Looking for a dessert that tastes like sunshine and strawberry fields, but with the creaminess of your favorite cheesecake? You’re about to fall in love with Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls. Imagine ultra-soft crepes filled with luscious cheesecake cream, studded with sweet, juicy strawberries, and finished with a buttery cookie crumb. It’s a fresh twist on a classic that brings together everything you love about strawberry shortcake and cheesecake, all rolled up into a fun, hand-held treat that’s as delightful to make as it is to eat!

Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of these Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls lies in their simple ingredients. Every component, from plump strawberries to rich cream cheese, plays a delicious role in the finished dessert. Let’s break it down so you know exactly why you need each one!

Cream cheese: Provides the classic, tangy cheesecake flavor and a wonderfully creamy texture for the filling.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens both the filling and the macerated strawberry layer for perfect balance.
Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and aromatic depth to the cheesecake cream.
Heavy whipping cream: Gives the filling its signature light, airy finish and helps everything fold together smoothly.
Fresh strawberries: The star of the show, these juicy berries deliver gorgeous color and pop with every bite.
Shortbread cookies or graham crackers: Crushed into tidy crumbs for that satisfyingly sweet crunch layer.
Unsalted butter: Binds the crumbs together and adds a hint of richness to the base.
Crepes or thin cake layers: Flexible bases that hold all the layers, keeping every bite together and oh-so-delicate.
Powdered sugar: A snowy dusting to finish, adding sweetness and a touch of elegance.

How to Make Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls

Step 1: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

Begin by beating the softened cream cheese with granulated sugar and vanilla extract in a mixing bowl. Mix until it’s silky-smooth and completely free of lumps. This step is what gives your Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls that irresistible cheesecake essence right from the start.

Step 2: Whip and Fold in the Cream

Whip your cold heavy cream until stiff peaks appear—you’re looking for a thick, billowy texture. Gently fold this into your cream cheese base. The cream lightens everything up and makes the filling luxuriously fluffy, important for that melt-in-your-mouth effect.

Step 3: Macerate the Strawberries

Toss the diced fresh strawberries with sugar in a small bowl. Let them sit for at least 10 minutes until they become syrupy and glossy. This process draws out their natural juices, turning simple berries into a luscious layer in your Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls.

Step 4: Make the Crunchy Crumb Layer

Combine your crushed cookies or graham crackers with melted butter. Stir until they look like wet sand—a texture that means they’ll stick nicely together and add that classic “shortcake” element inside the rolls.

Step 5: Assemble and Roll

Lay a crepe or cake layer flat. Spread a generous amount of the cheesecake filling, sprinkle over a layer of buttery crumbs, then spoon the macerated strawberries on top. Roll everything up tightly, sushi-style, to create that gorgeous swirl when sliced. This is where your Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls truly take shape!

Step 6: Chill for the Perfect Texture

Wrap each roll in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour. This cooling time helps everything set, ensuring your rolls slice cleanly and keep their beautiful spiral.

Step 7: Slice and Serve

Once chilled, unwrap and slice each roll into one-inch pieces. Dust everything with powdered sugar, and get ready for oohs and aahs—your Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls are stunning and ready to eat!

How to Serve Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls

Garnishes

For that “wow” factor, dust your rolls generously with powdered sugar and add a few extra strawberry slices or a sprig of mint on top. These little touches make your Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls just as pretty as they are tasty!

Side Dishes

While fabulous on their own, these rolls pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream, or a dollop of whipped cream. For a brunch spread, serve alongside fresh berries or a glass of sparkling lemonade.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn these into party-perfect finger food by arranging sliced rolls on a chic platter with toothpicks, or layer slices in parfait cups with extra berries and crumbs for an ultra-fun Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls trifle. Kids especially love them rolled up taco-style for a sweet treat on the go!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Their flavors mingle and intensify as they sit, making that next bite even more delightful.

Freezing

For longer storage, wrap individual rolls tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. They’ll freeze well for up to one month—just know that extreme cold may soften the strawberries a bit upon thawing.

Reheating

These are meant to be enjoyed chilled or at cool room temperature, so there’s no need to reheat. If frozen, simply let the rolls thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving for the best texture and flavor.

FAQs

Can I make Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the rolls a day in advance and keep them refrigerated, making them perfect for parties or gatherings. In fact, a little extra time in the fridge intensifies their flavors.

Do I have to use crepes, or can I substitute something else?

Crepes are ideal for flexibility and softness, but you can swap in very thin cake layers or even flour tortillas in a pinch. Just be sure whatever you use can roll up without tearing.

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Frozen strawberries work if you’re out of fresh, though they’ll be softer and juicier once macerated. Thaw and drain well before using, and expect a slightly saucier filling.

What’s the best way to crush the cookies or graham crackers?

A zip-top bag and a rolling pin do the job quickly, or use a food processor for a finer crumb. Either method gets you the perfect “shortcake” bite in your Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls.

Are Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls vegetarian?

Yes! All the ingredients called for are vegetarian-friendly. If you’re looking to go vegan, you’ll need to substitute the cream cheese, whipped cream, and butter for plant-based options.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a dreamy blend of cheesecake, strawberries, and that unmistakable shortcake flavor, these Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls are calling your name! Whether for a weekend treat or to impress at your next get-together, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite. Give them a try—one bite and you’ll be rolling with happiness!