Strawberry Shortcake Roll Cake

Name: Strawberry Shortcake Roll Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 4 large eggs; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon baking powder; 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Sweet Baking Essentials

I never knew a roll cake could taste so delightful until I whipped up this Strawberry Shortcake Roll Cake. It's the perfect balance of light sponge, sweet strawberries, and whipped cream. Each bite feels like a little celebration, and the best part? It looks as beautiful as it tastes! Whether it’s for a special occasion or just a treat, this cake never fails to impress. I love how easy it is to prepare, yet it feels so indulgent and festive, making it a favorite in our household.

Created by

Skylar Jennings

Last updated on 2026-02-27T16:57:35.836Z

When I first attempted a roll cake, I was a bit intimidated, but this Strawberry Shortcake Roll Cake changed my mind completely. I discovered that using fresh strawberries really enhances the flavor and adds a delightful juiciness to each slice. The key is to roll the cake while it’s warm, ensuring it holds its shape beautifully.

I particularly enjoyed the whipped cream element in this recipe. To achieve the ideal consistency, make sure to whip the cream until you see soft peaks before spreading it across the cake. This minor detail makes a world of difference in texture and taste!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Delightfully fruity and light with every bite
Spectacular presentation sure to impress guests
An easy dessert that combines classic flavors with a fun twist

Mastering the Roll Technique

The key to achieving a beautiful strawberry shortcake roll is mastering the rolling technique. When you roll the cake using the kitchen towel, it’s crucial to start from the shorter side. This helps create a tighter roll, which not only adds to the visual appeal but also ensures that the filling is evenly distributed. Keep the roll snug but not overly tight to avoid cracking; a gentle hand goes a long way!

Letting the cake cool completely while rolled helps set its shape, making it easier to fill and re-roll later. If you notice cracks forming while rolling, don’t worry too much; the whipped cream filling will help conceal any imperfections once the cake is assembled.

Ingredient Insights

Fresh strawberries are the star of this roll cake, and choosing the right berries is essential. Look for vibrant, firm strawberries that smell fragrant and sweet, as they will provide the best flavor profile. If fresh strawberries aren't available, you can substitute them with other berries like raspberries or blueberries, though you may need to adjust the sugar to account for their different sweetness levels.

Using heavy whipping cream for the filling ensures a rich and stable texture. If you're looking for a lower-calorie option, consider substituting half of the whipping cream with Greek yogurt. However, this may alter the flavor profile slightly, so be prepared for a tangier filling.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

This strawberry shortcake roll can be made a day in advance, making it a perfect dessert for gatherings. After rolling and refrigerating the cake, it can be wrapped tightly in plastic wrap to maintain freshness. Just remember to slice it right before serving to prevent the cake from getting too soggy. If stored properly in the fridge, it can last up to two days, but it’s best enjoyed fresh!

When it comes to serving, a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of chocolate ganache on top elevates the presentation. You can also serve it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a berry compote for an added touch. Pairing it with a light dessert wine or a refreshing mint tea can create an exquisite dining experience.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delicious Strawberry Shortcake Roll Cake:

For the Cake

4 large eggs
1 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon baking powder

For the Filling

2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
1 cup heavy whipping cream
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Make sure to use fresh strawberries for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a perfect Strawberry Shortcake Roll Cake:

Prepare the Cake Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar together until thick and pale. Add vanilla extract and mix well. In another bowl, sift together the flour, salt, and baking powder before gently folding this mixture into the egg mixture.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into a greased and lined jelly roll pan, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes until it's lightly golden. Once baked, remove it from the oven and place a clean kitchen towel on top, then flip the cake onto the towel.

Roll the Cake

While the cake is warm, roll it up with the towel starting from the shorter side. Allow it to cool completely while rolled.

Prepare the Filling

In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form. Gently fold in sliced strawberries to combine.

Assemble the Cake

Unroll the cooled cake and spread the whipped cream and strawberry filling evenly over it. Carefully re-roll the cake without the towel, then wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30 minutes before slicing.

Slice and serve chilled for a refreshing treat!

Pro Tips

Make sure your cream is cold for the best whipping results. You can also add a hint of lemon zest to the whipped cream for an extra zing!

Step-by-Step Troubleshooting

If your cake doesn't roll well or cracks excessively, check that it has not baked for too long. Overbaking can lead to a drier texture, making it brittle. Aim for a light golden color and springiness when you gently press down on the top of the cake. If cracks do appear during rolling, don’t discard the cake; cover them with whipped cream in the final assembly.

Sometimes, the filling can be a bit runny if the whipped cream isn’t beaten to stiff peaks. Ensure you whip the cream until it holds its shape, which typically takes about 3-4 minutes on medium-high speed. To thicken the filling further, you can add an extra tablespoon of powdered sugar to stabilize it.

Creative Variations

For a twist on the classic strawberry flavor, consider adding a layer of lemon curd beneath the whipped cream filling. This will brighten the taste of the cake and add a delightful tang. Alternatively, for chocolate lovers, try incorporating cocoa powder into half of the cake batter for a chocolate version of this roll.

You can also personalize the cake by placing a thin layer of jam or fruit puree on the cake before adding the whipped cream. This not only enhances the flavor but also provides an attractive visual effect when sliced. Experiment with seasonal fruits to match the occasion; peaches or blueberries are great alternatives to strawberries.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but make sure to thaw and drain them well before use.

→ How long does the cake stay fresh?

The cake is best enjoyed within 2-3 days if stored in the refrigerator.

→ Can I make the sponge cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the sponge cake a day in advance and keep it wrapped in plastic wrap until you're ready to fill and roll it.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use a non-dairy whipping cream as a substitute for heavy cream if you prefer a dairy-free option.