Strawberry Cream Cheese Swiss Roll

This Strawberry Cream Cheese Swiss Roll is a dreamy, decadent dessert that blends the lightness of sponge cake with the indulgent richness of cream cheese and the brightness of fresh strawberries. Each bite is a harmony of flavors and textures: soft, airy cake wrapped around a creamy, tangy filling, with sweet strawberry jam swirled throughout. Topped with glossy strawberry glaze, fresh berries, and dollops of whipped cream, it’s a picture-perfect treat that’s just as delightful to serve as it is to eat.

Whether you’re baking for a spring brunch, a special birthday, a festive holiday table, or simply to treat your family on the weekend, this roll cake is guaranteed to impress. It looks like it came from a patisserie, but don’t be fooled—this recipe is surprisingly easy with a little care and the right technique. The combination of the fluffy sponge, velvety cream cheese filling, and fresh strawberries creates a balanced, not-too-sweet dessert that everyone will adore. It's also a wonderful way to use fresh, seasonal strawberries and bring a burst of color and flavor to any dessert spread.

Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Cream Cheese Swiss Roll

• Elegant and show-stopping: The roll looks like a fancy bakery creation with minimal effort.
• Soft, tender sponge cake: Light, airy, and perfectly balanced for a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Sweet-tart creamy filling: Cream cheese and whipped cream provide richness without being overly sweet.
• Strawberry lovers’ dream: With jam, glaze, and fresh berries, it’s bursting with fruit flavor in every bite.
• Great for entertaining: Sliceable and easy to serve at birthdays, brunches, or showers.
• Make-ahead friendly: The roll can chill overnight, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
• Customizable: Swap in raspberries or blueberries, or add a citrus twist with lemon or orange zest.
• Kid- and crowd-approved: A nostalgic dessert that adults and children alike will enjoy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Sponge Cake:

• 4 large eggs
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ cup milk (preferably whole milk for richness)

For the Filling:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ⅓ cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup heavy cream, whipped to stiff peaks
• ½ cup strawberry jam (use seedless for a smoother finish or homemade for extra freshness)

For the Topping:

• ½ cup strawberry glaze or strawberry sauce
• 8 small whole strawberries, hulled and halved
• Extra whipped cream for piping and garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the Sponge Cake
   • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 10x15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
   • In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs, sugar, and vanilla with a hand mixer or stand mixer for 5–6 minutes, until thick and pale yellow. This aeration is key to the cake’s fluffiness.
   • Sift in the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture using a spatula or whisk, taking care not to deflate the batter.
   • Stir in the milk gently to loosen the batter slightly. Do not overmix, or the cake may become dense.
   • Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Tap the pan lightly to remove any air bubbles.
   • Bake for 10–12 minutes until the cake is lightly golden, puffed, and springs back when lightly pressed with a finger.
   • While still warm, invert the cake onto a clean kitchen towel dusted generously with powdered sugar. Carefully peel off the parchment paper.
   • Starting at the short end, gently roll the cake up with the towel inside. This step prevents cracks. Let cool completely on a wire rack.
2. Make the Filling
   • In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
   • In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream to stiff peaks using chilled beaters and a cold bowl for best volume.
   • Fold the whipped cream gently into the cream cheese mixture until fully combined. The result should be a smooth, fluffy filling.
3. Assemble the Roll
   • Carefully unroll the cooled cake. Don’t worry if there are a few surface cracks—they’ll be hidden.
   • Spread the cream cheese filling evenly across the entire surface, leaving a ½-inch border around the edges to prevent overflow.
   • Spoon the strawberry jam over the cream layer and gently swirl it in with a knife or offset spatula.
   • Reroll the cake carefully (without the towel this time) and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap.
   • Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight, for easier slicing and better flavor melding.
4. Decorate
   • Transfer the chilled Swiss roll to a serving platter.
   • Drizzle with strawberry glaze or a homemade strawberry sauce for a glossy, flavorful finish.
   • Arrange the halved strawberries decoratively on top, then pipe whipped cream rosettes or stars between them for an elegant touch.

Tips for Success

• Don’t overbake the sponge: It should be soft and pliable to roll easily.
• Roll the cake while warm: Rolling it while warm sets its memory and reduces cracks.
• Use room-temperature cream cheese: This ensures a lump-free, smooth filling.
• Chill before slicing: The cake is easier to cut cleanly when cold.
• Customize your flavors: Add orange or lemon zest to the cream for a bright twist, or experiment with different jams.
• Use fresh, ripe strawberries: The fresher the berries, the better the taste and appearance.

Storage

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Serve chilled for best texture.
• Freeze: Wrap the undecorated roll tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before topping and serving.
• Prep in parts: Make the filling and bake the cake a day ahead for less day-of work.

Final Thoughts

Strawberry Cream Cheese Swiss Roll is more than just a pretty dessert—it’s a flavor-packed treat that combines the best parts of cake, berries, and creamy filling. Its beautiful presentation and balanced flavor make it a go-to for gatherings, celebrations, or anytime you want to bring a bit of joy to your table. Whether you serve it at a party, brunch, or as a sweet surprise for your family, it’s guaranteed to be a hit. The luscious layers and light texture make each slice a celebration in itself. Even if you’re a beginner baker, this recipe is approachable, rewarding, and absolutely delicious. So go ahead—roll up some happiness, and enjoy every forkful of this delightful dessert!

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