Buttery, flaky pastry, silky cheesecake filling, and juicy strawberries all rolled into one decadent bite – if there’s a treat that feels like a party and a warm hug at the same time, it has to be these Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls. Imagine the delicate sweetness of a classic strawberry shortcake colliding with the creamy richness of cheesecake, all wrapped up in golden puff pastry – they’re as fun to make as they are to eat! Whether you need a show-stopping brunch centerpiece, a summer dessert, or a mid-week pick-me-up, these rolls deliver pure joy with every swirl.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of these Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls is how easily pantry staples and fresh strawberries mingle to create something that looks bakery-worthy. Let’s break down what you’ll need – and why each star ingredient matters for flavor, texture, or just that wow-factor finish.
- Puff Pastry Sheet: Store-bought puff pastry makes these rolls impossibly flaky and saves you hours – just thaw before using for best results.
- Cream Cheese (4 oz, softened): The creamy backbone of the cheesecake swirl, so make sure it’s at room temp to blend smoothly.
- Granulated Sugar (2 tbsp): A touch of sweetness to highlight the tangy cream cheese and balance out the fruit.
- Vanilla Extract (1/2 tsp): For that warm, classic bakery aroma and subtle depth in every bite.
- Fresh Strawberries (1/2 cup, diced): The burst of juicy tartness and vibrant color – dice them small so every roll is brimming with fruit.
- Crushed Golden Oreos or Shortbread Cookies (1/4 cup): Adds a playful crunch and a nod to traditional shortcake, choose whichever cookie you have on hand.
- Egg (1, beaten): The key to a glossy, bakery-style golden topping when brushed over the pastry.
- Milk (1 tbsp): Mixed with the egg for that perfect egg wash consistency and even browning.
- Powdered Sugar (for dusting): Delicate, snowy finish that makes these rolls look and taste irresistible.
How to Make Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls
Step 1: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling
In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is ultra-smooth and creamy. This is your cheesecake magic! Make sure you pause to scrape the sides of the bowl so every bit is sweetened and infused with vanilla.
Step 2: Roll Out and Fill the Pastry
On a lightly floured surface, gently roll out the thawed puff pastry into a rectangle. Don’t worry about perfection – about 10 by 12 inches is all you need. Evenly spread your creamy cheesecake filling over the pastry, leaving a small border at the edges so everything stays tucked inside during baking.
Step 3: Add the Strawberries and Crunch
Sprinkle the diced fresh strawberries all across the cream cheese layer, followed by an even dusting of your crushed golden Oreos or shortbread cookie crumbs. These little pops of sweet, tart, and crunch are what transform every bite into a celebration of Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls.
Step 4: Roll and Slice
Starting from the longer side, carefully roll the pastry into a tight log – much like cinnamon rolls. Use a sharp knife to slice into six even pieces, and don’t fret if some filling peeks out, that’s the charm!
Step 5: Arrange and Brush with Egg Wash
Place the rolls flat-side down on your parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them to allow for rising. Whisk the egg with the milk and brush generously over each roll; watch as this transforms into that gorgeous, shiny golden crust in the oven.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake in a preheated 375°F oven for 18 to 22 minutes. The aroma is your first hint you’re making something special! You want the rolls puffed and golden, with the filling melty and bubbling in spots. Cool slightly, then dust generously with powdered sugar for the finishing touch.
How to Serve Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls
Garnishes
Pile on extra diced strawberries for a fresh, colorful look, or add a handful of mint leaves for a pop of green. A sprinkle of crushed cookies on top adds more crunch and whimsy, and don’t forget that classic shower of powdered sugar! For ultimate “bakery window” appeal, drizzle with a simple glaze if you’re feeling extra fancy.
Side Dishes
What pairs with Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls? For brunch, serve alongside a big bowl of mixed fresh fruit, or a tangy lemony yogurt. For an all-out dessert experience, offer a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on the side – they melt dreamily into every warm bite!
Creative Ways to Present
These rolls love a party platter! Stack them high on a tiered cake stand, or nestle each one in a cupcake liner for easy grab-and-go. For a picnic twist, wrap them in wax paper and tie with baker’s twine. Presentation is half the fun, so have fun showing off your Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you miraculously have leftovers, store your Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh for about 2 to 3 days – just know the pastry gets softer the longer it sits, but the flavors meld even more delightfully!
Freezing
You can absolutely freeze baked, cooled rolls. Wrap each individually in plastic wrap, then stash in a freezer bag or sealed container. To serve, thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temp for a couple of hours. This means you can always have a stash of homemade treats ready to go!
Reheating
To refresh that puff pastry flakiness, reheat in a 300°F oven for about 8 to 10 minutes. A quick zap in the microwave works if you’re in a hurry, but the oven does wonders. Dust with fresh powdered sugar right before serving for “just-baked” vibes.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
You can! Just thaw and pat them very dry before adding to the rolls – too much moisture will make the pastry soggy. Fresh strawberries keep the rolls extra light and vibrant, but frozen work in a pinch.
What other cookies can I use besides Oreos or shortbread?
Almost any crisp butter cookie will do – try vanilla wafers, graham crackers, or even digestive biscuits for a hint of honey flavor. The goal is to add a bit of crunch and that “shortcake” feeling.
Can I make these gluten free?
If you have access to gluten-free puff pastry and cookies, absolutely! Everything else in the recipe is naturally gluten free. The texture will be a bit different, but the flavors will still shine.
How do I keep the filling from leaking out?
Leaving a border around the cream cheese and rolling tightly helps, but some slight leaking is normal – it just adds character! Make sure you slice with a sharp knife and use parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Can I double the recipe for a crowd?
Definitely! Just use a second sheet of puff pastry and double all the filling ingredients. You may need to rotate your pans halfway through baking if your oven is packed, but otherwise, it’s a breeze to scale up.
Final Thoughts
Trust me, once you try Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls, they’ll become your new can’t-miss dessert for celebrations, brunches, or those moments when you want to bake something special for yourself or someone you love. Give these a whirl, and get ready for rave reviews and repeat requests!
Print
Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 rolls
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the delightful combination of strawberry shortcake and cheesecake with these easy-to-make and delicious Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls. A perfect dessert for any occasion!
Ingredients
Puff Pastry:
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
Cheesecake Filling:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Filling and Topping:
- 1/2 cup diced fresh strawberries
- 1/4 cup crushed golden Oreos or shortbread cookies
- 1 egg, beaten, for egg wash
- 1 tbsp milk
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat the oven and prepare the pastry: Preheat the oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Mix cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
- Roll out the pastry: Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface. Spread the cream cheese mixture, strawberries, and cookies. Roll up and slice into rolls.
- Bake the rolls: Place rolls on the baking sheet, brush with egg wash, and bake for 18–22 minutes.
- Dust with powdered sugar: Let cool slightly, then dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute strawberries with raspberries or blueberries.
- For extra sweetness, drizzle with a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and milk.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll
- Calories: 240
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
