Imagine a dessert that combines the richness of cheesecake, the lightness of a sponge cake, and the fruity sweetness of fresh strawberries—all in a single, elegant roll. That’s exactly what a Strawberry Cheesecake Roll delivers. This delightful dessert has become increasingly popular in home kitchens and patisseries because it’s visually stunning, easy to slice, and perfect for special occasions.
Whether served at a birthday party, family gathering, or afternoon tea, the Strawberry Cheesecake Roll impresses with its creamy filling, soft sponge, and vibrant fruit swirl. It’s the ultimate treat for strawberry lovers and cheesecake enthusiasts alike.
In this guide, we’ll explore how to make a perfect Strawberry Cheesecake Roll, tips for achieving a light sponge and creamy filling, serving suggestions, and variations to suit different tastes.
What Is a Strawberry Cheesecake Roll?
A Strawberry Cheesecake Roll is a rolled sponge cake filled with a creamy cheesecake-flavored filling and layered with fresh strawberries or strawberry puree. Unlike traditional baked cheesecakes, this dessert is lighter, easier to serve, and visually striking when sliced.
Key Features
Soft sponge cake: Light, airy, and flexible enough to roll without cracking
Creamy cheesecake filling: Rich cream cheese combined with whipped cream or condensed milk
Fresh strawberries: Sliced or pureed for a natural, fruity flavor
Elegant presentation: Perfect spiral shape when sliced
This dessert offers a balance of flavors—sweet, tangy, and creamy—making it a crowd-pleaser in any household.
Ingredients for Strawberry Cheesecake Roll
Sponge Cake
4 large eggs
100g (½ cup) granulated sugar
100g (¾ cup) all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
Cheesecake Filling
250g (9 oz) cream cheese, softened
200ml (¾ cup) heavy cream (or double cream)
50g (¼ cup) powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Strawberry Layer
200g (1 cup) fresh strawberries, sliced or pureed
1–2 tablespoons sugar (optional, depending on strawberry sweetness)
Optional Toppings
Whipped cream
Fresh strawberry slices
Strawberry glaze or coulis
Crumbled graham crackers for a cheesecake touch
Step-by-Step Guide to Making a Strawberry Cheesecake Roll
Step 1: Prepare the Sponge Cake
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a 10×15-inch baking tray with parchment paper.
Separate the eggs into whites and yolks. Beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until stiff peaks form.
In another bowl, whisk the yolks with sugar and vanilla extract until creamy.
Gently fold the flour into the yolk mixture.
Carefully fold in the whipped egg whites to maintain an airy texture.
Pour the batter into the prepared tray and bake for 10–12 minutes or until lightly golden and springy to the touch.
Step 2: Roll the Sponge Cake
While the sponge is still warm, place a clean kitchen towel on a flat surface and dust it lightly with powdered sugar.
Invert the cake onto the towel and peel off the parchment paper.
Roll the cake gently along the short side using the towel and let it cool completely. This prevents cracking when you add the filling.
Step 3: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
Beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
Whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar until soft peaks form.
Fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture carefully to retain airiness.
Step 4: Assemble the Roll
Unroll the cooled sponge cake carefully.
Spread the cheesecake filling evenly across the cake.
Arrange sliced strawberries or drizzle strawberry puree over the filling.
Roll the cake back tightly, ensuring the spiral is even.
Wrap the roll in parchment paper and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to set.
Tips for a Perfect Strawberry Cheesecake Roll
Don’t overbake the sponge: A dry sponge cracks easily when rolled.
Roll while warm: Rolling the sponge immediately after baking prevents breaks.
Use chilled filling: A slightly firm filling helps the roll hold its shape.
Slice with a serrated knife: Prevents crushing the sponge and filling.
Layer strawberries evenly: Avoid lumps that can make rolling difficult.
Variations to Try
1. Mixed Berry Cheesecake Roll
Swap strawberries for a mixture of raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries for a colorful twist.
2. Chocolate Strawberry Roll
Add cocoa powder to the sponge cake for a chocolate base that pairs perfectly with strawberries and cream cheese.
3. Vegan Strawberry Cheesecake Roll
Use plant-based cream cheese, coconut cream, and a vegan sponge recipe to make a fully dairy-free dessert.
4. Mini Rolls
Make individual 6-inch rolls for party servings or lunchbox treats. They’re just as impressive but easier to handle.
Serving Suggestions
Dust the roll lightly with powdered sugar for a simple, elegant finish.
Top with whipped cream and fresh strawberries for a café-style presentation.
Drizzle with strawberry or chocolate sauce for extra indulgence.
Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
Storage and Shelf Life
Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Slice and wrap individual portions in plastic wrap to freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Best served chilled: Chilling helps the cheesecake filling firm up and the flavors meld.
Why Strawberry Cheesecake Roll Is a Favorite
The Strawberry Cheesecake Roll combines the best of three worlds:
Soft, fluffy sponge cake that melts in your mouth
Creamy, tangy cheesecake filling that’s not overly heavy
Fresh, juicy strawberries that add natural sweetness and color
Its beautiful spiral presentation and customizable flavors make it popular in homes, cafés, and bakeries across the US, UK, and Canada.
Whether for a special occasion or a weekend treat, this dessert feels indulgent yet approachable for home bakers.
Conclusion
A Strawberry Cheesecake Roll is a show-stopping dessert that’s easier to make than it looks. With its soft sponge, creamy cheesecake filling, and vibrant strawberries, it’s a perfect combination of flavors and textures.
By following simple steps—baking a light sponge, rolling carefully, and adding fresh strawberries—you can create a dessert that tastes as luxurious as it looks. This dessert is ideal for parties, special occasions, or simply treating yourself to a sweet indulgence at home.
Whether served plain, decorated with whipped cream, or drizzled with strawberry sauce, the Strawberry Cheesecake Roll is a timeless dessert that will delight everyone at the table. 🍓🍰✨