcake Crumble

While your roll is chilling, crush the golden Oreos and combine them in a bowl with the strawberry gelatin powder and the melted butter. Toss until everything is evenly coated and crumbly with a glorious pink hue. This coating is what brings the homemade strawberry shortcake cheesecake roll over the top!

Step 6: Assemble and Decorate

Take the chilled roll, and spread a thin extra layer of cheesecake filling over the outside. Sprinkle the strawberry shortcake crumble generously all over, pressing gently so it sticks. Finish with beautiful sliced strawberries, a swirl of whipped cream, and a drizzled of luscious strawberry sauce. Slice into pinwheels and prepare for huge smiles all around!

How to Serve Homemade Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Roll

Garnishes

The joy of serving Homemade Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Roll comes from those over-the-top, fresh finishes. Think heaping clouds of whipped cream, extra sliced strawberries fanned along each serving, and a glistening trickle of strawberry sauce for that final flourish. Don’t be shy—the more playful and colorful, the better!

Side Dishes

While this dessert is spectacular on its own, it pairs beautifully with simple accompaniments. A scoop of vanilla bean ice cream brings extra creaminess, while a cup of hot coffee or a glass of sparkling rosé makes the whole experience feel celebratory. Keep sides light so the roll remains the star of your table.

Creative Ways to Present

Homemade Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Roll shines when you slice it to reveal that pinwheel—arrange slices in a fan on a pretty platter for a show-stopping centerpiece. For parties, you can serve individual slices in cupcake liners, topped with a piped dollop of whipped cream and a single berry. Feeling fancy? Garnish with edible flowers or a berry coulis swirl for a special brunch or shower.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, wrap the roll or individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator. The cheesecake filling keeps everything moist, but you’ll want to enjoy within three days for maximum freshness and fluffiness.

Freezing

The Homemade Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Roll can be frozen for longer storage. Wrap the assembled and chilled roll (without garnishes) first in plastic wrap, then in foil. Label and freeze for up to two months. When ready to serve, thaw overnight in the fridge before adding toppings and slice as usual.

Reheating

This dessert is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, so no reheating is needed! If it’s been in the fridge, just let your slice rest at room temperature for ten minutes to take the chill off and let the flavors bloom.

FAQs

Can I make the Homemade Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Roll ahead of time?

Absolutely! This roll actually benefits from chilling time, so you can make it a day in advance and let all the beautiful flavors come together. Just wait to add the toppings until right before serving.

What if my cake cracks when I roll it?

Don’t worry! A few small cracks are common, especially the first time making a cake roll, and the cheesecake filling plus the crumble coating will hide most imperfections. Rolling while the cake is still warm and moist helps minimize cracks.

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Yes, if fresh strawberries aren’t in season, thawed and well-drained frozen strawberries can work in the cake batter and as a topping. Be sure to pat them dry so they don’t make your cake soggy.

Is there a gluten-free option?

You can substitute a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the cake and use gluten-free cookies in the crumble to make the entire recipe gluten-free. The results are just as delicious and impressive!

How do I keep the roll from sticking to the parchment?

Spraying or lightly greasing the parchment before pouring in the batter helps ensure a clean release. Rolling the cake up with the parchment and letting it cool that way also prevents sticking and helps keep things tidy.

Final Thoughts

Bringing together the nostalgia of strawberry shortcake and the richness of cheesecake in a beautiful rolled cake is pure kitchen magic. I hope you have as much fun making and sharing this Homemade Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Roll as I always do. Trust me—once you slice into that swirl, it’s smiles all around! Don’t wait for a special occasion to treat yourself and loved ones to this unforgettable dessert adventure.

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