Introduction
Transform everyday ingredients into a show-stopping dessert with our Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Roll! This recipe is all about easy elegance – minimal fuss, maximum flavor, perfect for family gatherings or a special treat for yourself. Forget complicated techniques; this recipe is designed for even the busiest home bakers. Get ready to wow your loved ones with this light and fluffy masterpiece!
Why This Works
This Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Roll hits all the right notes: tender sponge cake, creamy cheesecake filling, and the sweet tang of fresh strawberries. The roll-up design is both fun and visually appealing, making it a perfect dessert for any occasion. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make!
Key Ingredients
🍓 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
🍰 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
🥛 1/2 cup heavy cream
🍯 1/4 cup powdered sugar
🥚 2 large eggs
🧈 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
🍚 1 cup all-purpose flour
🍬 1/2 cup granulated sugar
🍋 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
🎈 1 teaspoon baking powder
🤏 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat & Prep: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease and flour a 15×10 inch jelly roll pan. Line the bottom with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the long sides to help with rolling.
2️⃣ Make the Cake: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla.
3️⃣ Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Don’t overmix!
4️⃣ Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
5️⃣ Cool & Roll: Immediately invert the cake onto a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar. Carefully peel off the parchment paper. Starting from the short end, gently roll the cake up with the towel. Let it cool completely.
6️⃣ Cheesecake Filling: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and beat until combined. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture.
7️⃣ Assemble the Roll: Carefully unroll the cooled cake. Spread the cheesecake filling evenly over the cake. Arrange the sliced strawberries over the filling.
8️⃣ Roll & Chill: Starting from the short end, carefully roll the cake back up tightly. Wrap the roll in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the filling to set.
9️⃣ Slice & Serve: Slice and serve chilled.
Handy Tips
- Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor.
- Don’t overmix the cake batter, or the cake will be tough.
- If you don’t have a jelly roll pan, you can use a baking sheet, but you may need to adjust the baking time.
Heat Control
Baking at 375°F (190°C) ensures a perfectly golden-brown and moist sponge cake. Too low a temperature, and the cake may be dense; too high, and it will burn. A toothpick test is your best guide for doneness.
Crunch Factor
While the cake itself is soft and tender, the contrast with the creamy cheesecake filling and the slightly tart strawberries provides a delightful textural experience.
Pro Kitchen Tricks
- For a richer flavor, use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar in the cake batter.
- Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the cake batter for a bright citrusy note.
- To make the rolling process easier, use a slightly damp kitchen towel instead of a dry one.
Storage Tips
Store leftover Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Roll in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out.
Gift Packaging Ideas
Present your Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Roll in a pretty cake box lined with parchment paper or a decorative baking sleeve. Add a ribbon and a personalized tag for a truly special gift.
Flavor Variations
🌟 Lemon Strawberry: Add lemon zest and lemon juice to both the cake batter and the cheesecake filling.
🌟 Raspberry Swirl: Use raspberries instead of strawberries, or combine them for a mixed berry delight.
🌟 Chocolate Kiss: Drizzle melted chocolate over the finished roll for an extra decadent touch.
🌟 Mint Chocolate Chip: Add crushed chocolate cookies to the cheesecake filling and use fresh mint leaves as a garnish.
Troubleshooting
- Cake is dry: You may have overbaked it. Next time, check for doneness earlier.
- Cake cracked while rolling: The cake may have been too thin, or you rolled it too tightly. Try a thicker cake batter and roll gently.
- Filling is too runny: Ensure your heavy cream is whipped to stiff peaks.
FAQ
- Can I make the cake and filling ahead of time? Yes, the cake can be baked a day in advance and the filling can be made several hours in advance.
- Can I freeze this cheesecake roll? Freezing is not recommended as it can affect the texture and flavor.
- What kind of strawberries are best? Use ripe, but firm strawberries for the best results.
- Can I use a different type of cream cheese? You can, but ensure it’s full fat for the best consistency.
Conclusion
This Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Roll is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! It’s a delicious and stunning dessert that’s surprisingly easy to make. We hope you enjoy making and sharing this recipe with your loved ones! Don’t forget to share your creations with us on social media using #AngelRecipes!