Homemade Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake

This dreamy Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake roll brings together a light sponge cake, rich cheesecake filling, and a buttery strawberry crumble topping. Every slice delivers creamy and fruity notes, perfect for celebrations or when you crave a show-stopping dessert.

I first made this when I wanted to surprise my family on Mother’s Day. Now every spring, it is on permanent repeat for birthdays and brunches.

Ingredients

• Large eggs: for light and airy sponge base Choose room temperature eggs for best volume
• Granulated sugar: to sweeten and help stabilize the cake
• Vanilla extract: brings a fragrant background note Always use pure extract for best results
• All-purpose flour: for structure Sift well for a fine crumb
• Baking powder: helps the cake rise evenly
• Salt: enhances all the flavors
• Whole milk: ensures moistness and richness in the sponge
• Finely chopped strawberries: tuck them in for pops of fresh fruit flavor Select berries that are deep red and just ripe
• Cream cheese: for the creamy filling Let it soften before whipping for smooth texture
• Powdered sugar: keeps the cheesecake filling light and sweet Sift to avoid lumps
• Heavy whipping cream: folded in for that classic cheesecake fluffiness Use very cold cream for best volume
• Golden Oreos: create a crisp sweet crumble Choose fresh cookies for a buttery flavor
• Strawberry gelatin powder: gives you that nostalgic bakery pink hue Any store brand powder will work
• Melted butter: binds the crumble and adds richness
• Fresh strawberries: for topping Choose vibrant unblemished berries for a pretty finish
• Whipped cream: to finish it off Go homemade if you have time
• Drizzle of strawberry sauce: for that final wow moment

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Sponge Cake:

Preheat your oven to 175 degrees Celsius Place parchment on a 9 by 13 inch baking sheet Start by beating your eggs and sugar on high until very fluffy and pale yellow The mixture should almost triple in volume Gently add the vanilla extract

Fold Dry Ingredients:

Sift flour baking powder and salt together Sprinkle over the egg mixture then gently fold in with a spatula You do not want to deflate the batter

Incorporate Milk and Strawberries:

Slowly pour in milk and fold until combined Scatter in chopped strawberries and fold a few more times for even distribution

Bake and Shape the Cake:

Evenly spread batter onto your lined tray Bake for ten to twelve minutes just until set and springy to touch Right away while warm carefully roll up the cake with parchment inside Use a damp clean kitchen towel to help roll This keeps the cake from cracking Allow to cool fully rolled up

Make the Cheesecake Filling:

In a bowl beat the cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla until very smooth In a separate cold bowl whip the heavy cream into stiff peaks Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully blended and fluffy

Assemble the Roll:

Carefully unroll your cooled sponge Remove parchment Spread on an even layer of the cheesecake filling leaving a little border to prevent overflow Carefully roll it up again Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and chill at least two hours for perfect slicing

Prepare Strawberry Shortcake Crumble:

Crush the golden Oreos into large crumbs Bend in strawberry gelatin powder for color and flavor Drizzle in melted butter until the mixture feels like damp sand

Finish and Decorate:

Unwrap the chilled cake Coat the outside with a thin layer of leftover cheesecake filling Press the strawberry crumble over every side Top with piped whipped cream sliced strawberries and a drizzle of strawberry sauce Slice gently with a serrated knife and enjoy

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My favorite part is always the strawberry crumble on top It reminds me of the ice cream truck bars we chased as kids There is always a little family tug of war over the end slices with extra topping

Storage tips

Leftovers can be wrapped well and stored in the fridge for up to three days Make sure to slice only what you plan to serve then return the rest to the cold The crumble stays best when added just before serving for maximum crunch If you want to freeze the roll do so before adding the fresh fruit or whipped cream toppings Once thawed add your garnish and it tastes just like fresh

Ingredient substitutions

You can swap strawberries for any fresh berry such as raspberries or blueberries Peaches also work beautifully for a summer twist If you have only regular Oreos use those for the crumble and add a touch more strawberry gelatin for color and tang You can substitute mascarpone for cream cheese for a slightly lighter flavor

Serving suggestions

This cake shines on a dessert tray at brunches baby showers or Mother’s Day Always slice with a sharp serrated knife and wipe between cuts for those perfect layers Try garnishing each plate with extra fruit and a sprig of mint For a party you can portion into thick finger sandwiches and serve on a platter with whipped cream on the side

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Cultural and historical context

Strawberry shortcake has deep roots as a summer dessert in America while Japanese bakeries popularized the light rolled chiffon cakes This cake is the happiest marriage of both A creamy cheesecake filling gives it richness while the bright strawberry flavor keeps it classic and crowd pleasing

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I keep the sponge cake from cracking?

Roll the cake gently while still warm using parchment paper and a damp towel to help maintain moisture and flexibility.

→ Can I substitute strawberries with other fruits?

Yes, you can use other berries like blueberries, raspberries, or even peaches for a delicious variation.

→ How long does the cake need to chill before serving?

It's best to chill the rolled cake for at least 2 hours to allow the filling to set and make slicing easier.

→ What’s the secret to a fluffy cheesecake filling?

Whip the heavy cream to stiff peaks before folding it gently into the cream cheese mixture for an airy texture.

→ Can this dessert be made ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the day before and store chilled. Add toppings just before serving for freshness.

→ Is this dessert suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, it’s vegetarian, as it contains no gelatin or animal-derived thickeners except for dairy products.