Description: These delightful Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls combine the flaky goodness of puff pastry with a creamy cheesecake filling and the fresh, sweet taste of strawberries. They are easy to make and perfect for a dessert or a sweet snack.
Ingredients:
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 1/2 cup fresh strawberries, finely chopped
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup strawberry jam
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- 1/4 cup crushed golden sandwich cookies (for topping, optional)
- 1 tablespoon melted butter (for brushing)
Preparation:
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures the rolls don’t stick and bake evenly.
- Step 2: In a small bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Ensure the cream cheese is properly softened to avoid lumps in the filling.
- Step 3: On a lightly floured surface, unfold the puff pastry and gently roll it out to slightly enlarge. This makes it easier to spread the filling evenly and creates more layers in the rolls.
- Step 4: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the surface of the puff pastry. Then, spread a thin layer of strawberry jam over the cream cheese, and sprinkle the chopped strawberries on top. Be careful not to overfill to prevent leakage during baking.
- Step 5: Starting from one edge, roll the pastry tightly into a log. Slice into 6–8 even rolls. This step is crucial for creating the swirl effect in each roll.
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a small bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until the mixture is smooth and creamy, ensuring no lumps remain.
- Lightly flour a clean, flat surface. Unfold the thawed puff pastry and gently roll it out with a rolling pin to slightly enlarge it. This helps to create more layers when rolled and provides a larger surface area for the filling.
- Evenly spread the cream cheese mixture over the entire surface of the puff pastry. Next, spread a thin layer of strawberry jam over the cream cheese layer. Sprinkle the finely chopped fresh strawberries evenly over the jam.
- Starting from one edge, tightly roll the puff pastry into a log. Make sure the roll is snug to keep the filling intact while baking. Once rolled, slice the log into 6–8 even rolls using a sharp knife.
- Place the rolls flat on the prepared baking sheet, giving them a little space to expand. Lightly brush the tops of the rolls with egg wash to achieve a golden-brown color during baking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 18–22 minutes, or until the rolls are golden and puffed up. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
- Remove the rolls from the oven. While still warm, brush them with melted butter and sprinkle with crushed golden sandwich cookies for a delightful shortcake-style topping, if desired. This adds a nice crunch and enhances the overall flavor.
- Let the rolls cool slightly on the baking sheet before serving.
Why will you love this recipe?
These Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls are incredibly easy to make and deliver a burst of flavor in every bite. The combination of flaky puff pastry, creamy cheesecake filling, and fresh strawberries is irresistible. They are perfect for a quick dessert, a sweet brunch addition, or a delightful snack any time of the day. Plus, they are customizable – you can easily swap the strawberry jam for other fruit preserves or add a sprinkle of cinnamon for a warm, comforting twist. The simplicity and deliciousness of these rolls make them a definite crowd-pleaser.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Enjoy chilled straight from the refrigerator for a refreshing treat.
- Dust with extra powdered sugar for an elegant presentation.
- Serve alongside a fresh fruit salad for a complete dessert experience.
Tips:
- Ensure your cream cheese is properly softened to avoid lumps in the filling.
- Don’t overfill the rolls to prevent the filling from leaking during baking.
- Use a sharp knife to slice the rolls evenly for a uniform appearance.
- For a richer flavor, try using homemade strawberry jam.
- Store leftover rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Prep Time: 20 minutes Cook Time: 20 minutes Total Time: 40 minutes
Nutritional Information (per roll, approximate):
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 4g
- Sodium: 150mg
Conclusion:
Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls are a delightful twist on classic flavors, offering a simple yet satisfying treat. With minimal effort, you can create a dessert that is sure to impress. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is easy to follow and delivers consistently delicious results. Enjoy the perfect blend of flaky pastry, creamy filling, and sweet strawberries in every bite!
Questions and Answers about this recipe:
Q1: Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh strawberries?
A1: While fresh strawberries are ideal for their texture and flavor, you can use frozen strawberries if necessary. Make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before chopping and adding them to the rolls. Keep in mind that frozen strawberries may release more moisture during baking, so the filling might be slightly softer.
Q2: Can I substitute the strawberry jam with another type of jam or preserve?
A2: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different flavors. Raspberry, blueberry, or even apricot jam would work wonderfully in this recipe. Choose a jam that complements the cream cheese and pastry for a unique twist.
Q3: What is the best way to store leftover Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls?
A3: To keep your rolls fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay good for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, you can warm them slightly in the oven or microwave for that fresh-baked taste.
Q4: Can I make these rolls ahead of time and bake them later?
A4: Yes, you can prepare the rolls ahead of time. Assemble the rolls and place them on the baking sheet, then cover them tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to bake, brush them with egg wash and bake as directed. This is a great option for entertaining or meal prepping.
Q5: What can I use if I don’t have golden sandwich cookies for the topping?
A5: If you don’t have golden sandwich cookies, you can use other toppings like crushed graham crackers, almond slices, or even a simple dusting of powdered sugar. Alternatively, you can omit the topping altogether – the rolls will still be delicious! The crushed cookies add a nice texture and flavor, but they are not essential.
