Strawberry Cream Roll Recipe

If you adore the bright, sweet flavors of fresh strawberries combined with the luscious softness of whipped cream, then you are going to fall head over heels for this Strawberry Cream Roll. This delightful dessert feels like a warm hug on a plate, where a light, airy sponge cake lovingly envelops a cloud of whipped cream and juicy strawberry slices. It’s the perfect balance of texture and taste, bringing a burst of freshness and just the right amount of sweetness in every bite. Whether you’re serving it up for a special occasion or simply treating yourself to something wonderful, the Strawberry Cream Roll is sure to become one of your favorite go-to desserts.

Ingredients You’ll Need

As you gather your ingredients, you’ll notice how simple but essential each one is to building the perfect Strawberry Cream Roll. Every component plays a unique role, ensuring the sponge is tender, the cream is airy, and the strawberries deliver that juicy pop of flavor and vibrant color.

• Eggs (3): Provide structure and give the sponge its fluffy, delicate texture.
• Sugar (1/2 cup): Sweetens the sponge cake just right without overpowering.
• Flour (1/2 cup): The base that holds everything together, lending lightness to the cake.
• Whipped cream (1 cup): Adds a smooth, creamy contrast to the spongy cake and bright strawberries.
• Sliced strawberries (1 cup): Bring fresh sweetness and a gorgeous splash of color to the roll.

How to Make Strawberry Cream Roll

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This sets the perfect stage for baking a sponge cake that’s light and just moist enough to roll up without any cracking. While the oven warms, line your baking tray with parchment paper for easy removal and cleanup.

Step 2: Whisk Eggs and Sugar

Next, grab a large bowl and whisk the eggs and sugar together until the mixture is fluffy and pale in color. This is a crucial step for creating an airy sponge; the effort you put into incorporating air here will give your cake that tender, spongy texture that makes rolling it such a joy.

Step 3: Fold in the Flour

Gently fold in the flour with a spatula. The key here is to combine everything without deflating the mixture. Light and careful folding ensures your batter stays airy and results in a tender cake that won’t crack when rolled.

Step 4: Bake the Sponge

Pour your batter evenly into the prepared tray and pop it into the oven. Bake until the sponge is set and lightly golden—usually about 10 to 12 minutes. This thin layer is what you’ll roll around the cream and strawberries, so don’t overbake! It should bounce back gently when pressed.

Step 5: Roll with Cream and Strawberries

Once baked, let the sponge cool just enough so it’s manageable. Spread the whipped cream evenly over the surface, then scatter the sliced strawberries on top. Carefully roll the sponge from one short edge to the other, tucking the cream and berries inside like a soft, fruity blanket. The rolling step transforms this simple cake into the beautiful Strawberry Cream Roll.

Step 6: Chill and Slice

Finally, wrap the roll in plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for at least an hour. Chilling helps the cream set and the flavors meld beautifully. Once firm, slice into generous pieces and get ready for that first heavenly bite.

How to Serve Strawberry Cream Roll

Garnishes

Your Strawberry Cream Roll is naturally stunning, but a few simple garnishes can elevate it even more. Consider dusting with powdered sugar for a gentle snowy effect or adding a few fresh mint leaves for a pop of green and a fresh aroma. A drizzle of strawberry coulis or a few extra berries on the side never hurts either.

Side Dishes

Pairing your Strawberry Cream Roll with the right side dishes can turn it into a memorable dessert experience. A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of lemon curd adds a creamy or tangy contrast that complements the sweetness. Fresh fruit salads or a light, citrusy sorbet also work wonderfully to keep the meal refreshing and balanced.

Creative Ways to Present

If you really want to impress, slice your Strawberry Cream Roll into individual portions and place each on a decorative dessert plate. Play with layering slices with extra whipped cream and berries in a trifle-style glass, or transform it into mini roll cakes by cutting smaller sections wrapped with ribbons for charming gifts or party treats. The versatility of this roll lets your creativity shine!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Strawberry Cream Roll is just as delightful the next day. Store it tightly covered in the refrigerator to keep the cream fresh and prevent the sponge from drying out. Properly stored, it will stay delicious for up to 2 days, making it an excellent make-ahead dessert.

Freezing

Freezing this dessert is not recommended because the whipped cream can lose its texture and become watery once thawed, which might detract from the delightful experience of the Strawberry Cream Roll. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.

Reheating

Since this dessert is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, reheating isn’t necessary. Let refrigerated slices sit out for about 10 minutes before serving if you want to take the chill off. This helps the cream soften slightly and the flavors come alive without losing their freshness.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries in the Strawberry Cream Roll?

While fresh strawberries are ideal for their firm texture and vibrant flavor, you can use frozen strawberries if you thaw and drain them thoroughly first. Be mindful that using frozen berries may add extra moisture, which could make the roll soggy.

What type of whipped cream should I use?

For the best results, use freshly whipped cream with a little sugar added during whipping to sweeten it gently. Store-bought whipped cream can work in a pinch, but freshly whipped cream offers the light, fluffy texture that complements the sponge perfectly.

How thin should I bake the sponge layer?

The sponge should be baked in a thin, even layer—about a quarter of an inch thick—so that it stays flexible enough to roll without cracking. This thinness is key to the beautiful spiral and texture of the Strawberry Cream Roll.

Can I add other fruits to the roll?

Absolutely! While the classic Strawberry Cream Roll focuses on strawberries, you can mix in other fresh fruits like raspberries, blueberries, or even kiwi for a fruity twist. Just be sure the fruits are not too watery to keep the cake from becoming soggy.

How long should I chill the roll before slicing?

Chilling the roll for at least one hour helps the whipped cream set firmly and makes slicing easier. If you’re pressed for time, chilling for 30 minutes can work, but longer is better for clean, beautiful slices.

Final Thoughts

Making a Strawberry Cream Roll is one of those joyful kitchen adventures that brings a smile with every bite. It’s simple, fresh, and utterly delicious—a dessert that feels special yet is easy to pull together. I hope you give this recipe a try and make many lovely memories sharing it with your friends and family. Trust me, once you do, the Strawberry Cream Roll will be a sweet staple you’ll want to return to again and again.