Strawberry Roll Cake with Cream Cheese Filling Recipe

If you are searching for a dessert that brightens any gathering with its delightful flavor and impressive appearance, the Strawberry Roll Cake with Cream Cheese Filling Recipe is your new best friend. This irresistible cake combines the light, fluffy texture of a strawberry-infused sponge with a luscious, smooth cream cheese filling, making each bite a perfect balance of sweet and tangy. It is straightforward to prepare, delivering a show-stopping treat that looks as good as it tastes. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying something fresh, this recipe will become a cherished favorite you can rely on for celebrations or simply to brighten up a day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Strawberry Roll Cake with Cream Cheese Filling Recipe serves a clear purpose, from creating the tender, flavorful cake to the rich and creamy filling that makes it so special. These essential components come together effortlessly to build layers of texture, taste, and color that will impress anyone lucky enough to try it.

• 15.25 ounces strawberry cake mix: The base for a moist, fruity sponge with vibrant strawberry flavor and pretty pink color.
• 6 large eggs: Provide structure and richness, helping the cake rise beautifully and hold its shape.
• ½ cup water: Keeps the batter light and smooth for an airy texture.
• ¼ cup canola oil: Adds moisture without overpowering the sweet strawberry notes.
• ¼ cup powdered sugar: A light dusting to prevent sticking and add a touch of sweetness.
• 8 ounces cream cheese (softened): The star of the filling, bringing tanginess and creamy smoothness.
• ½ cup unsalted butter (softened): Creates a rich, velvety cream cheese frosting that melts in your mouth.
• 3 ½ cups powdered sugar: Sweetens the filling perfectly while ensuring it’s fluffy and spreadable.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the filling’s flavor with warm, aromatic notes.
• 3 tablespoons heavy whipping cream: Lightens the filling, giving it the perfect silky consistency.

How to Make Strawberry Roll Cake with Cream Cheese Filling Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Spray a large cookie sheet with baking spray to ensure no sticking, and then carefully line it with parchment paper. This extra step prevents the delicate cake from adhering to the pan and helps you roll it up perfectly later.

Step 2: Beat the Eggs to Perfection

Using a stand mixer, beat the six large eggs on high speed until they become thick and light in color, about six minutes. This aeration is the secret to a sponge that is airy and light-bodied, a foundation you want for a roll cake.

Step 3: Combine the Batter Ingredients

Gently mix the strawberry cake mix, water, and canola oil with the beaten eggs just until everything is well combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the batter fluffy and tender, ensuring your cake will have the perfect crumb.

Step 4: Pour and Spread the Batter

Pour the batter into your prepared cookie sheet and spread it out evenly to fill every corner. An even layer is key to a uniform bake and a rollable cake that won’t crack.

Step 5: Bake Until Just Right

Bake the cake for 12 to 14 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the surface springs back gently after a light touch. Avoid overbaking to keep the cake soft and pliable for rolling.

Step 6: Prepare for Rolling

While the cake is still warm, lay a larger sheet of parchment paper on your counter and sprinkle it with powdered sugar to prevent sticking when you flip the cake.

Step 7: Flip and Remove the Baking Parchment

Carefully flip the cake out of the pan and onto the sugared parchment paper. Then, gently peel off the parchment paper that was on the bottom of the cake. This step sets you up perfectly for the rolling process.

Step 8: Roll the Cake to Cool

Using the bottom parchment paper as a guide, carefully roll the cake into a log shape. This gentle roll while warm helps the cake hold its shape without cracking when you unroll it to add the filling later.

Step 9: Cool Completely

Allow your rolled cake to cool on the counter for about one hour before moving it to the refrigerator. Cooling helps the cake set and prevents the filling from melting when applied.

Step 10: Make the Cream Cheese Filling

While the cake is cooling, whip together the softened cream cheese, unsalted butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and heavy whipping cream until smooth and fluffy. This luscious filling is what gives this roll cake its famous creamy tang and heavenly texture.

Step 11: Fill and Re-roll Your Cake

Unroll the cooled cake with care. Spread the cream cheese filling evenly across the surface, leaving a small border along the edges to prevent spillover. Then, gently re-roll the cake into its log shape, this time with the filling tucked inside.

Step 12: Chill and Serve

Wrap your rolled cake in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour before slicing. This chilling step helps the cake and filling set beautifully, making it easier to cut clean slices and enjoy that signature strawberry and cream cheese contrast.

How to Serve Strawberry Roll Cake with Cream Cheese Filling Recipe

Garnishes

To elevate your strawberry roll cake’s presentation, sprinkle the top lightly with fresh powdered sugar or decorate it with fresh sliced strawberries and a few mint leaves. A drizzle of melted white chocolate adds gorgeous visual appeal and a sweeter touch that complements the tangy filling beautifully.

Side Dishes

This roll cake pairs perfectly with lighter sides like a simple fruit salad, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a dollop of whipped cream. These accompaniments echo the freshness of the strawberry flavor without overshadowing the main star.

Creative Ways to Present

For a playful twist, slice the roll cake into smaller rounds to serve as elegant bite-sized treats at parties. Alternatively, serve slices layered with extra whipped cream and fresh berries in pretty dessert glasses to create a strawberry shortcake parfait that’s equally delightful.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap any leftover strawberry roll cake tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. It will keep fresh and moist for up to 3 days while maintaining that creamy filling’s texture and the cake’s softness.

Freezing

If you want to save your Strawberry Roll Cake with Cream Cheese Filling Recipe for longer, wrap it well in freezer-safe wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator for the best texture and flavor.

Reheating

This cake is best served cold or at room temperature and does not require reheating. If desired, allow slices to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes to soften slightly before serving for an ideal texture.

FAQs

Can I use fresh strawberries in this Strawberry Roll Cake with Cream Cheese Filling Recipe?

While the cake mix provides a consistent strawberry flavor and color, you can absolutely add fresh strawberries inside the filling or as a garnish to boost natural fruitiness and add a nice texture contrast.

How do I prevent the cake from cracking when rolling?

Rolling the cake while it is still warm but not hot is key. The parchment paper and powdered sugar also help prevent sticking, which reduces the chance of cracks forming as you roll gently.

Can I substitute cream cheese filling for whipped cream?

Yes, whipped cream makes a lighter option, but the cream cheese filling adds a wonderful richness and slight tang that complements the strawberry flavor perfectly, making this recipe truly special.

Is this recipe suitable for beginners?

Definitely! The steps are straightforward, and the ingredients are simple. Just take your time when rolling and enjoy the process—it’s a fun way to build your baking confidence.

What is the best way to slice the roll cake?

Use a sharp serrated knife and slice gently in a back-and-forth motion to get clean, neat slices without squashing the cake or filling. Chilling the cake before slicing also helps maintain shape.

Final Thoughts

This Strawberry Roll Cake with Cream Cheese Filling Recipe is truly a treasure for anyone who loves combining fresh fruit flavors with creamy, indulgent textures. It’s a recipe that feels both special and approachable, perfect for creating lasting memories around the table. I encourage you to give it a try soon—you might just find yourself making it again and again!

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