Sweet Strawberry Cheesecake Rolls

This sweet strawberry shortcake cheesecake roll recipe transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary dessert that bridges two classic favorites. The marriage of buttery shortcake and tangy cheesecake filling creates a perfect canvas for fresh, juicy strawberries, making these rolls irresistible for any occasion.

I first created these rolls when hosting a spring brunch for my family. Everyone was expecting my usual cinnamon rolls but the look of delight when I served these strawberry-topped beauties instead made them an instant tradition in our home.

Ingredients

• All-purpose flour: creates the perfect tender base for our shortcake rolls
• Granulated sugar: adds just enough sweetness to the dough without overwhelming
• Baking powder: ensures a good rise without the wait time of yeasted dough
• Cold butter: is essential for creating flaky layers in the shortcake base
• Heavy cream: adds richness and helps bind the dough together beautifully
• Cream cheese: provides that signature tangy cheesecake flavor we all love
• Powdered sugar: blends seamlessly into the filling without any grittiness
• Fresh strawberries: bring brightness and natural sweetness to the finished rolls
• Lemon juice: enhances the strawberry flavor and balances the rich filling

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the dough:

Whisk the dry ingredients together thoroughly in a large bowl making sure the baking powder and salt are evenly distributed. Add the cold cubed butter and work it into the flour mixture until you have coarse crumbs about the size of peas. The cold butter creates pockets of steam during baking resulting in a flakier texture. Pour in the heavy cream and vanilla extract gradually while mixing just until the dough comes together. Avoid overmixing which can make the rolls tough.

Create the cheesecake filling:

Beat the softened cream cheese until completely smooth with no lumps remaining. This usually takes about 2 minutes with an electric mixer. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract and mix until well combined and silky smooth. Incorporate the heavy cream and whip until the mixture becomes light and fluffy with a spreadable consistency. The filling should hold its shape but still be easy to spread.

Assemble and roll:

Dust your work surface generously with flour to prevent sticking. Roll the dough into a rectangle approximately 12x9 inches and about 1/4 inch thick. Spread the cheesecake filling evenly across the surface leaving a small border around the edges. Roll the dough tightly from the long edge creating a log shape similar to cinnamon rolls. Use a sharp knife or unflavored dental floss to slice the log into even portions.

Bake to perfection:

Place the rolls on your prepared baking sheet with about an inch of space between them. They will expand slightly during baking. Bake in the preheated oven until the tops are golden brown and the filling is bubbling slightly at the edges. The rolls should feel set when gently pressed in the center. While they bake prepare your strawberry topping by combining the chopped berries with sugar and lemon juice allowing the flavors to meld.

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The secret to these rolls truly lies in the quality of your strawberries. I discovered this one summer when we went strawberry picking at a local farm. The intensely fragrant berries made these rolls absolutely unforgettable compared to when I made them with grocery store berries. If possible seek out farmstand or farmers market strawberries when they're in season.

Make Ahead Options

These rolls work wonderfully as a make-ahead treat. You can prepare the rolls up to the point of baking then cover and refrigerate overnight. Simply allow them to come to room temperature for about 20 minutes before baking the next morning. The strawberry topping can also be prepared a day ahead and stored separately in the refrigerator. This makes them perfect for holiday mornings or special brunches when you want to minimize day-of preparation.

Creative Variations

While the classic strawberry version is delightful consider exploring seasonal adaptations throughout the year. In summer try peaches with a hint of cinnamon in the filling. Fall calls for thinly sliced apples with caramel drizzle instead of berries. Winter citrus season brings opportunities for orange zest in the dough and a blood orange compote topping. Each variation maintains the creamy cheesecake filling but allows you to celebrate seasonal produce all year round.

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Serving Suggestions

These rolls shine brightest when served slightly warm allowing the cheesecake filling to remain soft and creamy. For an extra special presentation dust with powdered sugar just before serving or drizzle with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and cream. These rolls pair beautifully with coffee or tea for breakfast but can also be transformed into an elegant dessert when served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream on the side.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I make these rolls ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough and filling a day in advance, then assemble and bake when ready to serve. Alternatively, you can bake the rolls completely, store them in the refrigerator, and reheat gently in the oven before topping with fresh strawberries.

→ How do I know when the rolls are properly baked?

The rolls should be golden brown on top and the filling should be set, not runny. If you gently press the center of a roll, it should spring back. This typically takes 20-25 minutes at 375°F (190°C).

→ Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but thaw and drain them first to remove excess moisture. Fresh strawberries provide the best texture and flavor, but frozen work well in a pinch, especially when strawberries aren't in season.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream in this recipe?

For the dough, you can substitute half-and-half or whole milk, though the rolls won't be quite as rich. For the filling, full-fat Greek yogurt can work as a tangier alternative to heavy cream, or you can use whipped coconut cream for a dairy-free option.

→ Can I add other fruits to these rolls?

Absolutely! Blueberries, raspberries, peaches, or a mixed berry combination would all work beautifully with the cheesecake filling. Just adjust the sugar content based on the natural sweetness of your chosen fruit.

→ How should I store leftover rolls?

Store leftover rolls in an airtight container for up to 2 days at room temperature or 4 days in the refrigerator. For best results, store the rolls separately from the strawberry topping and add it just before serving. Gently reheat the rolls in the oven or microwave before enjoying.