Introduction: A Sweet and Elegant Treat
Mini Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls combine the fresh, vibrant flavor of strawberries, the creamy richness of cheesecake, and the soft, airy texture of a sponge cake roll. This dessert is not only visually stunning but also incredibly delicious. Whether you’re preparing a dessert for a special occasion or simply looking for a sweet treat to impress your guests, these mini rolls will definitely stand out.
The combination of cream cheese, whipped cream, and fresh strawberries creates a creamy filling that perfectly complements the light and fluffy sponge cake. The crushed graham crackers on top add the perfect amount of crunch, enhancing the texture and flavor profile of the rolls. Plus, the individual portion size of these mini rolls makes them perfect for serving at parties, family gatherings, or simply for enjoying at home.
Let’s get started with this simple yet elegant recipe for Mini Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls!
Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to make Mini Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls:
For the Cake:
- 4 large eggs (for the cake batter)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar (for sweetness)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (for flavor)
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour (for structure)
- 1 tsp baking powder (for lightness)
- Pinch of salt (to balance the sweetness)
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened (for a rich, creamy filling)
- ½ cup powdered sugar (for sweetness)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (to enhance the flavor)
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream (for a smooth, fluffy texture)
- 1 tbsp sugar (to sweeten the whipped cream)
For the Strawberry Filling:
- 1 ½ cups fresh strawberries, diced (for sweetness and flavor)
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar (for macerating the strawberries)
For the Topping:
- Crushed graham crackers (for a crunchy topping)
- Fresh strawberries (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cake
- Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper and lightly grease the paper to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the cake batter: In a medium bowl, beat 4 large eggs and ¾ cup granulated sugar together using an electric mixer on high speed. Beat for about 5-7 minutes, or until the mixture is pale and thick. This step is essential for creating the light, airy texture of the sponge cake.
- Add the vanilla extract: Once the egg-sugar mixture is thick and fluffy, add 1 tsp vanilla extract and mix it in.
- Combine the dry ingredients: In another bowl, sift together ¾ cup all-purpose flour, 1 tsp baking powder, and a pinch of salt.
- Fold in the dry ingredients: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture, being careful not to deflate the batter. You want to keep the batter light and airy.
- Spread the batter in the pan: Pour the batter into the prepared jelly roll pan and spread it evenly using a spatula.
- Bake the cake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until the cake is lightly golden on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool the cake: Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. Then, gently flip it onto a clean kitchen towel or piece of parchment paper dusted with powdered sugar. Remove the parchment paper from the back of the cake and let the cake cool completely.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
- Beat the cream cheese: While the cake is cooling, prepare the cheesecake filling. In a large mixing bowl, beat 8 oz softened cream cheese and ½ cup powdered sugar together using an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
- Whip the cream: In another bowl, whip 1 cup heavy whipping cream and 1 tbsp sugar using an electric mixer on high speed until stiff peaks form.
- Combine the whipped cream and cream cheese mixture: Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until smooth. This will create the light, fluffy cheesecake filling.
- Refrigerate: Once combined, refrigerate the cheesecake filling until ready to assemble the rolls.
Step 3: Prepare the Strawberry Filling
- Macerate the strawberries: In a small bowl, combine the diced 1 ½ cups fresh strawberries with 1 tbsp granulated sugar. Stir to combine, and let the strawberries sit for about 15 minutes. This will release their natural juices and create a syrup-like filling.
Step 4: Assemble the Mini Rolls
- Spread the cheesecake filling: Once the cake has cooled, carefully unroll the cake from the towel or parchment paper. Spread the cheesecake filling evenly over the entire surface of the cake, leaving about ½ inch on the edges.
- Add the strawberry filling: Spoon the macerated strawberries evenly over the cheesecake filling. Be careful not to add too much liquid, as it can make the cake soggy.
- Roll up the cake: Starting from one short edge, gently roll the cake up, using the parchment paper or towel to help you. Roll tightly but not too tight, as you don’t want to squeeze the filling out. Once rolled, the cake should resemble a log.
- Chill the rolls: Wrap the rolled cake in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the flavors set and the cake firm up.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Top with whipped cream: Before serving, top the mini rolls with a dollop of whipped cream and garnish with fresh strawberries for a fresh, colorful touch.
- Sprinkle with crushed graham crackers: Finish by sprinkling the top with crushed graham crackers for an added crunch and a bit of extra flavor.
- Slice and serve: Slice the mini rolls into individual portions, and serve immediately. They can be enjoyed as a decadent dessert or a festive treat for any occasion.
Nutritional Breakdown (per serving)
Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown for each serving of Mini Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls, assuming the recipe makes 8 servings:
- Calories: ~250-300 kcal per serving
- Protein: ~4g
- Carbohydrates: ~35g
- Fat: ~15g
- Fiber: ~1g
- Sugar: ~20g
- Sodium: ~200mg
The nutritional values will vary depending on specific ingredient choices, such as the type of sugar used or the size of the strawberries.
Tips for Success
Here are a few tips to make sure your Mini Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls turn out perfect:
- Use fresh strawberries: Fresh, ripe strawberries will give the filling a vibrant flavor. If you can’t find fresh strawberries, you can use frozen strawberries, but make sure to thaw and drain them before using.
- Roll carefully: When rolling the cake, be gentle to avoid breaking the sponge. It’s important to roll it tightly but not too tightly to prevent squeezing out the filling.
- Chill the cake: Refrigerating the rolled-up cake helps it set, making it easier to slice and serve. This also enhances the flavor and makes the dessert even more delicious.
- Customize the filling: Feel free to add other ingredients to the cheesecake filling, such as chocolate chips, lemon zest, or even a drizzle of chocolate sauce for a different flavor.
Variations
Here are some fun variations you can try for the Mini Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls:
- Mixed Berries: Use a combination of blueberries, blackberries, and strawberries for a mixed berry filling.
- Chocolate Cheesecake Rolls: Add cocoa powder or melted chocolate to the cheesecake filling for a rich chocolate version.
- Vegan Version: Substitute the cream cheese with a vegan cream cheese alternative and use plant-based whipping cream for the filling. Use a dairy-free version of the cake, such as almond milk in place of eggs and milk.
- Coconut Cheesecake Rolls: Add shredded coconut to the filling for a tropical twist.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigeration: Leftover Mini Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: If you have leftovers or want to make them ahead of time, these rolls freeze well. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 1 month. To thaw, place in the fridge overnight or let them sit at room temperature for a few hours.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a fresh fruit salad: A light, refreshing fruit salad pairs wonderfully with these rolls and balances out the sweetness.
- Serve with a cup of tea: These mini rolls are perfect when paired with a hot cup of black tea, green tea, or herbal tea.
Final Thoughts
These Mini Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls are the perfect dessert for any occasion. They combine light, fluffy cake, creamy cheesecake filling, and the bright, refreshing flavor of strawberries, all in one bite-sized roll. With a crispy graham cracker topping, this treat will be a hit at your next gathering or family dinner.
Enjoy this easy-to-make dessert, and feel free to make it your own with different fillings, toppings, or flavor combinations!