Jump to Recipe Print RecipeHave you ever faced the challenge of impressing guests with your culinary skills while juggling a busy schedule? Enter the magical world of the Strawberry Shortcake Sushi Roll—your no-bake solution to elevating any gathering! This creative dessert is not only a delightful twist on traditional strawberry shortcake but also a fantastic way to showcase fresh, seasonal strawberries. It requires minimal effort to prepare, making it perfect for any home chef looking to wow friends and family without the fuss. With its fluffy sponge cake layered with creamy filling and juicy strawberries, each bite feels indulgent yet light. Whether it’s a picnic or a special occasion, this charming dessert rolls into hearts and tummies alike. Ready to roll up this sweet sensation? Let’s dive into the recipe that promises smiles all around! Why is Strawberry Shortcake Sushi Roll a must-try? Creative Twist: This recipe transforms traditional strawberry shortcake into a fun sushi format, catching eyes and taste buds alike! No-Bake Simplicity: With no oven required, it’s a stress-free dessert that anyone can whip up, even on a busy day. Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Ideal for parties or brunches, these colorful rolls are bound to be the star of your dessert table! Consider pairing them with a refreshing drink like vanilla raspberry iced latte for an unforgettable experience. Versatile Variations: Feel free to experiment! Swap the strawberries for seasonal fruits or try different fillings, like whipped cream with a hint of lemon. Make-Ahead Convenience: Preparing this delightful dish in advance means you can focus on enjoying your event rather than stressing over the kitchen! Perfect for meal prep enthusiasts or busy hosts. Strawberry Shortcake Sushi Roll Ingredients For the Sponge Cake Sponge Cake – Provides the structure and base of the dessert; substitute with a store-bought sheet cake if short on time. For the Cream Filling Cream Cheese – Adds creaminess and richness; can be swapped with mascarpone cheese for a unique flavor. Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the cream cheese filling without the graininess of granulated sugar. Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor; optional for a variation in taste. Whipped Cream – Lightens the filling for a fluffy texture; flavored whipped cream can be used for added diversity. For Assembly Strawberry Preserves – Adds sweetness and a fruity punch; can substitute with raspberry or peach preserves for variety. Diced Strawberries – Freshness and juiciness; using thawed frozen strawberries is acceptable if well-drained. Optional Decorations White Chocolate – For drizzling; enhances sweetness and adds a decorative touch. Mint Leaves – For garnish; adds a fresh finish. Prepare these ingredients to create your delightful Strawberry Shortcake Sushi Roll, and let the fun begin! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Strawberry Shortcake Sushi Roll Step 1: Prepare the Sponge Cake Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a jelly roll pan and line it with parchment paper for easy removal. Pour the sponge cake batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake for about 12-15 minutes, until the cake springs back when gently pressed. Once done, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool completely on a wire rack. Step 2: Make the Cream Filling In a mixing bowl, beat together 8 ounces of softened cream cheese, 1 cup of powdered sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract using an electric mixer on medium speed. Continue mixing until the filling is smooth and creamy, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Now, gently fold in 1 cup of whipped cream with a spatula until the mixture is light and fluffy, creating the luscious cream filling for your Strawberry Shortcake Sushi Roll. Step 3: Assemble the Roll Once the sponge cake has cooled, lay it flat on a piece of parchment paper or rolling mat. Carefully spread a layer of strawberry preserves over the entire surface of the cake, followed by the cream filling, ensuring an even distribution. Sprinkle the diced strawberries evenly over the top of the cream filling, adding bursts of freshness to your Strawberry Shortcake Sushi Roll. Step 4: Roll It Up Starting from one end, gently lift the parchment paper or mat to begin rolling the cake tightly into a log shape. Take your time to ensure the roll is compact but not overly tight, avoiding any filling oozing out. Once fully rolled, place the log seam-side down and refrigerate it for 20-30 minutes to firm up, making slicing easier. Step 5: Slice and Serve After chilling, remove the roll from the refrigerator. Using a sharp knife, slice the log into 1-inch pieces, wiping the knife clean between cuts for neat edges. Arrange the Strawberry Shortcake Sushi Rolls on a serving platter. If desired, drizzle with melted white chocolate and garnish with mint leaves or extra whipped cream for an elegant presentation that will delight your guests. Strawberry Shortcake Sushi Roll Variations Feel free to get creative and make this delicious dessert your own with these fun variations! Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream instead of cream cheese for a rich, tropical twist. You’ll still enjoy that luscious filling without the dairy! Gluten-Free: Swap the sponge cake for a gluten-free version made from almond or coconut flour. It’s an excellent option for gluten-sensitive guests while staying delicious! Flavorful Whip: Try using strawberry or lemon-flavored whipped cream in your filling for an unforgettable taste. It adds a burst of flavor that complements the strawberries beautifully. Berry Medley: Include diced blueberries or raspberries along with the strawberries for a mixed berry delight. This adds not just vibrant colors but also a mix of flavors in every bite. Chocolate Drizzle: Instead of white chocolate, drizzle dark chocolate for a bittersweet touch that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the strawberries. Fruity Twist: Experiment with fillings by using peach or apricot preserves instead of strawberry. It opens up a whole new flavor profile for your sushi roll! Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle crushed nuts, such as pistachios or almonds, over the cream filling for a delightful crunch. This alternative not only enhances the texture but also adds a new depth of flavor. Spicy Kick: Don’t hesitate to add a pinch of cinnamon or a dash of chili powder to the cream filling for a surprising heat element. Your guests will be impressed by this unexpected twist! Embrace your creativity, and don’t forget to check out other delightful recipes like California Roll Cucumber or Strawberry Spinach Salad to complement your culinary adventures! Storage Tips for Strawberry Shortcake Sushi Roll Room Temperature: It’s best to avoid leaving your Strawberry Shortcake Sushi Roll out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to maintain its freshness. Fridge: Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to preserve their delightful taste and texture. Freezer: Freeze the rolls for up to 1 month by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and then placing them in a freezer-safe container. To enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight before serving. Reheating: These rolls are best served cold, but if you prefer, you can let them sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes after removing from the fridge for a softer bite. Expert Tips for the Best Strawberry Shortcake Sushi Roll Chill Thoroughly: Ensure you refrigerate the rolled cake long enough before slicing. This helps maintain shape and makes cutting easier without squishing the strawberry shortcake sushi roll. Spread Evenly: Apply the filling and strawberry preserves evenly across the sponge cake. Avoid overfilling; it can cause sliding and cracking while rolling. Cool Completely: Always let your sponge cake cool completely before spreading the filling. This prevents the cream from melting and ensures a fluffy texture. Use a Sharp Knife: For clean cuts, use a sharp knife to slice the rolls. Wipe the blade between cuts to keep the edges neat and avoid squishing the strawberry shortcake sushi roll. Experiment with Flavors: Don’t hesitate to try different fruit fillings or whipped cream flavors. Seasonal fruits are a wonderful way to customize your strawberry shortcake sushi roll! Make Ahead Options These Strawberry Shortcake Sushi Rolls are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the entire roll up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring a smooth and stress-free experience on the day of your event. Simply follow all assembly steps, then wrap the log tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it to maintain freshness. When it’s time to serve, slice the chilled roll into pieces and drizzle with melted white chocolate if desired. You can also store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, allowing you to enjoy these delightful treats without compromising on quality. Prepare ahead and treat your guests with minimal fuss! What to Serve with Strawberry Shortcake Sushi Roll? Indulge in a delightful culinary adventure that transforms your dessert experience into a full, harmonious meal. Iced Honeydew Mint Tea: This refreshing drink complements the sweetness, enhancing the fruity notes of the rolls while adding a cooling element. Vanilla Raspberry Iced Latte: A lovely pairing, this coffee drink balances the sweetness of the rolls with a rich, creamy flavor that’s sure to please. Fresh Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits adds vibrant color and natural sweetness, perfectly harmonizing with the strawberry shortcake flavors. Lightly Sweetened Whipped Cream: Serve alongside extra whipped cream for an indulgent touch, inviting guests to enhance each bite of the rolls with luxurious creaminess. Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries: These decadent treats elevate the dessert experience, combining the classic berry with rich chocolate for a delightful contrast. Mini Cheesecake Bites: Rich, bite-sized cheesecakes echo the creaminess in your sushi rolls, creating a luscious dessert spread guests will adore. This delightful assortment of pairings not only enhances your Strawberry Shortcake Sushi Roll but also creates a joyous dining atmosphere perfect for any occasion! Strawberry Shortcake Sushi Roll Recipe FAQs How do I select the right strawberries for this recipe? Absolutely! When choosing strawberries, look for those that are bright red, plump, and fragrant. Avoid any with dark spots or mushy areas, as these may be overripe. Fresh strawberries will provide the best flavor, but if they’re out of season, thawed frozen strawberries can also work well—just ensure they are well-drained before using. What is the best way to store leftover Strawberry Shortcake Sushi Rolls? To keep your delightful sushi rolls fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay delicious for up to 3 days. Just remember not to leave them out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to maintain their freshness. Can I freeze the Strawberry Shortcake Sushi Rolls? Yes, you can absolutely freeze these rolls! To do this, wrap the entire roll tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight before serving for the best texture. What can I do if my sponge cake is too crumbly while rolling? No worries at all! If you find that your sponge cake is too crumbly, it may not have enough moisture or could be overbaked. Ensure that you bake it just until it springs back when touched, and allow it to cool completely before rolling. If you still have trouble, try to lightly press the cake back together while rolling it, and use an even layer of filling to help keep it intact. Are there any dietary concerns I should consider when making this dish? Very much so! This recipe contains dairy from the cream cheese and whipped cream, which may not be suitable for those with a dairy allergy or lactose intolerance. For a dairy-free version, consider using plant-based cream cheese and whipped alternatives. Always double-check the ingredient labels for allergens! Is it okay to prepare the Strawberry Shortcake Sushi Roll a day in advance? Absolutely! In fact, making it a day ahead can enhance its flavor! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap after rolling and refrigerate. Just remember to slice it just before serving to maintain the freshness of the exposed filling. Enjoy your hassle-free prepping! Delightful Strawberry Shortcake Sushi Roll for Your Next Party Impress guests with this easy Strawberry Shortcake Sushi Roll, a creative no-bake dessert that showcases fresh strawberries. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 15 minutes minsChilling Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes mins Servings: 12 slicesCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 180 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Sponge Cake1 sheet Sponge Cake Substitute with a store-bought sheet cake if short on time.For the Cream Filling8 ounces Cream Cheese Can be swapped with mascarpone cheese.1 cup Powdered Sugar Sweetens the cream cheese filling without graininess.1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract Optional for variation in taste.1 cup Whipped Cream Flavored whipped cream can be used.For Assembly1 jar Strawberry Preserves Can substitute with raspberry or peach preserves.1 cup Diced Strawberries Thawed frozen strawberries acceptable if well-drained.Optional Decorations1 ounce White Chocolate For drizzling.Mint Leaves For garnish. Equipment Mixing bowlElectric MixerJelly Roll PanParchment PaperSpatulaSharp knife Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a jelly roll pan and line it with parchment paper. Pour the sponge cake batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake for about 12-15 minutes until the cake springs back when pressed. Allow to cool completely.In a mixing bowl, beat together 8 ounces of softened cream cheese, 1 cup of powdered sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract using an electric mixer on medium speed. Mix until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes. Gently fold in 1 cup of whipped cream until light and fluffy.Once the sponge cake has cooled, lay it flat on parchment paper. Spread a layer of strawberry preserves over the cake, followed by the cream filling, and sprinkle diced strawberries evenly on top.Starting from one end, lift the parchment paper to roll the cake tightly into a log shape. Once fully rolled, place seam-side down and refrigerate for 20-30 minutes to firm up.Remove the roll from the refrigerator and slice into 1-inch pieces using a sharp knife. Arrange on a serving platter, drizzle with melted white chocolate, and garnish with mint leaves or extra whipped cream if desired. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 180kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 2gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 50mgPotassium: 80mgFiber: 1gSugar: 15gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 0.5mg NotesFor best results, refrigerate the rolled cake long enough before slicing. Apply filling and preserves evenly to prevent cracking while rolling. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!