Homemade Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake

This strawberry shortcake cheesecake roll is a showstopper dessert that layers soft sponge cake with creamy cheesecake filling and a playful strawberry shortcake crumble on top. If you love classic strawberry shortcake but want something a little extra for a gathering or summer celebration this cake roll never fails to impress.

Ingredients

• Eggs: Large eggs create the tall fluffy structure you need for a good sponge Always use fresh eggs when possible
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake and helps the eggs whip up to a light soft foam
• Vanilla extract: Adds an inviting fragrance and warmth Pick high quality vanilla for the very best flavor
• All-purpose flour: The base for your cake Sift for the fluffiest texture
• Baking powder: Leavens the sponge so you get a good roll
• Salt: Makes the flavors pop in every bite
• Whole milk: Adds extra moisture so your sponge is tender but not soggy
• Finely chopped strawberries: These go right in the batter bringing fresh fruit flavor into each slice Pick ripe deep red berries for the juiciest taste
• Cream cheese: The heart of the cheesecake filling Softened cream cheese gives you a velvety smooth texture
• Powdered sugar: Sweetens the filling and combines easily
• Heavy whipping cream: Whipped to stiff peaks this lightens the cheesecake so it is cloudlike rather than dense
• Golden Oreos: The key for the signature shortcake crumble Go for the freshest ones you can find for maximum crunch
• Strawberry gelatin powder: Boosts that signature pink crumb and brings nostalgic shortcake flavor
• Melted butter: Brings everything together into buttery crumbles
• Fresh strawberries: Lush vibrant fresh berries make for the best topping Always slice right before serving for brightest color and taste
• Whipped cream: For fluff and decoration on top
• Strawberry sauce: Drizzling adds a burst of sweet strawberry finish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the Sponge Cake:

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and line a nine by thirteen inch baking sheet with parchment paper Make sure the paper fits and extends beyond the edges to help with rolling

Beat Eggs and Sugar:

Whip the eggs and granulated sugar together for several minutes until the mix is pale thick and looks like cake batter ribbons forming when you lift the beaters This step is what makes a true sponge cake base

Add Vanilla and Dry Ingredients:

Stir in the vanilla extract Next sift the flour baking powder and salt right over the bowl then fold them in gently to keep the batter airy

Incorporate Milk and Strawberries:

Blend in the whole milk just until smooth Then fold in the finely chopped strawberries for juicy pockets throughout the cake

Bake the Sponge:

Spread the batter in an even layer to the pan corners and bake for ten to twelve minutes The sponge should look set but spring back when pressed gently in the center

Roll the Warm Cake:

Quickly while still warm lift the cake from the pan using the parchment and roll it up with the parchment inside to prevent sticking Let the rolled cake cool completely in its shape

Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:

Beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract in a mixing bowl until perfectly smooth and creamy

Whip the Cream:

In a second bowl beat the heavy cream until stiff peaks form so it can hold its shape

Combine and Fold:

Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture moving the spatula in slow circles to keep the filling light and fluffy

Assemble the Cake Roll:

Carefully unroll your cooled sponge cake Spread a thick even layer of the cheesecake filling right to the edges Carefully roll it up again this time without the parchment Wrap tightly in plastic and let chill in the fridge for at least two hours so it sets up and slices neatly

Make the Strawberry Shortcake Crumble:

Crush the Golden Oreos until you have small crumbs and stir together with strawberry gelatin powder and melted butter Mix until the crumbles look sandy and colorful

Decorate the Roll:

Coat the outside of the roll with the remaining cheesecake filling using a spatula to cover the entire surface Press the strawberry crumble all over the top

Final Toppings and Serve:

Lay generous heaps of whipped cream and sliced fresh strawberries down the middle then finish with drizzled strawberry sauce Slice thick rounds with a sharp knife and serve cold

Save

This dessert stays soft and moist for days if stored properly You can swap strawberries for blueberries or peaches for a fun seasonal twist The roll slices cleanly after chilling which makes it great for picnics or make-ahead entertaining I always save Golden Oreos just for this recipe because the cookie crumble is my absolute favorite part My kids love to help press the crumble onto the cake and sneak a few for themselves every time

Storage Tips

Once assembled wrap the cake roll tightly in plastic or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator It will stay fresh for up to three days If adding fresh strawberries on top do so just before serving so they do not get soggy

Ingredient Substitutions

You can switch the strawberry gelatin for raspberry or cherry for a slightly different shortcake vibe Regular Oreos can stand in for Golden ones with a different twist and mascarpone cheese gives the filling a rich Italian flair if you want to try something new

Serving Suggestions

Slice thick rounds and serve on their own or top each piece with extra whipped cream Or turn the roll into a party centerpiece by stacking slices with fresh berries and a dusting of powdered sugar for a dramatic presentation

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Cultural and Historical Context

This dessert combines classic American strawberry shortcake with a Japanese dessert roll twist The fluffy cake and fruit layers make it light and appealing even after a big summer meal It is perfect for family picnics or celebrations where the nostalgia of strawberry shortcake meets a modern look

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I prevent the cake from cracking when rolling?

Roll the cake while it's still warm using parchment paper and a damp towel. This helps it hold shape without splitting.

→ Can I use other fruits instead of strawberries?

Absolutely! Blueberries, raspberries, or peaches work beautifully as an alternative for the filling or crumble.

→ How long should I chill the roll before slicing?

Chill for at least 2 hours to allow the filling to set and ensure clean, even slices when serving.

→ What type of cookies can substitute golden Oreos in the crumble?

Shortbread cookies, vanilla wafers, or graham crackers make excellent substitutes for the crumble topping.

→ Can I prepare the components ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the sponge cake and prepare the filling in advance. Assemble and chill before serving for best texture.

→ Is there a dairy-free option for the filling?

You may use dairy-free cream cheese and coconut cream whipped to peaks for a similar creamy texture.