Name: Strawberry Shortcake Sushi Roll Dessert Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-489146H4M11S
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 sponge cake sheet (approx. 10×15 inches, homemade or store-bought); 8 ounces (225 g) cream cheese, softened; ½ cup (60 g) powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon (5 ml) vanilla extract; 1 cup (240 ml) whipped cream; 1 ½ cups (225 g) fresh strawberries, diced; 3 tablespoons (45 g) strawberry preserves or jam; White chocolate drizzle; Extra whipped cream; Mint leaves

Jump to Recipe

If you adore the classic combination of fresh strawberries and luscious cream but want a playful new twist, then this Strawberry Shortcake Sushi Roll Dessert is your new best friend in the kitchen. Imagine the fluffy sponge cake rolled tightly like sushi, generously filled with a dreamy cream cheese and whipped cream blend, punctuated with juicy diced strawberries and a sweet strawberry preserve layer. It is a dessert that looks as delightful as it tastes, perfect for impressing friends or indulging in a personal treat. This creative take on strawberry shortcake turns a beloved flavor into an eye-catching, bite-sized roll that’s incredibly fun to make and even more enjoyable to eat.

Strawberry Shortcake Sushi Roll Dessert Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients for this strawberry shortcake sushi roll dessert is wonderfully simple. Each component plays a vital role, from the light sponge cake providing the perfect base, to the smooth and sweetened cream cheese filling that balances the tartness of the strawberries. These fresh, colorful ingredients come together to create an irresistible harmony of textures and flavors.

Sponge cake sheet: A 10×15 inch sponge cake, either homemade or store-bought, offers a soft, airy foundation that rolls beautifully without cracking.
Cream cheese (8 ounces): Provides a rich, tangy creaminess that complements the sweetness in the filling perfectly.
Powdered sugar (½ cup): Adds the right touch of sweetness and ensures a smooth, lump-free cream cheese mixture.
Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Boosts the flavor profile with a warm, inviting note.
Whipped cream (1 cup): Lightens the cream cheese mixture, giving it a fluffy texture that mimics traditional shortcake cream.
Fresh strawberries (1 ½ cups, diced): Bring vibrant color, juicy freshness, and that unmistakable strawberry flavor to every bite.
Strawberry preserves or jam (3 tablespoons): Acts as the sweet, sticky glue that holds flavors together and adds an extra burst of strawberry goodness.
Optional white chocolate drizzle: A decorative touch that also adds a subtle sweetness and visual contrast.
Optional extra whipped cream and mint leaves for garnish: Enhance both appearance and taste, making the presentation truly special.

How to Make Strawberry Shortcake Sushi Roll Dessert

Step 1: Prepare the Cake

Start by laying your cooled sponge cake flat on a piece of parchment paper or a rolling mat. Ensuring the cake is completely cooled prevents any cracking or breakage while rolling. This step lays the foundation for your dessert, so handle the sponge cake gently to maintain its delicate texture.

Step 2: Make the Filling

Beat softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. This mixture should be luscious without any lumps. Then, gently fold in the whipped cream to introduce a light, airy texture reminiscent of classic shortcake cream. This filling is the magical middle layer that makes the dessert so irresistible.

Step 3: Assemble the Roll

Spread the strawberry preserves evenly across the surface of the sponge cake. This sticky layer not only locks in moisture but also infuses sweetness throughout. Next, spread the cream cheese mixture carefully on top of the preserves, followed by a sprinkle of diced fresh strawberries. The strawberries add bursts of fresh flavor and a pop of juicy color throughout the roll.

Step 4: Roll the Cake

Begin rolling the cake from one short end, using the parchment paper to help guide it tightly into a log shape. Rolling firmly but gently is key to avoid crushing the filling or cracking the cake. Once rolled, chill the dessert in the refrigerator for 20 to 30 minutes. This rest period allows the roll to set perfectly for clean slicing.

Step 5: Slice and Serve

Using a sharp knife, slice the chilled roll into 1-inch thick pieces. Arrange these cute sushi-like rolls on a platter, drizzle with optional white chocolate for an elegant and mouthwatering finish, and add any extra whipped cream or fresh mint leaves to elevate presentation and flavor.

How to Serve Strawberry Shortcake Sushi Roll Dessert

Garnishes

Garnishing this dessert can be as simple or as elaborate as you like. Fresh mint leaves brighten the dish and add a hint of herbal freshness, while a drizzle of white chocolate lends a delicate sweetness and a classy touch. A few dollops of whipped cream on the side can add indulgence and the perfect creamy contrast.

