Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls combine the classic flavors of strawberry shortcake with a creamy cheesecake filling, all wrapped up in a soft, pillowy roll.
Perfect for any occasion, these delightful treats are bursting with fresh strawberry flavor and a rich, velvety filling that’s impossible to resist. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or treat yourself, these rolls are the ultimate dessert experience!
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls (large and medium)
- Electric mixer (handheld or stand mixer)
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
- Rolling pin
- Small saucepan
Ingredients Overview
For the Dough
- Flour: Provides the structure for soft, fluffy rolls.
- Milk: Adds moisture and richness.
- Butter: Enhances flavor and ensures a tender texture.
- Yeast: Helps the dough rise beautifully.
- Sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness to the dough.
- Egg: Binds the ingredients and enriches the dough.
For the Cheesecake Filling
- Cream Cheese: The star of the filling, offering a tangy, creamy texture.
- Powdered Sugar: Sweetens the filling to perfection.
- Vanilla Extract: Enhances the flavor of the cheesecake filling.
For the Strawberry Filling
- Fresh Strawberries: Provide natural sweetness and vibrant flavor.
- Sugar: Draws out the juices of the strawberries for a luscious filling.
For the Topping
- Butter: Helps the topping adhere to the rolls.
- Crushed Shortbread Cookies: Adds a signature shortcake crunch.
- Powdered Sugar: Gives a decorative and sweet finishing touch.
Ingredients
For the Dough
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup warm milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Cheesecake Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/3 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Strawberry Filling
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, diced
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
For the Topping
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1 cup crushed shortbread cookies
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Dough
- In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk and let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, sugar, egg, and salt. Gradually add the yeast mixture and flour, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes, then place it in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
2. Make the Cheesecake Filling
- Beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
3. Prepare the Strawberry Filling
- In a small saucepan, cook the diced strawberries and sugar over medium heat until the mixture thickens slightly. Let it cool completely.
4. Assemble the Rolls
- Roll out the dough into a large rectangle on a floured surface, about 1/4-inch thick.
- Spread the cheesecake filling evenly over the dough, followed by the strawberry filling.
- Carefully roll the dough into a log and cut it into 12 equal pieces.
5. Bake the Rolls
- Place the rolls on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet, cover, and let them rise for 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
6. Add the Topping
- Brush the warm rolls with melted butter, then sprinkle crushed shortbread cookies on top. Dust with powdered sugar for a sweet finish.
7. Serve and Enjoy
- Serve the rolls warm for the best experience, or at room temperature for a deliciously soft treat!
Recipe Tips
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all filling ingredients are at room temperature for a smooth texture.
- Chill Before Cutting: Slightly chilling the rolled dough can make it easier to slice evenly.
- Customize the Filling: Add a splash of lemon juice to the strawberry filling for a zesty twist.
What to Serve With This Recipe
Pair these rolls with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert. For a morning treat, enjoy them with coffee or tea.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the rolls and refrigerate them overnight before baking. Let them come to room temperature before baking the next day.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
Can I freeze these rolls?
Absolutely! Freeze the baked rolls without the topping for up to 3 months. Reheat and add the topping before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Arrange the rolls on a platter, garnished with fresh strawberries for a stunning presentation. These rolls are perfect for brunches, parties, or a special dessert!
Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls
Ingredients
- For the Dough
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup warm milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- For the Cheesecake Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- 1/3 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- For the Strawberry Filling
- 2 cups fresh strawberries diced
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- For the Topping
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1 cup crushed shortbread cookies
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough
- In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk and let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, sugar, egg, and salt. Gradually add the yeast mixture and flour, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes, then place it in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling
- Beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
- Prepare the Strawberry Filling
- In a small saucepan, cook the diced strawberries and sugar over medium heat until the mixture thickens slightly. Let it cool completely.
- Assemble the Rolls
- Roll out the dough into a large rectangle on a floured surface, about 1/4-inch thick.
- Spread the cheesecake filling evenly over the dough, followed by the strawberry filling.
- Carefully roll the dough into a log and cut it into 12 equal pieces.
- Bake the Rolls
- Place the rolls on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet, cover, and let them rise for 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Add the Topping
- Brush the warm rolls with melted butter, then sprinkle crushed shortbread cookies on top. Dust with powdered sugar for a sweet finish.
- Serve and Enjoy
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