Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls Recipe

If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert that combines the best of two classic favorites, you’ve got to try these incredible Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls. Imagine soft, pillowy rolls filled with smooth cheesecake and luscious strawberry filling, all topped with a melt-in-your-mouth shortcake crumble and a sweet vanilla glaze. It’s the perfect harmony of tangy, sweet, creamy, and crunchy that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just craving a delightful treat, these rolls bring a fresh twist to your dessert game that’s impossible to resist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of these Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls lies in their simple yet carefully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture that make this recipe truly unforgettable.

• Active dry yeast (2 ¼ tsp): The key to a light and fluffy dough that rises perfectly every time.
• Warm milk (¾ cup): Activates the yeast and adds moisture for tender rolls.
• Granulated sugar (¼ cup + 2 tbsp): Adds just the right amount of sweetness in the dough and strawberry filling.
• Unsalted butter (¼ cup + 2 tbsp): Provides richness to the dough and the crumble topping.
• Large egg (1): Binds ingredients and gives structure to the dough.
• Salt (½ tsp): Enhances all the flavors, balancing sweetness.
• All-purpose flour (3 cups): The backbone of the dough, giving it structure and chew.
• Cream cheese (8 oz): For that creamy, tangy cheesecake filling that makes these rolls stand out.
• Powdered sugar (½ cup + 1 cup): Smooths out the cheesecake filling and forms the sweet glaze.
• Vanilla extract (1 ½ tsp): Adds a lovely fragrant warmth to both filling and glaze.
• Fresh strawberries (1 ½ cups): Juicy, diced, and cooked down to the perfect strawberry filling.
• Cornstarch (1 tbsp): Helps thicken the strawberry filling for that perfect consistency.
• Lemon juice (1 tbsp): Brightens the strawberry flavor with a hint of tang.
• Vanilla wafers (½ cup): Crushed to create the delightful shortcake crumble topping.
• Freeze-dried strawberries (½ cup): Adds vibrant strawberry crunch to the crumble.
• Milk (2 tbsp): Used in the glaze to achieve that silky drizzle.

How to Make Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by activating your yeast in warm milk—this foams up quickly and signals it’s alive and ready to work. Then, mix the sugar, melted butter, egg, and salt before combining with the yeast mixture. Gradually add the flour and knead until your dough feels smooth and elastic, which takes about 8 to 10 minutes by hand or with a stand mixer. Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm spot until it doubles in size—this creates that wonderfully airy texture.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

While the dough is rising, whip up your creamy cheesecake filling by beating the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla until completely smooth. This velvety filling will be spread generously over the rolled-out dough, so make sure it’s lump-free and perfectly sweetened to complement the strawberries.

Step 3: Prepare the Strawberry Filling

Next, it’s time to cook down your diced strawberries with sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir continuously until the mixture thickens—about five minutes—and then let it cool. The lemon juice brightens the berries’ natural sweetness, giving the filling an irresistible depth of flavor and just the right amount of drizzle that won’t soak into the dough.

Step 4: Make the Shortcake Crumble

While waiting, combine crushed vanilla wafers and freeze-dried strawberries with melted butter to create the crumble. This topping adds a delightful crunch and burst of strawberry flavor that perfectly balances the softness of the rolls after baking.

Step 5: Assemble the Rolls

Roll out the dough into a thin rectangle, about ¼-inch thick. Spread the cheesecake filling evenly across the dough, then layer on the cooled strawberry filling. Carefully roll the dough up tightly from the long side, creating a beautiful swirl of flavors inside. Cut the roll into 12 equal portions and place them in a greased baking dish for their second rise.

Step 6: Bake

Let the rolls rise for another 30 minutes until puffy. Then bake them in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 20 to 25 minutes until golden brown on top. The aroma at this stage is pure happiness—soft dough, melted cream cheese, and fragrant berries all coming together.

Step 7: Add the Glaze and Topping

Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla to form a smooth glaze. Drizzle this over the warm rolls and immediately sprinkle with the shortcake crumble. The glaze seeps into every crevice, while the crumble stays crisp for a perfect texture contrast.

How to Serve Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls

Garnishes

To elevate your Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls, try topping them with a few whole fresh strawberries or a dusting of powdered sugar. A dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of finely chopped mint leaves can add a fresh, elegant touch. These little extras make the presentation pop and add layers of flavor that wow your guests.

Side Dishes

These rolls pair beautifully with a hot cup of coffee, a rich chai latte, or even a glass of cold milk. For a more indulgent treat, serve with vanilla ice cream or a scoop of strawberry sorbet. Breakfast or dessert, this combo satisfies all your cravings.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the rolls in a rustic wooden tray for a cozy, farmhouse vibe or arrange them on a pretty cake stand to add a touch of elegance. You can also turn these rolls into individual portions using decorative cupcake liners before baking, making it easy to grab and go while still impressing with the look.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store the rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Keeping them covered prevents the rolls from drying out while preserving their soft, cheesy goodness.

Freezing

These rolls freeze beautifully either before or after baking. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, and freeze for up to three months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm gently in the oven to restore that fresh-baked flavor.

Reheating

Warm your rolls in a 300°F oven for about 10 to 15 minutes until heated through and soft. You can add a quick drizzle of fresh glaze or a dusting of powdered sugar after reheating to bring back their irresistible charm.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries for the filling?

Yes, frozen strawberries work well too! Just be sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before cooking the filling to avoid it becoming too watery.

Is it possible to make these rolls dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute cream cheese and butter with dairy-free alternatives like vegan cream cheese and margarine. The texture and flavor might be slightly different but still delicious.

How long do the rolls need to rise?

The initial rise should be about 1 hour or until doubled in size, and the second rise after shaping takes around 30 minutes. These times ensure your rolls stay soft and fluffy.

Can I prepare the dough the night before?

Yes! You can prepare the dough and let it rise in the fridge overnight. Just take it out an hour before assembling to let it come to room temperature for easier handling.

What’s the best way to cut the rolls evenly?

A sharp serrated knife works best, and wiping the blade clean between cuts helps prevent squishing. Measuring the dough log and marking equal sections with a knife tip also makes cutting easier.

Final Thoughts

These Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls are truly a labor of love that yields a dessert bursting with flavor and texture. Once you try making them at home, they’ll quickly become a new favorite for celebrations or cozy weekends alike. Don’t wait to share this joyful recipe with the people you love — their smiles will tell you all you need to know!

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