Name: Strawberry Shortcake Sushi Roll Dessert Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 45 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; 3 tablespoons (45 g) strawberry preserves or jam; 1 ½ cups (225 g) fresh strawberries, diced; White chocolate drizzle; Extra whipped cream; Mint leaves

Jump to Recipe

The Strawberry Shortcake Sushi Roll Dessert is an absolute showstopper that brings a playful twist to classic strawberry shortcake flavors. Imagine a soft, fluffy sponge cake wrapped around a luscious cream cheese and whipped cream filling, speckled with juicy fresh strawberries and a sweet layer of strawberry preserves. This delightful mashup not only looks incredibly charming but delivers every bite packed with vibrant color, creamy texture, and bright fruity sweetness. If you’re ready to impress your loved ones with a dessert that’s as fun to make as it is to eat, this Strawberry Shortcake Sushi Roll Dessert is the way to go!

Strawberry Shortcake Sushi Roll Dessert Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple, yet crucial to create that perfect balance of creaminess, fruitiness, and soft cake texture that makes this dessert so irresistible. Each component plays a key role in building that vibrant, fresh flavor and the stunning look.

Sponge cake sheet: Provides the light, airy base that’s easy to roll and showcases the strawberries beautifully.
Cream cheese (softened): Adds richness and a slight tang that complements the fruit perfectly.
Powdered sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese filling softly without graininess.
Vanilla extract: Delivers a warm, aromatic flavor that enhances the overall taste.
Whipped cream: Lightens up the filling with fluffiness and smooth texture.
Fresh strawberries (diced): Bring juiciness, vibrant color, and that unmistakable fresh strawberry flavor.
Strawberry preserves or jam: Adds a concentrated burst of sweetness and helps the roll stick together.
Optional white chocolate drizzle: Offers an elegant finishing touch with extra sweetness.
Optional mint leaves: Provide a fresh, herbal contrast and garnish pop of green for visual appeal.

How to Make Strawberry Shortcake Sushi Roll Dessert

Step 1: Prepare the Cake

Start with a fresh or store-bought sponge cake sheet, approximately 10×15 inches, cooled completely and lying flat on parchment paper or a silicone rolling mat. This creates the perfect canvas for your dessert roll, ensuring it will bend easily without cracking or crumbling.

Step 2: Make the Filling

In a mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until silky and smooth. Gently fold in the whipped cream to achieve a light, fluffy texture. This creamy mixture balances richness with airiness, the perfect companion to the sponge cake and fresh fruit.

Step 3: Assemble the Roll

Spread a thin, even layer of strawberry preserves over the surface of the sponge cake. This not only adds sweetness but also helps the filling stick. Next, spread the cream cheese mixture over the preserves, then sprinkle diced fresh strawberries evenly on top. The layering builds flavor depth and ensures each bite has a mixture of textures and tastes.

Step 4: Roll the Cake

Starting from one of the shorter edges, carefully roll the cake into a tight log using the parchment paper to help guide and prevent sticking. Aim for a smooth, compact roll without gaps. Once rolled, chill your dessert in the refrigerator for 20 to 30 minutes to set and make slicing easier.

Step 5: Slice and Serve

Use a sharp knife to cut the roll into 1-inch thick sushi-inspired slices. Arrange your beautiful Strawberry Shortcake Sushi Roll Dessert pieces on a serving platter, drizzle them with optional white chocolate if you like, and add a touch of whipped cream and fresh mint leaves for an extra pop of color and flavor.

How to Serve Strawberry Shortcake Sushi Roll Dessert

Garnishes

Fresh strawberries, a light drizzle of white chocolate, and a sprinkle of powdered sugar instantly elevate your presentation. Mint leaves add a refreshing contrast both visually and on the palate. Don’t be shy to make each piece look as joyful and vibrant as the flavor.

