Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Strawberry Shortcake Sushi Rolls aren’t just delicious—they’re an experience! Perfect for summer gatherings, kids’ parties, or when you simply want to add some whimsy to your dessert table. The combination of soft cake, sweet cream, and fresh strawberries creates a bite-sized treat that delivers all the comfort of traditional strawberry shortcake in a playful new form. Even better, they’re surprisingly easy to make, requiring no special equipment beyond what you likely already have in your kitchen.
Strawberry Shortcake Sushi Rolls: Easy Steps to Make This Sweet Treat
Ingredients
- 1 store-bought or homemade sponge cake sheet (about ½ inch thick)
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and diced
- 1 cup whipped cream (freshly whipped or from a container)
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ cup strawberry jam (optional)
- Powdered sugar for dusting
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
- Chocolate sauce for dipping (optional)
How to Make Strawberry Shortcake Sushi Rolls
Prepare the cake: If using homemade sponge cake, ensure it’s cooled completely. If using store-bought, remove any crusts and flatten slightly with a rolling pin to create a flexible sheet about ¼ inch thick
Mix the filling: In a bowl, gently fold together the whipped cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until well combined. If using strawberry jam, you can either fold it into the cream for a pink swirl or spread it directly on the cake.
Assemble the rolls: Spread a thin, even layer of the cream mixture over the cake sheet, leaving about half an inch border on all sides. Sprinkle the diced strawberries evenly across the cream.
Roll it up: Starting from one of the shorter sides, carefully roll the cake up like a sushi roll, using the plastic wrap to help guide it and applying gentle pressure to keep it tight. Once rolled, wrap the plastic wrap around the entire roll and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
Slice and serve: Remove from refrigerator, unwrap, and using a sharp knife dipped in hot water (and wiped between cuts), slice the roll into 1-inch thick pieces. Dust with powdered sugar, garnish with mint leaves if desired, and serve with chocolate dipping sauce on the side.
Serving Suggestions
These Sushi Roll Desserts are beautiful on their own, but you can elevate the presentation by:
- Arranging them on a rectangular plate, sushi-style, with a small dish of chocolate sauce as “soy sauce”
- Adding a dollop of whipped cream and a fresh strawberry slice on top of each roll
- Serving alongside other Illusion Desserts for a dessert “bento box”
- Pairing with green tea ice cream for an Asian-inspired dessert fusion
This dessert makes a perfect addition to Korean Food Party Ideas, where fusion and playful presentations are always appreciated.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerator: These rolls will keep in an airtight container for up to 2 days. The texture is best on the day they’re made, as the moisture from the strawberries will gradually soften the cake.
Freezer: Not recommended, as the texture of the whipped cream and cake will degrade upon thawing.
Serving after storage: If refrigerated, allow the rolls to sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Helpful Tips
Make ahead option: Prepare the roll and refrigerate whole for up to 24 hours before slicing for serving.
Prevent sticking: If your cake is sticking to the surface as you roll, dust the surface with a bit of powdered sugar first.
Flavor enhancement: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the whipped cream for a bright, citrusy note that complements the strawberries.
Presentation tip: For clean cuts, freeze the roll for about 15 minutes before slicing (not longer, or it will become too hard).
Recipe Variations
- Swap strawberries for mixed berries to create a Berry Medley Sushi Roll
- Add white chocolate chips to the filling for extra sweetness and texture
- Make it vegan by using plant-based whipped cream and a vegan sponge cake recipe
- Create a Chocolate Covered Strawberry Dessert version by adding a thin layer of melted chocolate between the cake and filling
FAQs
Can I use angel food cake instead of sponge cake?
Angel food cake tends to be more delicate and may tear when rolling. If using it, handle very gently and accept that the roll may not be as tight or neat as with sponge cake.
Can I prepare this ahead of time for a party?
Yes! You can prepare the entire roll up to 24 hours in advance and keep it wrapped in the refrigerator. Slice just before serving for the best presentation.
Are these suitable for a food truck menu?
Absolutely! These Strawberry Shortcake Sushi Rolls make excellent Easy Food Truck Recipes as they can be prepared in advance, are portable, and offer a unique item that stands out from typical food truck desserts.
How can I make this more colorful for a children’s party?
Try adding colorful sprinkles to the outside of the roll, using different colored fruit like blueberries or kiwi in the filling, or drizzling with colored white chocolate for a festive touch.
Conclusion
These Strawberry Shortcake Sushi Rolls are more than just a dessert—they’re a conversation starter and a delightful twist on two beloved classics. Whether you’re looking for Fun Things To Make For Dinner as a sweet finale or wanting to impress guests at your next gathering, these sweet sushi rolls deliver both on flavor and presentation. The simple ingredients and straightforward technique make this an accessible recipe for cooks of all skill levels.
Looking for more creative Rolled Food Ideas and unique desserts? Check out my Pinterest board for daily inspiration and more delicious recipes like this one! Follow me on Pinterest for a treasure trove of culinary creativity that will keep your meals exciting every day of the week.