If you love the flavors of traditional strawberry shortcake and cheesecake, you’re in for a treat with these Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls! Combining creamy cheesecake filling, fresh strawberries, and a crunchy shortbread layer, these rolled desserts are the perfect fusion of two classic favorites. Wrapped in delicate crepes or cake layers, they offer a visually stunning and irresistibly delicious treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- One 8-ounce package of cream cheese, at room temperature
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream, whipped to stiff peaks
For the Strawberry Filling:
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, diced
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (for macerating the strawberries)
For the Shortcake Layer:
- 1 1/2 cups of crumbled shortbread cookies or graham crackers
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
For Assembly:
- 6 large crepes or thin cake layers, store-bought or homemade
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:
- In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with 1/4 cup granulated sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- In a separate bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream to stiff peaks using a hand mixer or stand mixer.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until well combined and light in texture. Set aside in the refrigerator to chill.
2. Macerate the Strawberries:
- In a small bowl, combine the diced strawberries with 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar. Stir and let the mixture sit for about 10–15 minutes, allowing the strawberries to release their juices and become more flavorful.
3. Prepare the Shortcake Layer:
- In a bowl, mix the crushed shortbread cookies or graham crackers with the melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Press the mixture into an even layer on a lined baking sheet or plate, and let it chill in the fridge for 10 minutes to firm up.
4. Assemble the Rolls:
- Lay a crepe or cake layer flat on a clean surface. Spread a generous layer of the cream cheese filling down the center, leaving space at the edges for rolling.
- Spoon a layer of the macerated strawberries on top of the cheesecake filling.
- Sprinkle some of the chilled shortcake mixture over the strawberries for a crunchy layer.
- Gently roll up the crepe or cake layer, tucking in the edges as you go, similar to rolling a burrito.
5. Chill and Serve:
- Once all the rolls are assembled, place them in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to set.
- Before serving, dust the rolls with powdered sugar for a sweet finish.
Conclusion:
These Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls are the ultimate indulgence, offering a perfect balance of creamy cheesecake, tangy strawberries, and a satisfying shortbread crunch, all wrapped in delicate crepes or thin cake layers. Light yet decadent, they are sure to impress at your next gathering or make a delightful dessert any time you’re craving something sweet and refreshing. Enjoy them chilled for the best texture and flavor!