Side Dishes

Pair your strawberry shortcake sushi roll dessert with something light and complementary. A small scoop of vanilla ice cream or a few fresh berries on the side enhance the fruity flavors without overwhelming the palate. For a sparkling touch, a glass of chilled rosé or a sweet sparkling water with lemon works beautifully as an accompaniment.

Creative Ways to Present

This sushi roll dessert is already a conversation starter, but you can elevate it further by serving individual pieces on small plates with edible flowers or colorful berry coulis drizzled around. For parties, arrange the rolls on a wooden sushi board or slate platter for a stylish, modern vibe that will wow your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with any leftovers, wrap the roll tightly in plastic wrap to keep it fresh and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay delicious for up to 2 days, with the flavors melding together even more beautifully after resting overnight.

Freezing

While freezing is possible, it’s best to slice individual pieces and freeze them separated by parchment paper in an airtight container. This prevents them from sticking together and preserves the texture reasonably well. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving for the best results.

Reheating

This dessert is meant to be enjoyed chilled, so reheating is not recommended. However, letting it sit at room temperature for about 10–15 minutes before serving can soften the roll slightly and bring out more of the luscious cream flavors.

FAQs

Can I use cake other than sponge cake?

While sponge cake works best for the roll’s elasticity and softness, you can experiment with chiffon or genoise cakes. Just make sure the cake is thin and flexible enough to roll without cracking.

Is it necessary to chill the roll before slicing?

Yes, chilling firms up the roll and the filling, making clean slicing easier and preventing the filling from squishing out.

Can I substitute the cream cheese filling with something else?

Cream cheese adds a tangy richness, but you can substitute with mascarpone or sweetened ricotta for a different but equally delicious twist.

What if I don’t have strawberry preserves?

Fresh strawberry jam or even a quick homemade compote works perfectly in place of preserves. It just needs to be spreadable and fruity.

How do I keep the roll from cracking while rolling?

Make sure the sponge cake is fully cooled, and use parchment paper to help guide a tight yet gentle roll. Rolling too fast or with dry cake can cause cracks.

Final Thoughts

This Strawberry Shortcake Sushi Roll Dessert is such a fun, fresh way to enjoy classic flavors with a creative flair. It’s perfect for when you want to surprise friends or make a family dessert extra special without complicated techniques. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will quickly become a beloved favorite that brings smiles around the table every single time.

Strawberry Shortcake Sushi Roll Dessert Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 16 reviews

Author: Olivia
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

This Creative & Cute Strawberry Shortcake Sushi Roll is a delightful dessert that combines the lightness of sponge cake with the creamy richness of a cream cheese and whipped cream filling, fresh diced strawberries, and a swirl of strawberry preserves. Rolled into bite-sized sushi-style pieces, it’s perfect for parties, special occasions, or a fun family treat. Garnished with white chocolate drizzle and fresh mint, it offers a visually stunning and deliciously fresh twist on classic strawberry shortcake.

Instructions

Prepare the cake: Lay the cooled sponge cake flat on parchment paper or a rolling mat to ensure easy rolling later.
Make the filling: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Gently fold in the whipped cream to create a light, fluffy filling.
Assemble the roll: Evenly spread the strawberry preserves over the surface of the sponge cake. Then, spread the cream cheese mixture on top of the preserves. Sprinkle the diced fresh strawberries evenly over the filling layer.
Roll: Starting from one short end, carefully use the parchment paper to help roll the cake tightly into a log, securing all the filling inside. Chill the rolled cake in the refrigerator for 20 to 30 minutes to firm up.
Slice & serve: Using a sharp knife, cut the chilled roll into 1-inch pieces. Arrange the sushi-style cake slices on a platter. Drizzle with melted white chocolate if desired, and garnish with extra whipped cream and fresh mint leaves for an elegant presentation.

Notes

Chilling the roll before slicing helps maintain its shape and makes cutting cleaner.
Use a sharp serrated knife for easier slicing without squashing the cake.
Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days for optimal freshness.
For a gluten-free version, substitute the sponge cake with a gluten-free cake sheet.
Fresh strawberries are best for optimal flavor and texture; frozen may release too much moisture.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes (if using store-bought sponge cake) or 20 minutes (if homemade sponge cake)
Category: Dessert
Method: No bake/Assemble and chill
Cuisine: American