Picture this: a warm, flaky pastry, oozing with a creamy, sweet strawberry filling, the kind that makes your eyes close in bliss with every bite. That’s what I’m sharing with you today – my family’s absolute favorite strawberry cheesecake roll ups. Seriously, these things disappear faster than I can make them!
It all started one chaotic Sunday morning. My kids were clamoring for something sweet, but I was fresh out of energy and ideas. I rummaged through the fridge and spotted a tube of crescent rolls, some cream cheese, and a container of strawberries that were begging to be used. A lightbulb went off! I thought, “Why not combine the ease of crescent rolls with the deliciousness of cheesecake and strawberries?”
The first batch wasn’t perfect – the filling leaked a bit, and they were a tad too browned. But the taste? Oh, the taste was phenomenal. Even my notoriously picky eater, my youngest son, devoured them. Over the years, I’ve tweaked and perfected the recipe, learning little tricks to prevent leaks and achieve that perfect golden-brown hue. Each batch I made taught me something new, a little lesson in baking that helped me create the perfect bite. It was a delicious journey, to say the least!
These strawberry cheesecake roll ups have become our go-to treat for brunch, potlucks, and even just a simple weeknight dessert. They’re incredibly easy to make, which is a lifesaver on busy days. And let me tell you, they are always a hit. I’ve brought them to countless gatherings, and I always get asked for the recipe. So, I knew I had to share them with you!
The best part? You probably have most of the ingredients already in your kitchen. This recipe is forgiving, too – feel free to adjust the sweetness or add a little extra strawberry flavor to suit your taste. I want to show you how to make these delightful treats and experience the joy they bring to my family.
Don’t be intimidated if you’re not a seasoned baker. This recipe is truly foolproof. Even if you’ve never made anything like this before, I promise you can do it. So, let’s get started, and soon you’ll be enjoying warm, delicious strawberry cheesecake roll ups with your loved ones.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up a batch of these irresistible strawberry cheesecake roll ups. I’ve included my personal notes and tips to help you along the way.
- 1 (8 ounce) package crescent roll dough: I usually go for the classic kind, but feel free to experiment with the buttery or even the reduced-fat versions. Store brands work just as well, so don’t feel like you need to break the bank. Make sure the dough is cold, it will be easier to work with.
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened: This is key! If the cream cheese is too cold, it will be lumpy and hard to mix. I usually set it out on the counter about 30 minutes before I start. For a richer flavor, try using Neufchatel cheese, but remember, it has a slightly different texture.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: This adds the perfect amount of sweetness to the cheesecake filling. If you prefer a less sweet option, you can reduce the sugar to 2 tablespoons.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: A good quality vanilla extract really elevates the flavor of these strawberry cheesecake roll ups. I splurge on the real stuff – it makes a noticeable difference. But imitation vanilla will also do the trick.
- 1 cup diced fresh strawberries: Fresh strawberries are the star of the show! Choose ripe, juicy berries for the best flavor. If strawberries are not in season, you can substitute frozen strawberries, but be sure to thaw and drain them well before using.
- 2 tablespoons melted butter: This adds a lovely richness and helps the strawberry cheesecake roll ups brown beautifully. You can use salted or unsalted butter, depending on your preference.
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar, for dusting (optional): This adds a touch of elegance and extra sweetness. It’s totally optional, but I think it makes them look extra special.
- Strawberry Jam: If you want to add a little extra strawberry flavor, include a small amount of your favorite strawberry jam. This will add to the flavor of these delicious strawberry cheesecake roll ups.
Shopping tip: I always keep a tube of crescent rolls in the fridge for quick desserts. They’re so versatile!
Storage hack: If you have any leftover cream cheese, store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will last for about a week.
Budget-friendly tip: Look for strawberries on sale or buy them in bulk when they’re in season and freeze them for later use. It’s a great way to enjoy these strawberry cheesecake roll ups year-round.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Alright, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of making these amazing strawberry cheesecake roll ups. I promise, it’s easier than you think! Follow these steps, and you’ll be enjoying a warm, delicious treat in no time.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the strawberry cheesecake roll ups from sticking and make cleanup a breeze. Trust me, you’ll thank me later!
- In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Make sure there are no lumps! If your cream cheese is still a little cold, you can microwave it for a few seconds.
- Gently fold in the diced fresh strawberries into the cream cheese mixture. Be careful not to overmix, or the strawberries will become mushy. I like to leave some chunks for a burst of flavor in every bite of the strawberry cheesecake roll ups.
- Unroll the crescent roll dough on a clean surface. Separate the dough into the pre-cut triangles. This is where the magic happens!
- Spoon a generous tablespoon of the strawberry cheesecake filling onto the wide end of each triangle. Don’t overfill them, or the filling will leak out while baking. I learned this the hard way!
- Roll up each triangle from the wide end to the point. Place the strawberry cheesecake roll ups point-side down on the prepared baking sheet. This helps to keep them from unrolling during baking.
- Brush the tops of the roll ups with the melted butter. This gives them a beautiful golden-brown color and adds a delicious richness. My kids love to help with this step!
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the roll ups are golden brown and the filling is bubbly. Keep a close eye on them, as baking times may vary depending on your oven. You want them to be perfectly browned, but not burnt!
- Remove the strawberry cheesecake roll ups from the oven and let them cool slightly on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack. This prevents them from sticking and helps them to cool evenly.
- Once cooled, dust the roll ups with powdered sugar, if desired. This is optional, but it adds a touch of elegance. My family loves the extra sweetness.
Family reaction: My kids are always hovering around the kitchen when I make these strawberry cheesecake roll ups. They can’t wait to devour them!
