If you’re craving a dreamy dessert that’s the ultimate mash-up of creamy, fruity, and utterly irresistible, Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls are about to become your new obsession. Imagine silky whipped cheesecake filling, sweet and juicy strawberries, and buttery cookie crunch—all wrapped up sushi-style in a delicate crepe, then chilled to perfection. Elegant enough for a special occasion but easy enough for a weeknight treat, these rolls are summer sunshine in every bite.

Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

It’s amazing how a handful of simple, classic ingredients can mingle to produce a showstopping treat. Every component in Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls pulls its weight—contributing lush creaminess, bursts of berry flavor, or satisfying crunchy contrast to each bite.

Cream cheese: The star of the cheesecake filling, it brings luscious, tangy richness. Make sure it’s softened for easy blending.
Granulated sugar: Adds the perfect amount of sweetness to both the filling and the strawberries without overpowering the natural flavors.
Vanilla extract: Just a splash deepens the dessert’s flavor, giving it that classic bakery aroma.
Heavy whipping cream: Gently whipped to airy peaks, it lightens the filling, making it fluffy and mousse-like.
Fresh strawberries: Diced finely, these sweeten up and become juicy when macerated—no artificial flavor here!
Crushed shortbread cookies or graham crackers: These crumbs add authentic shortcake flavor and delightful buttery texture.
Unsalted butter: Mixed with the crumbs, it binds them together and adds richness and flavor.
Crepes or thin cake layers: Soft and flexible, these act as the perfect wrapper for all that filling—store-bought works beautifully if you’re in a hurry.
Powdered sugar: A finishing dusting looks gorgeous and adds a delicate sweetness.

How to Make Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls

Step 1: Make the Cheesecake Filling

Start by beating softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract together until ultra-smooth and creamy. This is the backbone of your filling, so don’t rush this step—scrape the bowl as needed to get every bit blended.

Step 2: Whip and Fold in Cream

In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream into stiff peaks—this creates the cloudlike texture that makes Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls almost melt on your tongue. Gently fold the whipped cream into your cream cheese mixture to keep it light and airy.

Step 3: Macerate the Strawberries

Mix your diced strawberries with a couple tablespoons of sugar and let them sit for about 10 minutes. This draws out their juices, making every bite extra juicy and flavorful.

Step 4: Prepare the Shortcake Crumb

Stir together crushed shortbread cookies (or graham crackers) and melted butter in a bowl until the mixture looks like wet sand. This layer brings that classic shortcake taste and a satisfying crunch to your rolls.

Step 5: Assemble the Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls

Lay a crepe (or cake layer) flat on your work surface. Spread a generous layer of the cheesecake filling, sprinkle over some shortcake crumbs, and spoon on a line of those juicy strawberries. Roll it up tightly, sushi-style, keeping all the delicious layers neatly packed inside.

Step 6: Chill the Rolls

Wrap each roll snugly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least an hour. This helps the rolls firm up, which makes them easier to slice and enhances the mingling of all those lovely flavors.

Step 7: Slice and Serve

Remove the chilled Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls from the fridge, unwrap, and slice them into beautiful 1-inch pieces. A final dusting of powdered sugar is not just pretty—it adds one more whisper of sweetness.

How to Serve Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls

Garnishes

Take presentation to the next level by topping your slices with extra fresh strawberry slices, a few mint leaves, or even a dollop of freshly whipped cream. The finishing touches add both beauty and extra bursts of flavor.

Side Dishes

These rolls pair well with herbal teas, iced coffee, or a sparkling rosé for a truly celebratory feel. If you want to create a dessert platter, try adding white chocolate-dipped berries or lemon bars to echo the rolls’ sweet-tart notes.

Creative Ways to Present

For a playful twist, arrange your Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls sushi-style on a platter with a drizzle of strawberry sauce alongside for dipping. Or, stand them upright in cupcake liners for a pretty, portable treat at parties.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any extra Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The texture stays dreamy, and the flavors get even better as they mingle.

Freezing

If you want to plan ahead, these rolls freeze surprisingly well! Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, and store in the freezer for up to one month. Thaw them in the fridge overnight before serving.

Reheating

These treats are best served cold or at cool room temperature, so there’s actually no need to reheat. Just slice, dust with powdered sugar, and enjoy straight from the fridge or after a brief rest on the counter.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries—just thaw, drain, and dice them before macerating with sugar. Fresh strawberries, however, give the best appearance and texture in Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls.

What if I don’t have crepes—can I use something else?

Absolutely! Thin cake layers like sponge cake or even flour tortillas can work in a pinch. The flavor and texture will change slightly, but the result is still delicious and worthy of serving to guests.

How far in advance can I make Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls?

You can assemble and chill these rolls up to 24 hours ahead of time. They actually get easier to slice after chilling overnight, making them perfect for planning ahead for parties or gatherings.

Is there a gluten-free option?

Sure! Simply swap in gluten-free graham crackers or shortbread for the crumb layer, and use gluten-free crepes. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so everyone can enjoy.

Can I add other fruit to the filling?

Of course! While strawberries are classic for Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls, diced blueberries, raspberries, or peaches make delicious additions or swaps. Just be sure to macerate any fruit you add for the best texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts

There’s something magical about the way flavors and textures come together in these Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls—they’re nostalgic, yet totally new and fun to make and share. Give them a whirl next time you want to wow your friends or treat yourself; this recipe guarantees happy smiles and empty plates!