Side Dishes

This dessert shines on its own but pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a small bowl of fresh fruit salad. For a lovely afternoon tea, serve alongside a cup of fragrant green tea or light sparkling wine to complement the sweet and tangy profile.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving your Strawberry Shortcake Sushi Roll Dessert on a long wooden sushi board for a fun thematic touch. You can also place each sushi roll slice inside decorative cupcake wrappers for an easy grab-and-go dessert at parties. For a stunning centerpiece, arrange several rolls in a spiral pattern and top with edible flowers or colored sprinkles.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After preparing your Strawberry Shortcake Sushi Roll Dessert, store any leftovers covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days without sacrificing texture or flavor.

Freezing

Freezing is possible but not ideal for this dessert due to the whipped cream and fresh fruit. If necessary, wrap the roll tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, freezing for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before slicing and serving; note that texture may be slightly compromised.

Reheating

Since this is a chilled, cream-based dessert, it is best enjoyed cold and not reheated. If you want a softer cake texture, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving.

FAQs

Can I make the cake from scratch?

Absolutely! While store-bought sponge cake works great for convenience, making your own lets you control thickness and freshness, and adds a lovely homemade touch.

Can I use other fruits instead of strawberries?

Definitely. Blueberries, raspberries, or a mix of berries can be swapped in to create a different fruity twist while still enjoying the fun sushi roll shape.

Is it difficult to roll the cake without cracking?

Not at all, as long as your cake sheet is pliable and not dry. Rolling it with parchment paper’s help and chilling it before slicing helps maintain shape and avoid cracking.

How far ahead can I prepare this dessert?

You can assemble and roll your dessert up to 24 hours before serving, keeping it refrigerated. This makes it perfect for parties or special occasions when you want to save time.

Can I make it vegan or dairy-free?

With some ingredient swaps like dairy-free cream cheese, coconut whipped cream, and vegan sponge cake, you can adapt this recipe to fit a vegan or dairy-free diet while keeping the spirit of the dessert alive.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like the joy of biting into a Strawberry Shortcake Sushi Roll Dessert — it’s fun, festive, and utterly delicious all at once. Whether you’re whipping this up for a family gathering or surprise treat, it’s sure to bring smiles and compliments around the table. Give it a try and watch how this charming twist on a classic strawberry shortcake becomes an instant favorite!

Strawberry Shortcake Sushi Roll Dessert Recipe

★★★★★

5.2 from 19 reviews

Author: Naomi
Total Time: 45 minutes (including chilling time)
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Creative & Cute Strawberry Shortcake Sushi Roll Dessert is a fun and visually appealing twist on classic strawberry shortcake. Using a sponge cake sheet rolled with a luscious cream cheese and whipped cream filling, fresh diced strawberries, and strawberry preserves, this dessert offers a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors. Ideal for parties and gatherings, it is simple to assemble and makes an impressive presentation with optional white chocolate drizzle and fresh mint garnish.

Instructions

Prepare the cake: Lay the cooled sponge cake flat on parchment paper or a rolling mat to prepare it for spreading the fillings evenly.
Make the filling: In a bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Carefully fold in the whipped cream to maintain a light, fluffy texture.
Assemble the roll: Evenly spread the strawberry preserves over the surface of the sponge cake. Then, spread the cream cheese and whipped cream mixture over the preserves. Sprinkle the diced fresh strawberries evenly over the cream cheese layer.
Roll the cake: Starting at one short end, use the parchment paper to help roll the cake tightly into a log shape, ensuring the filling stays inside. Wrap it well and chill in the refrigerator for 20 to 30 minutes to set.
Slice and serve: Using a sharp knife, cut the chilled roll into 1-inch pieces. Arrange the sushi-like slices on a platter, drizzle with melted white chocolate, and garnish with extra whipped cream and fresh mint leaves, if desired.

Notes

Ensure the sponge cake is completely cooled before spreading fillings to prevent melting or sliding.
For easier rolling, slightly warm the strawberry preserves so they spread smoothly.
Use a serrated knife to achieve clean cuts without squashing the roll.
This dessert is best served the same day but can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours.
You can substitute cream cheese with mascarpone for a richer flavor.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes (if using store-bought sponge cake)
Category: Dessert
Method: No-bake assembly, rolling
Cuisine: American