Meal prep insight: You can prepare the strawberry cheesecake filling ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. This makes the assembly process even quicker.
Leftover advice: If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’re best enjoyed within a day or two.
Serving Ideas
Now that you’ve baked these scrumptious strawberry cheesecake roll ups, let’s talk about how to serve them and make the most of this delicious treat. Here are some of my favorite serving ideas:
- Brunch superstar: These roll ups are the perfect addition to any brunch spread. Serve them alongside scrambled eggs, bacon, and a fruit salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
- Dessert delight: These strawberry cheesecake roll ups make a delightful dessert after any meal. They’re light, sweet, and the perfect way to end the day.
- Potluck favorite: Bring these to your next potluck or gathering, and you’re guaranteed to be a hit. They’re easy to transport and always a crowd-pleaser.
- Snack attack: These roll ups are also great as a mid-afternoon snack. They’re a delicious and satisfying way to curb your sweet cravings.
- Ice cream companion: Serve these warm strawberry cheesecake roll ups with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra decadent treat. The warm pastry and cold ice cream are a match made in heaven!
- Coffee or tea pairing: Enjoy these roll ups with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy and comforting treat. They’re the perfect way to start your day or unwind in the evening.
Leftover transformations: If you have any leftover roll ups, try crumbling them over yogurt or oatmeal for a delicious and unexpected twist.
Occasions: I love making these for special occasions like birthdays, holidays, or even just a simple family get-together. They always bring a smile to everyone’s face. These strawberry cheesecake roll ups are perfect for any event.
Portion sizes: I usually serve two roll ups per person, but honestly, most people end up going back for seconds!
Family feedback: My family raves about these strawberry cheesecake roll ups. They love the combination of the flaky pastry, creamy filling, and sweet strawberries. It’s a dessert that truly brings us all together.
FAQs
I’ve gotten a lot of questions about these strawberry cheesecake roll ups over the years, so I thought I’d share some of the most frequently asked questions (and my answers, of course!).
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain off any excess liquid before using. Otherwise, your filling might be too watery. I learned that lesson the hard way – soggy roll ups are no fun!
Can I make these ahead of time?
You can prepare the filling ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. However, I recommend baking the roll ups just before serving for the best flavor and texture. That way they are as warm and delightful as you expect these strawberry cheesecake roll ups to be.
Can I substitute the cream cheese with something else?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use Neufchatel cheese, which has a similar texture but less fat. You could also try using Greek yogurt, but be aware that it will have a slightly tangier flavor.
Can I add other fruits to the filling?
Absolutely! Blueberries, raspberries, or even diced peaches would be delicious in these strawberry cheesecake roll ups. Get creative and experiment with your favorite fruits!
My filling is leaking out while baking. What am I doing wrong?
You might be overfilling the roll ups. Try using a smaller amount of filling and make sure to seal the edges tightly. Also, placing them point-side down on the baking sheet helps to prevent leaks.
Can I make these gluten-free?
I haven’t tried it myself, but you could experiment with using gluten-free crescent roll dough. Just be aware that the texture might be slightly different. You may also have to adjust the cooking time when using gluten-free dough for these strawberry cheesecake roll ups.
Can I freeze these?
I don’t recommend freezing the baked roll ups, as the texture of the filling can change upon thawing. They are best enjoyed fresh.
What if I don’t have parchment paper?
You can grease the baking sheet well with butter or cooking spray. However, parchment paper really does make cleanup much easier. Plus the non-stick properties help when baking these strawberry cheesecake roll ups.
Can I make these vegan?
Yes! To make these roll ups vegan, use vegan crescent roll dough, vegan cream cheese, and vegan butter. You can find these at most health food stores or some larger supermarkets. It will still be as easy to enjoy the incredible flavors of these strawberry cheesecake roll ups.
Conclusion
These strawberry cheesecake roll ups are more than just a recipe to me. They’re a symbol of family, love, and those spontaneous moments of creativity in the kitchen. They represent the joy of sharing something delicious with the people you care about. I hope you’ll give them a try and create your own memories around them. I know they will bring a smile to your family.
Before you go, here are a few final tips to ensure your strawberry cheesecake roll ups turn out perfectly:
- Don’t overfill the roll ups: A little filling goes a long way!
- Use softened cream cheese: This will ensure a smooth and creamy filling.
- Keep a close eye on them while baking: Baking times may vary depending on your oven.
I’ve seen so many variations of this recipe pop up in my family. My sister likes to add a sprinkle of cinnamon to the filling, while my mom prefers to drizzle them with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk. Feel free to experiment and make them your own! I encourage you to search for new ways to enjoy these strawberry cheesecake roll ups.
I truly hope you enjoy making and eating these strawberry cheesecake roll ups as much as my family and I do. They’re a simple, yet incredibly satisfying treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
Now, I’d love to hear from you! What are your favorite easy dessert recipes? Do you have any variations of these strawberry cheesecake roll ups that you’d like to share? Leave a comment below – I’m always looking for new ideas! Happy baking, and remember, the best recipes are always made with love.
Strawberry Cheesecake Roll Ups
These Easy 10 Minute Strawberry Cheesecake Roll Ups are a quick and delicious dessert or snack. Creamy cheesecake filling and sweet strawberries wrapped in tortillas, they’re perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth in a hurry!
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup diced fresh strawberries
- Optional: Cinnamon sugar, for dusting
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Gently fold in the diced strawberries.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over each tortilla.
- Roll each tortilla tightly.
- Slice each rolled tortilla into 1-inch thick pieces.
- Optional: Sprinkle with cinnamon sugar before serving.
- Serve immediately or chill for later.
Notes
For an extra touch of flavor, lightly toast the roll-ups in a skillet with butter before serving.