Strawberry Shortcake Sushi: A Playful Dessert with a Classic Flavor Twist

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is visually impressive yet simple to prepare. It uses familiar ingredients, delivers a balanced sweetness, and can be customized easily. It is ideal for entertaining and works well as a make-ahead dessert.

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Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Vanilla Sponge Cake
Vanilla sponge cake forms the base of the sushi roll. Its soft, flexible texture makes it easy to roll without cracking.

Cream Cheese
Cream cheese creates a rich, slightly tangy filling that mimics the creaminess of classic shortcake.

Whipped Cream
Whipped cream lightens the filling and adds a smooth, airy texture.

Powdered Sugar
Powdered sugar sweetens the cream filling while keeping it smooth and lump-free.

Fresh Strawberries
Strawberries provide freshness, natural sweetness, and the signature shortcake flavor.

Strawberry Jam
Strawberry jam intensifies the fruit flavor and helps bind the filling.

Vanilla Extract
Vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor and adds warmth.

Plastic Wrap
Plastic wrap helps shape and tighten the roll during assembly.

Directions

Begin by trimming the edges of the sponge cake to create even sides. Gently press or roll the cake flat to ensure flexibility. Lay the cake on a sheet of plastic wrap.

In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, whipped cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and spreadable. Spread an even layer of the cream mixture over the cake, leaving a small border along one edge.

Arrange sliced strawberries in a line across the center of the cake. Spoon a thin layer of strawberry jam over the cream for added flavor.

Using the plastic wrap to guide you, roll the cake tightly into a log, applying gentle pressure to maintain shape. Wrap the roll securely and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.

Once chilled, remove the plastic wrap and slice the roll into evenly sized pieces resembling sushi rolls. Clean the knife between cuts for neat presentation.

Equipment needed

Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling

Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.

Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.

large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.

Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.

Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.

Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.

Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.

 3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields approximately 8 dessert pieces.
Preparation time is about 20 minutes.
Chilling time is 30 minutes.
Total time required is approximately 50 minutes.

Storage and Reheating

Store Strawberry Shortcake Sushi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheating is not recommended, as this dessert is best served chilled or at cool room temperature.

Variations and Customizations

This dessert is highly adaptable and allows for creative variations. For a lighter filling, substitute part of the cream cheese with additional whipped cream. I tested this version, and it resulted in a softer, mousse-like texture.

You can replace strawberries with other fruits such as raspberries, blueberries, or mango for a different flavor profile. Chocolate lovers may add a thin drizzle of melted chocolate inside the roll or on top for garnish.

For added visual appeal, dust the sliced rolls lightly with powdered sugar or garnish with finely chopped strawberries. If serving at a party, arrange the pieces on a platter with fruit sauce for dipping. These customizations allow you to tailor the dessert while maintaining its playful charm.

Nutrition and Dietary Info

Nutrient	Per Serving
Calories	230 kcal
Protein	4 g
Carbohydrates	28 g
Fat	11 g
Saturated Fat	6 g
Fiber	1 g
Sugar	18 g
Sodium	160 mg

Expert Tips & Customizations

Cake Flexibility
Use fresh sponge cake to prevent cracking during rolling.

Even Filling
Spread the cream evenly to ensure consistent texture in every slice.

Chilling Time
Do not skip chilling, as it helps the roll hold its shape.

Clean Slices
Wipe the knife between cuts for professional-looking pieces.

FAQs

Can I make Strawberry Shortcake Sushi ahead of time?

Yes, it can be made up to one day in advance and kept refrigerated.

Do I need special tools to roll the cake?

No, plastic wrap is sufficient for shaping and rolling.

Can I use store-bought cake?

Yes, store-bought sponge cake works very well.

Is this dessert overly sweet?

No, the balance of fruit and cream keeps it moderate in sweetness.

Can I freeze Strawberry Shortcake Sushi?

Freezing is not recommended, as it affects texture.

What occasions is this dessert best for?

It is ideal for parties, birthdays, and casual celebrations.

Conclusion

Strawberry Shortcake Sushi is a creative, approachable dessert that blends classic flavors with playful presentation. Easy to assemble and visually appealing, it is a reliable choice when you want a dessert that feels both familiar and fun.

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