The Best Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls are a unique and irresistible dessert. They offer a refreshing take on the classic strawberry shortcake by incorporating a creamy cheesecake filling, fresh strawberries, and a buttery crumb layer. The crepes or thin cake layers act as a delicate wrap, and the whole dessert is finished off with a dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant touch. It’s the perfect mix of rich and refreshing flavors, balanced by a light, airy texture. These rolls are not only fun to make but are sure to impress your guests at any gathering!

Ingredients

Filling:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream

Strawberry layer:

• 1 cup fresh strawberries, diced
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar

Crumb layer:

• 1 1/2 cups crushed shortbread cookies or graham crackers
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

Base and garnish:

• 6 large crepes or thin cake layers
• Powdered sugar for dusting

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

Directions

1. Prepare the strawberry layer: In a small bowl, combine the diced fresh strawberries with the 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar. Stir to combine, and let the mixture sit for about 15 minutes, allowing the strawberries to release their juices.
2. Make the filling: In a medium mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together until smooth and creamy. Add the vanilla extract and continue mixing. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until well combined, forming a light, fluffy cheesecake filling.
3. Prepare the crumb layer: In a separate bowl, combine the crushed shortbread cookies or graham crackers with the melted butter. Stir until the mixture is well coated and slightly crumbly.
4. Assemble the rolls: Lay out the crepes or cake layers on a flat surface. Evenly spread a layer of the cheesecake filling over each crepe, leaving a small border around the edges. Then, spoon a few teaspoons of the strawberry mixture over the cheesecake filling. Sprinkle a thin layer of the crumb mixture on top of the strawberries.
5. Roll up the crepes: Carefully roll each crepe up, starting from one edge, until you have a tight roll. Place the rolls seam-side down on a serving platter.
6. Dust with powdered sugar: Once all the rolls are assembled, dust the top with powdered sugar for an elegant finishing touch.
7. Chill and serve: Refrigerate the rolls for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to set. Serve chilled.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8 rolls
• Prep time: 30 minutes
• Chill time: 30 minutes
• Total time: 1 hour

Variations

• Berry mix-up: Add other berries such as raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries to the strawberry mixture for a different twist.
• No crepes? If you don’t have crepes or thin cake layers, you can use store-bought puff pastry or sponge cake layers for a similar effect.
• Vegan option: Use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative and coconut cream to make this dessert vegan-friendly.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: These rolls are best served chilled, but if you prefer them at room temperature, let them sit for 10-15 minutes before serving.

FAQs

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the rolls up to 1 day in advance. Just store them in the refrigerator, and dust with powdered sugar right before serving.

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Fresh strawberries are ideal for this recipe, but if you use frozen strawberries, be sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly to avoid excess moisture in the filling.

What can I use if I don’t have crepes?

If you don’t have crepes, you can use thin cake layers, tortillas, or even large pancakes as an alternative.

How can I make the filling less sweet?

If you prefer a less sweet filling, reduce the amount of granulated sugar in the cheesecake filling and adjust the sweetness to your taste.

Can I make these without the crumb layer?

Yes, the crumb layer is optional. If you prefer a smoother texture, feel free to skip it.

How do I know when the rolls are ready to serve?

Once the rolls are chilled and the flavors have set, they are ready to serve. The filling should be firm but creamy, and the rolls will hold their shape.

Can I freeze these rolls?

Yes, you can freeze the rolls. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container. Let them thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving.

Can I use a different type of cookie for the crumb layer?

Yes, you can use any type of cookie you like for the crumb layer, such as digestive biscuits or vanilla wafer cookies.

Is there an alternative to whipped cream for the filling?

If you don’t want to use whipped cream, you can use mascarpone cheese or Greek yogurt to add creaminess to the filling.

Can I add a drizzle of chocolate or caramel?

A drizzle of melted chocolate or caramel would be a fantastic addition to these rolls for extra sweetness and flavor!

Conclusion

These Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls are the perfect dessert for any occasion. With their creamy, fluffy filling, fresh strawberries, and buttery crumb layer, they are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Easy to make yet elegant in presentation, this recipe is a fun and delicious twist on a classic dessert that everyone will love!

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