Strawberry Cheesecake Roll
There’s something magical about a dessert that not only looks stunning but also feels like a hug in every bite. The Strawberry Cheesecake Roll is one of those treats that brings together the lightness of a fluffy sponge, the richness of a creamy cheesecake filling, and the brightness of fresh strawberries all rolled into one irresistible swirl. Imagine slicing into it and seeing that perfect spiral of cake, cream, and fruit it’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
Behind the Recipe
The idea of rolling cake might sound fancy, but it actually has a comforting, homemade charm. I remember the first time I made a cake roll in my grandmother’s kitchen. She called it “a ribbon of joy,” and that phrase has stuck with me ever since. The Strawberry Cheesecake Roll is a playful twist on the classic jelly roll, turning it into something extra indulgent yet surprisingly easy to make at home.
Recipe Origin or Trivia
Cake rolls, also known as Swiss rolls, trace their roots back to 19th-century Europe, where bakers experimented with light sponge cakes filled with jams or creams. Over time, different cultures added their own spins, from chocolate versions to fruit-filled variations. The cheesecake filling in this roll is more of a modern American innovation, combining the love for creamy cheesecakes with the timeless appeal of a rolled sponge.
Why You’ll Love Strawberry Cheesecake Roll
This dessert is a true crowd-pleaser for so many reasons, and here’s why you’re going to love it:
Versatile: Works beautifully for holidays, birthdays, or just a sweet weekend treat.
Budget-Friendly: Simple pantry staples come together without breaking the bank.
Quick and Easy: The sponge bakes in minutes, and the filling whips up in no time.
Customizable: Swap strawberries for raspberries, blueberries, or even peaches.
Crowd-Pleasing: Its spiral design always earns that “wow” at the table.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Bake and roll the sponge in advance, then fill when ready.
Great for Leftovers: Each slice stays moist and creamy, even the next day.
Print
Strawberry Cheesecake Roll
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 10 slices 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A light, fluffy sponge cake wrapped around a silky cheesecake filling and juicy fresh strawberries, finished with a snowy dusting of powdered sugar. Every slice reveals a gorgeous swirl that tastes as dreamy as it looks.
Ingredients
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon fine salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar, plus more for dusting
- 1/2 cup heavy cream, cold
- 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, diced
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 10×15 inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for lifting.
- Beat eggs and granulated sugar with an electric mixer on high until thick, pale, and tripled in volume, about 5 to 7 minutes. Mix in vanilla.
- Sift flour, baking powder, and salt together. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture just until no streaks remain.
- Spread batter evenly into the prepared pan. Bake 10 to 12 minutes, until the cake springs back lightly when touched.
- Immediately invert the hot cake onto a clean sheet of parchment. Peel off the used parchment. Using the clean parchment to help, roll the warm cake from a short side into a tight log. Cool completely seam side down.
- For the filling, beat softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. In a separate bowl, whip cold heavy cream to soft peaks, then fold into the cream cheese mixture until silky.
- Unroll the cooled cake gently. Spread the cheesecake filling evenly to the edges. Scatter the diced strawberries over the filling.
- Re-roll the cake tightly. Wrap and chill at least 1 hour for clean slices.
- Dust with powdered sugar, slice with a sharp serrated knife, and serve chilled.
Notes
- Roll the cake while it is still warm to prevent cracking.
- Do not overbake, a tender sponge rolls more easily.
- Chill before slicing for neat, bakery-style spirals.
- Use very fresh strawberries for the brightest flavor and color.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 20 g
- Sodium: 140 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 32 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg
Keywords: strawberry cheesecake roll, cake roll, swiss roll, dessert, summer dessert, cream cheese filling, strawberry dessert, easy baking, no alcohol, no bacon
Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results
Getting this dessert just right is easier than you think if you follow these insider tricks:
- Roll the sponge while warm using parchment paper to prevent cracks.
- Sift flour before mixing to keep the batter light and airy.
- Don’t overbake — a dry sponge is harder to roll without tearing.
- Use room-temperature cream cheese for a silky-smooth filling.
- Chill the roll before slicing for cleaner, picture-perfect spirals.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
A little preparation makes the process smooth and enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll want nearby:
Mixing Bowls : For whisking eggs, folding batter, and preparing filling.
Electric Mixer: Essential for beating eggs and whipping cream to the right consistency.
Jelly Roll Pan (10×15-inch): The perfect size for a thin sponge that rolls easily.
Parchment Pa per: Prevents sticking and helps with rolling.
Offset Spatula: For spreading batter and filling evenly.
Sharp Serrated Knife: Ensures neat slices when serving.
Ingredients in Strawberry Cheesecake Roll
Every component of this recipe has a purpose, creating that dreamy balance of flavors and textures:
- Eggs: 4 large, room temperature. Provide structure and help the sponge rise.
- Granulated Sugar: 3/4 cup. Adds sweetness and keeps the cake tender.
- All-Purpose Flour: 3/4 cup. Gives body and light texture to the sponge.
- Baking Powder: 1 teaspoon. Ensures a fluffy rise.
- Salt: 1/4 teaspoon. Balances sweetness and enhances flavors.
- Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon. Adds warm, aromatic notes.
- Cream Cheese: 8 ounces, softened. The heart of the cheesecake filling.
- Powdered Sugar: 1 cup. Sweetens and smooths the filling.
- Heavy Cream: 1/2 cup. Makes the filling light and airy.
- Fresh Strawberries: 1 1/2 cups, diced. Juicy bursts of freshness in every bite.
- Powdered Sugar for Dusting: Optional, for a pretty finishing touch.
Ingredient Substitutions
Sometimes you need to adapt, and that’s perfectly fine:
All-Purpose Flour: Use cake flour for an even lighter sponge.
Granulated S ugar: Substitute with coconut sugar for a caramel-like sweetness.
Heavy Cream: Swap with whipped coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
Strawberries: Replace with blueberries or raspberries for variety.
Ingredient Spotlight
Strawberries: Fresh strawberries are key — they bring juicy sweetness and a vibrant color that makes every slice look like a celebration.
Cream Cheese : The rich, tangy base of the filling that creates the signature cheesecake flavor.

Instructions for Making Strawberry Cheesecake Roll
Making this dessert is as enjoyable as eating it. Here’s how to bring it to life:
- Preheat Your Equipment: Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, beat eggs and sugar until pale and fluffy. Gently fold in flour, baking powder, salt, and vanilla until smooth.
- Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Assemble the Dish: Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the sponge springs back when touched. Immediately turn it out onto a clean parchment sheet and carefully roll it up while still warm. Let cool completely.
- Cook to Perfection: Once the cake is cooled, beat cream cheese and powdered sugar until creamy. Whip the heavy cream separately until soft peaks form, then fold into the cream cheese mixture.
- Finishing Touches: Unroll the sponge, spread the filling evenly, sprinkle diced strawberries over the top, and roll it back up tightly.
- Serve and Enjoy: Dust with powdered sugar, slice, and serve chilled.
This roll has a delightful balance — the sponge is light and springy, the filling is creamy and tangy, and the strawberries bring bursts of juicy sweetness. The contrast between the airy cake and rich cheesecake filling keeps each bite exciting, while the fresh fruit adds a refreshing finish.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
A little extra care goes a long way:
- Grease the parchment lightly to ensure an easy release.
- Roll gently but firmly so the spiral holds without cracking.
- Chill at least 1 hour before slicing for a neat presentation.
What to Avoid
Don’t worry, even mistakes can be fixed. Here’s what to watch out for: