Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Roll: A Creamy, Fruity Show-Stopping Dessert

If you love classic strawberry shortcake and rich, creamy cheesecake, this Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Roll brings the best of both worlds into one stunning dessert. With a soft vanilla sponge cake rolled around luscious cheesecake filling and fresh strawberry flavor, this elegant dessert is perfect for spring gatherings, summer parties, birthdays, and holidays.

This strawberry shortcake cheesecake roll combines fluffy cake texture, silky cream cheese filling, and the bright sweetness of strawberries in every single bite. Not only is it visually impressive, but it is also surprisingly manageable to make at home with simple ingredients.

Whether you’re looking for a summer strawberry dessert recipe or a beautiful homemade strawberry dessert roll for a celebration, this recipe will become a favorite in your kitchen.

---

Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Roll

• Light and airy sponge cake that rolls beautifully
• Rich yet balanced cheesecake filling
• Fresh strawberry flavor in every slice
• Perfect make-ahead dessert
• Elegant presentation with minimal decoration

This strawberry cheesecake roll cake is ideal for warm weather because it feels light, refreshing, and not overly heavy like traditional baked cheesecakes.

---

Ingredients

For the Vanilla Sponge Cake:

• 4 large eggs
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons milk
• Powdered sugar (for rolling)

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream

For the Strawberry Layer:

• 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice

---

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pan

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Line a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper. Lightly grease the parchment.

Step 2: Make the Sponge Batter

3. In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar together for 4–5 minutes until pale, thick, and fluffy.
4. Add vanilla extract and milk. Mix gently.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt.
6. Carefully fold dry ingredients into the egg mixture using a spatula. Do not overmix.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

7. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan and spread gently.
8. Bake for 10–12 minutes until the cake springs back when lightly touched.

Step 4: Roll the Cake

9. Lay a clean kitchen towel on the counter and dust generously with powdered sugar.
10. Immediately turn the warm cake onto the towel.
11. Carefully peel off parchment paper.
12. Starting from the short end, roll the cake (with the towel inside).
13. Allow it to cool completely while rolled.

Step 5: Prepare the Strawberry Mixture

14. In a bowl, combine chopped strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice.
15. Let sit for 10–15 minutes until slightly juicy.
16. Lightly mash some of the strawberries to create a soft texture.

Step 6: Make the Cheesecake Filling

17. Beat softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
18. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Mix well.
19. In another bowl, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
20. Gently fold whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture.

Step 7: Assemble the Roll

21. Carefully unroll the cooled cake.
22. Spread an even layer of cheesecake filling over the surface.
23. Spoon strawberry mixture evenly across the filling.
24. Gently re-roll the cake without the towel, keeping it tight but not squeezing filling out.

Step 8: Chill and Serve

25. Wrap the roll in plastic wrap.
26. Refrigerate for at least 1–2 hours to set.
27. Slice with a sharp knife and serve chilled.

---

Tips for Perfect Results

1. Beat Eggs Properly

Beating eggs and sugar long enough creates structure in the sponge cake, helping it stay soft and flexible.

2. Roll While Warm

Rolling the cake while warm prevents cracks later. The towel helps the cake “remember” its shape.

3. Do Not Overfill

Too much filling can cause the roll to burst or slide apart.

4. Chill Before Slicing

Refrigeration firms up the cheesecake filling, making clean slices easier.

---

Variations

Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake Roll

Add 2 tablespoons cocoa powder to the sponge batter for a chocolate twist.

Lemon Strawberry Version

Add lemon zest to the filling for a brighter citrus flavor.

Berry Mix Roll

Use raspberries and blueberries along with strawberries for a mixed berry cheesecake roll cake.

No-Fresh-Strawberries Option

Use strawberry preserves if fresh strawberries are out of season.

---

Serving Suggestions

This easy strawberry shortcake cheesecake pairs beautifully with:

• Fresh whipped cream
• A drizzle of strawberry sauce
• A dusting of powdered sugar
• A scoop of vanilla ice cream
• Fresh mint leaves for garnish

For parties, slice into smaller pieces to create elegant dessert platter portions.

---

Storage Instructions

• Store in refrigerator up to 3 days
• Keep tightly wrapped to prevent drying
• Freeze (without garnish) up to 1 month
• Thaw overnight in refrigerator

---

Why Strawberry Shortcake Flavors Work So Well

Strawberries and cream have been a beloved dessert pairing for generations. The balance of sweet berries and rich dairy creates harmony in flavor and texture. By combining these flavors with cheesecake and sponge cake, this strawberry shortcake cheesecake roll elevates a traditional favorite into something more refined and celebration-worthy.

Unlike heavy cheesecakes that require long baking and water baths, this homemade strawberry dessert roll offers a lighter, faster alternative while still delivering creamy indulgence.

---

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes. In fact, it tastes even better after chilling overnight.

Why did my cake crack?

The cake may have been overbaked or not rolled while warm.

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, but thaw and drain excess liquid first.

Is this beginner-friendly?

Yes. While it looks advanced, the steps are simple and approachable.

---

Final Thoughts

This Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Roll is a dessert that combines beauty and flavor in every slice. The soft sponge, creamy filling, and fresh strawberry layer create a balanced treat perfect for summer gatherings, birthdays, brunches, and holidays.

If you’re searching for an easy strawberry shortcake cheesecake that feels elegant yet homemade, this recipe delivers impressive results without complicated techniques.

Once you try it, this strawberry cheesecake roll cake will become a go-to dessert for any occasion.