Description
Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls combine the creamy richness of cheesecake with the sweet freshness of strawberries, all wrapped in soft, golden crescent roll dough. These delightful dessert rolls are topped with graham cracker crumbs and a dollop of whipped cream, making them perfect for a crowd-pleasing treat or a special occasion. Easy to prepare and baked to perfection, they offer a unique twist on classic strawberry shortcake flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheesecake Filling
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Fruit Layer
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
Dough and Topping
- 1 package (8 oz) crescent roll dough
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1/4 cup graham cracker crumbs
Whipped Cream
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it ready for baking the rolls.
- Prepare Cream Cheese Mixture: In a medium bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Add Powdered Sugar: Incorporate the powdered sugar into the cream cheese and continue mixing until fully combined and smooth.
- Flavor the Mixture: Stir in the vanilla extract and beat again until the cheesecake mixture is creamy and uniform.
- Sweeten Strawberries: Place the sliced strawberries in a separate bowl, sprinkle with granulated sugar, and toss gently to coat.
- Macerate Strawberries: Let the sugared strawberries sit for about 10 minutes to develop their juices and sweetness.
- Prepare Dough: Unroll the crescent roll dough onto a clean surface and press the perforated seams to create a smooth, single sheet.
- Spread Cheesecake Layer: Evenly spread the cream cheese mixture over the crescent dough, leaving a 1/2 inch border around the edges.
- Add Strawberries: Distribute the sugared strawberries evenly over the cheesecake layer.
- Roll the Dough: Starting from one of the longer edges, roll the dough tightly into a log shape to encase the filling.
- Slice Rolls: Cut the rolled dough into 8 equal-sized pieces carefully so they hold their shape.
- Arrange in Baking Dish: Grease a baking dish and place the rolls cut side up in the dish with some space between them.
- Brush with Butter: Lightly coat the tops of the rolls with melted butter using a brush for richness and browning.
- Add Graham Cracker Topping: Sprinkle the graham cracker crumbs evenly over the buttered roll tops for added texture and flavor.
- Bake Rolls: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the rolls are puffed up and golden brown.
- Prepare Whipped Cream: While baking, pour the heavy cream into a bowl and whip with an electric mixer until soft peaks form.
- Cool Rolls: Remove the rolls from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve: Top each warm roll with a generous dollop of freshly whipped cream and enjoy.
Notes
- You can substitute fresh strawberries with frozen ones; thaw and drain excess liquid before use.
- For a stronger vanilla flavor, use vanilla bean paste instead of extract.
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother filling.
- Use a sharp knife to cut the rolls to prevent squishing the dough and filling.
- These rolls are best served warm to enjoy the gooey cheesecake and juicy strawberries.
- Store leftover rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat gently before serving.
