Name: Creative & Cute Strawberry Shortcake Sushi Roll
Prep time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Fusion
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; 1 ½ cups (225 g) fresh strawberries, diced; 3 tablespoons (45 g) strawberry preserves or jam; Optional: white chocolate drizzle, extra whipped cream, mint leaves for garnish

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Shortly after wrapping up a delightful dinner with my family, I found myself craving something sweet yet playful. That’s when the idea of making a dessert that combines two of my favorites—strawberry shortcake and sushi—came to mind. The Creative & Cute Strawberry Shortcake Sushi Roll is the perfect solution when you want to wow guests or simply enjoy a fun cooking project at home. This dessert is not just visually appealing; it’s also a treat for the taste buds, offering a delightful mix of creamy, fruity, and slightly tangy flavors.

Why you’ll love this dish

What sets this dessert apart is its blend of simple yet satisfying components. It’s light, fresh, and embodies that classic strawberry shortcake taste, but with a fun twist! Perfect for summer parties, birthdays, or any celebration, it appeals to both kids and adults alike. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up seasonal strawberries while keeping preparations quick and stress-free—an ideal addition to your repertoire.

"This Strawberry Shortcake Sushi Roll is not only adorable but also scrumptious! Our kids gobbled it up, and I couldn’t believe how easy it was to make!" – Sarah M.

How this recipe comes together

Making the Creative & Cute Strawberry Shortcake Sushi Roll involves laying out a sponge cake, whipping up a smooth cream cheese mixture, and layering in fresh strawberries along with strawberry preserves. With a bit of rolling and chilling, you’ll transform these ingredients into a stunning sushi-like dessert that will impress anyone who lays eyes on it!

What you’ll need

Ingredients list:

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
1 ½ cups (225 g) fresh strawberries, diced
3 tablespoons (45 g) strawberry preserves or jam
Optional: white chocolate drizzle, extra whipped cream, mint leaves for garnish

Feel free to substitute the sponge cake with a gluten-free version or swap strawberries for any berry of your choice.

Step-by-step instructions

Begin by laying the cooled sponge cake flat on parchment paper or a rolling mat.
In a bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth.
Fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until well combined.
Spread the strawberry preserves evenly over the sponge cake, followed by a layer of the cream cheese mixture.
Sprinkle the diced strawberries over the cream mixture.
Starting from one short end, use the parchment paper to help you roll the cake tightly into a log shape.
Chill the rolled cake for 20–30 minutes to set.
After chilling, use a sharp knife to cut the roll into 1-inch pieces.
Arrange the sushi rolls on a platter and drizzle with white chocolate if desired. Garnish with extra whipped cream and mint leaves as desired.

Best ways to enjoy it

This delightful dessert is perfect on its own, but you can elevate the experience by serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. If you’re feeling adventurous, pair it with a light berry coulis for an extra burst of flavor. Presentation is key! Arrange the rolls on a vibrant platter, garnished with fresh mint leaves to provide a pop of color.

How to store

To keep leftovers fresh, store your strawberry shortcake sushi roll in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For the best quality, consume within three days. Although I don’t recommend freezing this dessert due to the cream cheese and whipped cream, if you do choose to freeze, slice the rolls first and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.

Helpful cooking tips

When spreading the cream cheese mixture, use an offset spatula for a smooth and even layer.
If the sponge cake is slightly stiff, you can lightly moisten it with a bit of milk to make it more pliable for rolling.
Chill your sushi roll well; this helps it maintain its shape when cutting.

Creative twists

Feeling experimental? Here are a few variations you might try:

Swap strawberries for raspberries or blueberries for a different flavor profile.
Add a dash of lemon or orange zest to the cream cheese mixture for a citrus kick.
Use mascarpone instead of cream cheese for a lighter feel, or even coconut cream for a dairy-free version.

Your questions answered

What is the prep time for this recipe?

The prep time is about 30 minutes, followed by a chilling time of 20-30 minutes.

Can I substitute ingredients in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can use different berries or even gluten-free alternatives for the sponge cake.

How long does this dessert last in the fridge?

This dessert is best enjoyed within three days of making it when stored in an airtight container in the fridge.

With this Creative & Cute Strawberry Shortcake Sushi Roll Dessert, you’re not just serving up a dish; you’re offering a memory-making experience. Whether it’s for a special occasion or just a fun treat, it’s sure to leave a smile on everyone’s face!