Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls

Creamy cheesecake-filled rolls bursting with fresh strawberries and a buttery graham cracker crust make these Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls a delightful treat for any occasion. They come together quickly and are perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as a special dessert.

I made these rolls for a summer picnic, and they disappeared faster than I expected. The combination of creamy filling with juicy strawberries is addictive and always brings smiles around the table.

Ingredients

• Eight small flour tortillas: soft and flexible to create the roll without cracking
• One cup fresh strawberries, chopped: fresh and ripe berries provide sweetness and juiciness
• One quarter cup granulated sugar: sweetens the strawberries as they macerate
• Eight ounces cream cheese, softened: the creamy base of the filling, room temperature for smooth blending
• Half cup powdered sugar: adds sweetness to the cream cheese without graininess
• One teaspoon vanilla extract: enhances the flavor with warm, aromatic notes
• Half cup graham cracker crumbs: brings that classic shortcake crunch and flavor
• Two tablespoons unsalted butter, melted: helps graham cracker crumbs stick and adds richness
• Notes: When choosing strawberries, look for firm berries with a bright red color and avoid any that appear mushy or have green tops. For cream cheese, full-fat versions offer a richer taste and better texture.

Instructions

Combine strawberries and sugar:

Combine chopped strawberries and granulated sugar in a small bowl

Macerate:

Let the juice develop for 10 to 15 minutes until the berries are nicely sweetened and juicy. This step brings out the best flavor and moisture in the fruit.

Make filling:

Beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer to get a creamy, lump-free texture. This filling will be the luscious center of the rolls, so smoothness is key.

Assemble:

Lay a flour tortilla flat and spread about two tablespoons of cream cheese filling in the center. Layer sugared strawberries evenly over the cream cheese. Be sure to use just enough filling to allow easy rolling without squeezing out the sides.

Roll:

Roll the tortilla tightly burrito-style. Take your time with this to keep the roll intact and neat for an appealing presentation.

Coat with crumbs:

Mix graham cracker crumbs and melted butter in a shallow dish. Gently roll each filled tortilla in this crumb mixture to coat evenly. The crumbs add a delightful crunchy contrast.

Serve:

Slice rolls in half if you like and top with whipped cream. Serving these chilled is best to hold everything together and give a refreshing feel on the palate. They can be garnished with extra strawberries or a drizzle of strawberry sauce if desired.

One of my favorite parts is how the contrast of textures comes together: smooth cream cheese, juicy strawberries, soft tortillas, and crumbly coating. This was always a hit at family get-togethers, and I recall one summer party where guests went back for seconds without hesitation.

Storage Tips

Keep any leftovers covered tightly in the refrigerator and consume within two days for best freshness. The rolls can become soggy if left too long. Chilling helps them firm up again before serving.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap regular flour tortillas for gluten-free versions to accommodate dietary needs. Greek yogurt mixed into the cream cheese adds extra tang and lightness if you want a slight twist. Try using honey instead of granulated sugar for a more natural sweetness in the strawberries.

Serving Suggestions

Serve chilled with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of strawberry sauce for an extra pop. Pair with a cup of tea or light coffee for an afternoon dessert that feels special but not heavy. These rolls also make an adorable addition to brunch buffets or baby shower dessert tables.

Chill the rolls before serving for the best texture and enjoy these sweet, shareable treats with friends and family.

Common Questions About Recipes

→ What type of tortillas work best for the rolls?

Small flour tortillas (taco size) are ideal as they provide a soft, flexible base that rolls easily without cracking.

→ How do I ensure the strawberries release enough juice?

Mix chopped strawberries with granulated sugar and let them rest for 10 to 15 minutes to develop a natural juice that enhances flavor and moistness.

→ Can I prepare the rolls ahead of time?

Yes, chilling the rolls for at least 30 minutes before serving improves texture and helps the flavors meld together.

→ What gives the rolls their crunchy coating?

The rolls are rolled in a mixture of graham cracker crumbs and melted butter, which provides a crumbly, buttery crust.

→ Are these rolls suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, all ingredients used are vegetarian-friendly, making these rolls a suitable treat for a variety of diets.