Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls are a heavenly fusion of two beloved desserts—strawberry shortcake and cheesecake. The creamy cheesecake filling is paired with fresh, juicy strawberries and encased in soft cake rolls. With the added crunch of buttery shortbread crumbs, each bite is a perfect balance of smooth, sweet, and slightly tangy flavors. The best part? No baking required! This no-bake dessert is perfect for busy days, summer gatherings, or whenever you want a decadent treat without the hassle of turning on the oven.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 8 oz full-fat cream cheese (softened)
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup heavy cream (cold)
• 1 cup graham cracker crumbs (or shortbread crumbs for extra flavor)
• 1 tablespoon melted butter
• 1 pint fresh strawberries (sliced)
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (for macerating the strawberries)

Directions

1. Prepare the strawberries: In a small bowl, combine the sliced strawberries with the granulated sugar. Stir gently and let them sit for about 10 minutes to draw out their juices. This will create a natural syrup for your filling.
2. Make the cheesecake filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until well combined, being careful not to deflate the whipped cream.
3. Prepare the shortcake crumb base: In a separate small bowl, mix the graham cracker or shortbread crumbs with the melted butter until the crumbs are evenly coated.
4. Assemble the rolls: Lay out a piece of parchment paper or plastic wrap on a flat surface. Spread the cheesecake mixture evenly over the crumbs. Place the macerated strawberries on top of the cheesecake layer. Carefully roll the mixture into a log, using the parchment paper to help you.
5. Chill: Once the rolls are assembled, refrigerate them for at least 2 hours (or overnight) to allow the cheesecake to set and the flavors to meld together.
6. Serve: Once chilled, slice the rolls into 1-inch pieces. Serve immediately or keep refrigerated until ready to serve. You can garnish with extra strawberries or a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8 rolls
• Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus chilling time)
• Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes

Variations

• Berry Medley: Swap out strawberries for other berries such as blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries for a mixed-berry version.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate or a chocolate ganache over the rolls for a rich, indulgent touch.
• Lemon Zest: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the cheesecake filling for a refreshing citrus twist.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free graham crackers or a gluten-free cookie base to make these rolls gluten-free.
• Nutty Version: Add crushed nuts, such as almonds or pecans, to the crumbs for an extra crunch.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the rolls for up to 2 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving.
• Reheating: Since these rolls are served cold, there’s no need to reheat them. Just chill and serve straight from the fridge!

FAQs

Can I use store-bought shortbread cookies for the crumb base?

Yes, store-bought shortbread cookies work perfectly for the crumb base! Just crush them into fine crumbs before mixing them with the melted butter.

How can I make these rolls more decadent?

For a richer flavor, you can add a bit of melted white chocolate or dark chocolate to the cheesecake filling before mixing in the whipped cream.

Can I use frozen strawberries?

You can use frozen strawberries, but fresh berries will give the best texture and flavor. If using frozen, be sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly before adding to the rolls.

Do I have to use heavy cream in the filling?

Heavy cream is essential to creating the light and fluffy texture of the cheesecake filling. You can substitute it with whipped topping, but the flavor and texture will differ.

How long should I chill the rolls?

Chill the rolls for at least 2 hours to ensure they firm up and the flavors have time to develop. For best results, overnight chilling is recommended.

Can I make these rolls in advance?

Yes, these rolls are perfect for making ahead. In fact, letting them chill overnight helps the flavors meld together, making them even better.

Can I make these rolls without graham cracker crumbs?

Yes, you can use other cookie crumbs, like crushed digestive biscuits, shortbread, or even pretzels for a salty twist.

Can I add a topping to the rolls?

Absolutely! You can top them with whipped cream, extra strawberries, or a dusting of powdered sugar right before serving.

What if I can’t find shortbread cookies?

If you can’t find shortbread cookies, graham crackers are a great alternative. Alternatively, any sweet cookie will work, such as vanilla wafers or biscotti.

How can I make the cheesecake filling more flavorful?

For more flavor, you can add extracts like almond or coconut, or even a bit of citrus juice or zest to enhance the taste.

Conclusion

Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls are a delightful no-bake dessert that combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the freshness of strawberries and the crunch of shortcake crumbs. They’re easy to make, fun to eat, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them at a summer gathering, a holiday dinner, or just as a sweet treat for yourself, these rolls are sure to be a hit. Simple yet indulgent, they’re the perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth!

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