Description of this recipe
These Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls are a delightful twist on classic strawberry shortcake, combined with the creamy indulgence of cheesecake, all wrapped in flaky puff pastry. Each bite offers a symphony of textures and flavors: the buttery crispness of the pastry, the smooth richness of the cream cheese filling, and the sweet tang of fresh strawberries. Perfect for a brunch treat, a sweet snack, or a delightful dessert, these rolls are easy to make and guaranteed to impress.
Why you will love this recipe
You’ll fall in love with these rolls because they capture the essence of summer in every bite. The combination of the familiar strawberry shortcake flavors with the creamy cheesecake filling creates a unique and irresistible treat. They are also incredibly versatile; serve them warm for a comforting dessert or chilled for a refreshing snack. The ease of preparation, thanks to store-bought puff pastry, means you can whip up a batch in no time, making them perfect for both planned gatherings and spontaneous sweet cravings. Plus, the customizable toppings allow you to add your personal touch, making each batch uniquely yours. These rolls are not just delicious; they’re a fun and creative way to enjoy the beloved flavors of strawberry shortcake and cheesecake in a new and exciting format.
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. Preheating the oven ensures that the puff pastry rises properly and cooks evenly, resulting in a perfectly golden and flaky exterior. Lining the baking sheet with parchment paper prevents the rolls from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. This initial step is crucial for achieving the desired texture and appearance of the finished product.
Step 2: In a small bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Ensure that the cream cheese is properly softened to avoid any lumps in the filling. The powdered sugar sweetens the cream cheese while providing a smooth texture. The vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor, adding a subtle warmth and depth. Mix these ingredients thoroughly until the mixture is light, airy, and completely uniform. This creamy base is essential for the cheesecake element of the rolls.
Step 3: On a lightly floured surface, unfold the puff pastry and gently roll it out to slightly enlarge. A lightly floured surface prevents the puff pastry from sticking, making it easier to work with. Gently rolling out the pastry ensures that it’s thin enough to create multiple layers when rolled up, resulting in a flakier texture. Be careful not to over-roll, as this can compromise the pastry’s ability to rise properly. The goal is to slightly increase the surface area without making the pastry too thin.
Step 4: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the surface. Distribute the cream cheese filling evenly to ensure that each roll has a consistent amount of creamy goodness. A thin, even layer will also prevent the filling from oozing out during baking. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to create a smooth, uniform layer that covers the entire pastry surface.
Step 5: Spread a thin layer of strawberry jam over the cream cheese, then sprinkle the chopped strawberries on top. The strawberry jam adds a concentrated burst of strawberry flavor that complements the fresh strawberries. A thin layer of jam ensures that the rolls aren’t overly sweet. Sprinkling the chopped strawberries evenly over the jam provides a fresh, juicy element that ties the flavors together. The combination of jam and fresh berries delivers a balanced and vibrant strawberry experience.
Step 6: Starting from one edge, roll the pastry tightly into a log. Rolling the pastry tightly ensures that the rolls hold their shape during baking and create distinct layers of pastry and filling. A tight roll also prevents large air pockets from forming, which can lead to uneven cooking. Press gently as you roll to seal the edges and maintain a uniform shape.
Step 7: Slice into 6–8 even rolls. Use a sharp knife to slice the log into even portions, ensuring that each roll is approximately the same size. This ensures that they bake evenly and have a consistent appearance. Aim for about 1.5-inch thick slices for a good balance of pastry and filling.
Step 8: Place the rolls flat on the prepared baking sheet. Arrange the rolls on the parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving a little space between each to allow for proper expansion during baking. Placing them flat ensures that they bake evenly and maintain their shape.
Step 9: Brush the tops lightly with egg wash. Egg wash gives the rolls a beautiful golden-brown color and a slightly glossy finish. Whisk an egg with a tablespoon of water to create the egg wash. Brush the tops of the rolls evenly, being careful not to let the egg wash drip down the sides, as this can prevent the pastry from rising properly.
Step 10: Bake for 18–22 minutes or until golden and puffed. Baking time may vary depending on your oven, so keep a close eye on the rolls. They’re done when the pastry is golden brown and the filling is set. The puff pastry should be visibly puffed and flaky.
Step 11: Once out of the oven, brush with melted butter and sprinkle with crushed cookies for a shortcake-style topping, if desired. Brushing the warm rolls with melted butter adds a rich, buttery flavor and enhances the golden color. The crushed golden sandwich cookies mimic the texture and flavor of shortcake, adding a delightful crunch and a familiar taste to the rolls. This step is optional but highly recommended for that authentic strawberry shortcake experience.
Step 12: Let cool slightly before serving. Cooling the rolls slightly allows the filling to set and prevents them from being too hot to handle. They’re delicious served warm, but they can also be enjoyed at room temperature or chilled.
COOKING Rating:
Easy
Serving Suggestions:
These Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls can be served as a delightful dessert, a sweet brunch treat, or a satisfying snack. They pair perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a more elegant presentation, drizzle with a strawberry sauce or a dusting of powdered sugar. They’re also delicious with a cup of coffee or tea.
Tips:
- Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps in the filling.
- Don’t over-roll the puff pastry, as this can prevent it from rising properly.
- Use a sharp knife to slice the rolls for clean, even cuts.
- Keep a close eye on the rolls during baking to prevent burning.
- For a richer flavor, use a high-quality strawberry jam.
- Customize the toppings with different crushed cookies, nuts, or sprinkles.
- Store leftovers 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:
(Approximate values per roll, may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes)
Calories:
Approximately 250-300 calories
Protein:
Approximately 4-5 grams
Sodium:
Approximately 150-200 mg
Conclusion
These Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls are a delightful and easy-to-make treat that combines the best of strawberry shortcake and cheesecake. With their flaky pastry, creamy filling, and fresh strawberry flavor, they’re sure to be a hit with everyone. Whether you’re looking for a sweet dessert, a fun brunch option, or a delicious snack, these rolls are the perfect choice. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a taste of summer in every bite!
Questions and Answers:
Q1: Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh strawberries?
A: While fresh strawberries are recommended for the best flavor and texture, you can use frozen strawberries if necessary. Be sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before chopping and adding them to the filling. Keep in mind that frozen strawberries may release more moisture during baking, so the filling might be a bit softer.
Q2: Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the rolls ahead of time and bake them just before serving. Assemble the rolls and place them on the baking sheet, then cover them tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, remove them from the refrigerator and let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before brushing with egg wash and baking as directed.
Q3: Can I use a different type of jam?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different types of jam to customize the flavor of the rolls. Raspberry jam, blueberry jam, or even a mixed berry jam would all be delicious alternatives to strawberry jam. Consider using a jam that complements the fresh fruit you’re using.
Q4: What can I use if I don’t have golden sandwich cookies for the topping?
A: If you don’t have golden sandwich cookies, you can use other types of cookies or even crushed graham crackers for the topping. Alternatively, you can sprinkle the rolls with chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, or simply omit the topping altogether.
Q5: Can I make these rolls gluten-free?
A: To make these rolls gluten-free, you would need to substitute the regular puff pastry with a gluten-free puff pastry. Keep in mind that gluten-free puff pastry can be more delicate and may require some adjustments to the baking time. Additionally, ensure that all other ingredients, including the crushed cookies for the topping, are also gluten-free.
