Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls Recipe
If you’re looking for a dessert that’s as charming as it is delicious, Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls are the answer! This recipe brings together the creamy tanginess of cheesecake, the sweet juiciness of strawberries, and the buttery crunch of shortbread cookies, all wrapped in flaky crescent roll dough. Every bite is a celebration of flavors and textures that will have your friends and family swooning. Whether you’re serving them warm out of the oven or at a special brunch, these rolls are the kind of treat that disappears in a flash and leaves everyone asking for the recipe.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in these Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls plays a starring role, coming together to create a dessert that’s both nostalgic and impressive. You don’t need anything fancy, just simple staples that promise big rewards in every bite!
- Refrigerated crescent roll dough: The shortcut to perfectly flaky, golden rolls without any fuss.
- Cream cheese (8 ounces, softened): Gives the filling its luscious, creamy cheesecake flavor and irresistible texture.
- Granulated sugar (1/3 cup): Sweetens the filling just right and balances the tangy cream cheese.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Adds warmth and depth, taking the filling from good to unforgettable.
- Fresh strawberries (1 cup, diced): Bursts of juicy, bright flavor that make every bite sing.
- Strawberry jam (1/4 cup): Intensifies the berry flavor and adds a touch of sticky sweetness.
- Crushed shortbread cookies (1 cup): Offers buttery crunch and the true spirit of shortcake in every roll.
- Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons, melted): Helps the shortbread topping stick and bakes up to a beautiful golden finish.
- Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional): A snowy finish for extra sweetness and that classic bakery look.
How to Make Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Sheet and Preheat
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, so nothing sticks and cleanup is a breeze. This step ensures your Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls bake up evenly and slide right off the pan when they’re done.
Step 2: Mix the Cheesecake Filling
In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. This luscious mixture is the heart of the rolls, giving you that classic cheesecake flavor in every bite.
Step 3: Assemble the Crescents
Unroll the crescent roll dough and separate it into triangles. On each triangle, spread a thin but generous layer of the cream cheese filling, making sure to leave a little border so it doesn’t ooze out during baking. Top each with a spoonful of diced strawberries and a small dab of strawberry jam for extra berry goodness.
Step 4: Roll and Top
Roll up each triangle from the wide end to the tip, forming classic crescent shapes. Place them on your prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each one. Brush the tops with melted butter, then sprinkle generously with crushed shortbread cookies. This step gives your Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls irresistible crunch and that signature shortcake vibe.
Step 5: Bake and Finish
Bake the rolls for 12 to 15 minutes, or until they’re puffed and golden brown. Let them cool for a few minutes before dusting with powdered sugar if you like a little extra sweetness. Serve warm for gooey, melty centers, or at room temperature for a firmer, creamier filling.
How to Serve Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls
Garnishes
Take these rolls from tasty to totally show-stopping with a few thoughtful garnishes. A dusting of powdered sugar adds a soft, snowy finish, while a drizzle of simple glaze (just mix powdered sugar and a splash of milk) is perfect for those with a sweet tooth. Fresh mint leaves or extra chopped strawberries make a lovely, colorful touch.
Side Dishes
Pair your Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream for a dreamy dessert plate. For brunch, serve alongside fresh fruit salad or a cold glass of milk to balance out the sweetness and make it a complete treat.
Creative Ways to Present
These rolls look beautiful stacked on a cake stand or arranged in a spiral on a platter. For parties, cut each roll in half and skewer with a toothpick for bite-size treats. You can also tuck a few into a pretty bakery box as a thoughtful homemade gift for friends or neighbors!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftover Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh for up to three days, and you can enjoy them cold or reheat for a warm, melty filling.
Freezing
Want to save some for later? Freeze cooled rolls on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag once solid. They’ll keep their flavor and texture for up to two months. Thaw in the fridge overnight for a sweet treat anytime.
Reheating
To reheat, pop the rolls in a 300°F oven for 5-7 minutes or until warmed through. This brings back the crispness without drying them out. Microwave reheating works for a quick fix, but the oven is best for keeping the outside flaky.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain them well so your filling doesn’t get watery. Frozen strawberries are a great option when fresh aren’t in season and still bring plenty of flavor to your Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the rolls a few hours ahead and keep them covered in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. This makes them perfect for parties or busy mornings when you want to serve something special with minimal effort.
What’s the best way to crush the shortbread cookies?
For even crumbs, pulse the cookies in a food processor. If you prefer more texture, crush them in a zip-top bag with a rolling pin. Either way, the buttery crunch is a must-have topping for your Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls.
Can I swap the strawberry jam for another flavor?
Definitely! Raspberry, blueberry, or even apricot jam would be delicious. Feel free to experiment with your favorite flavors to put your own spin on these cheesecake rolls.
How do I keep the filling from oozing out?
Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly, but don’t overfill, and be sure to leave a small border around the edge of the dough. Rolling from the wide end to the tip helps keep everything tucked inside during baking.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something magical about sharing a plate of Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls with people you love. They’re easy enough for a weeknight treat, yet beautiful and delicious enough for any celebration. Give this recipe a try, and you might find it becomes a new favorite in your dessert rotation!
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Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 rolls 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls are a delightful and easy-to-make dessert combining creamy cheesecake filling, fresh strawberries, and sweet crescent rolls. With a crispy shortbread cookie topping and a touch of strawberry jam, these warm, flaky rolls capture the essence of classic strawberry shortcake in a convenient handheld treat.
Ingredients
Filling
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, diced
- 1/4 cup strawberry jam
Dough and Topping
- 1 package refrigerated crescent roll dough
- 1 cup crushed shortbread cookies
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Oven and Baking Sheet: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Make Cheesecake Mixture: In a medium bowl, beat together softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy, creating the cheesecake filling.
- Prepare Crescent Dough: Unroll the refrigerated crescent roll dough and separate it into individual triangles ready for filling.
- Assemble Rolls: Spread a thin layer of the cream cheese mixture evenly onto each crescent triangle. Add a spoonful of diced fresh strawberries and a small dab of strawberry jam on top of the cream cheese layer.
- Roll the Crescents: Starting from the wide end, roll up each triangle tightly to form crescent rolls, placing them seam side down on the prepared baking sheet.
- Add Toppings: Brush the tops of each roll with melted unsalted butter, then sprinkle crushed shortbread cookies evenly over the tops for added texture and crunch.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the rolls turn golden brown and are cooked through.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the rolls from the oven and let cool slightly. Dust with powdered sugar if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature for the best flavor.
Notes
- For extra sweetness, drizzle the rolls with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk after baking.
- Frozen strawberries can be used when thawed completely and drained well to avoid excess moisture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 13 g
- Sodium: 230 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 25 mg
