If you’re craving a dessert that’s as delightful to look at as it is to eat, let me introduce you to How to Make Strawberry Shortcake Sushi – A Fun Dessert Roll. Imagine soft sheets of pound cake wrapped around fresh whipped cream and juicy strawberries, then sliced into adorable bite-sized rolls that look remarkably like sushi—except, of course, everything is sweet! It’s the perfect playful dessert for parties, kids’ kitchen adventures, or whenever you want to serve something unique that will have everyone smiling and asking for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines with just a handful of ingredients, and each one brings something special. You’ll find that the cake supplies the soft, “rice” texture everyone loves, while the strawberries pop with color and flavor, and the whipped cream ties everything together for that luscious, creamy finish.
- Pound cake (store-bought or homemade): Dense enough to roll but wonderfully tender, this acts as our dessert sushi “rice.”
- Whipped cream or Cool Whip: The dreamy, creamy “glue” that binds the filling and brings a light sweetness.
- Fresh strawberries, finely diced: Their natural juiciness and bright color make every bite refreshing and fun.
- Optional: Strawberry jam or puree: A quick smear ups the berry flavor and helps the filling stick in place.
- Optional toppings: Graham cracker crumbs, sprinkles, or shredded coconut: Roll your finished dessert in these for extra crunch, color, and plenty of party wow—kids especially love this step!
How to Make How to Make Strawberry Shortcake Sushi – A Fun Dessert Roll
Step 1: Slice Your Pound Cake
Start by turning your pound cake into the perfect sheet: carefully slice it lengthwise into thin, flat strips, about 1/4-inch thick. If you have a cake leveler, now’s your time to shine, but a serrated bread knife will do the trick as well. Thin slices are the secret to a tight, easy roll, so take your time and try to keep the slices even.
Step 2: Flatten the Slices
Lay each strip down on a clean countertop or a large piece of parchment paper. Using a rolling pin, gently flatten each sheet of cake—you’re not making it paper-thin, just smoothing it so it will roll without cracking. Don’t worry if a few edges crumble; the whipped cream will help hold it all together.
Step 3: Spread on the Whipped Cream
Generously, but not too thickly, spread a layer of whipped cream over the entire surface of each cake sheet. The goal is a smooth, gentle covering—enough to keep things moist and creamy, but not so much that it all oozes out when you roll it.
Step 4: Add the Strawberry Filling
Spoon the diced strawberries along one long edge of the cake sheet, just like you’d fill a sushi roll. For an extra flavor boost, you can drizzle a bit of strawberry jam or puree over the berries before you begin rolling. This not only amps up the strawberry sweetness but also helps the filling stick together.
Step 5: Roll It Up!
With a steady hand, start at the strawberry edge and gently roll the cake up into a tight spiral, just like making a classic sushi roll. Go slowly—if a little filling spills out, that’s part of the fun! As you finish, place the seam side down so it stays closed.
Step 6: Add Toppings for Texture and Color
Here comes the most playful step: roll your shortcake sushi in graham cracker crumbs, sprinkles, or shredded coconut. This gives each piece a little extra crunch and makes them look absolutely irresistible. Kids love choosing their own toppings!
Step 7: Chill and Slice
For the neatest slices, pop your rolls into the fridge for 15 to 30 minutes to help them firm up. Then, using a sharp knife (wipe between cuts for clean edges), slice into 1-inch pieces to create sushi-like rounds. Arrange on a platter and admire your handiwork!
How to Serve How to Make Strawberry Shortcake Sushi – A Fun Dessert Roll
Garnishes
Sprinkle a little powdered sugar over the top, or add a fresh mint leaf to each roll for bright color. Small bowls of strawberry sauce or melted chocolate make for wonderful dipping on the side, just like soy sauce in traditional sushi!
Side Dishes
This dessert roll pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a cold glass of milk. For a party, serve it alongside a fruit salad or a medley of other mini desserts for a vibrant, Instagram-worthy spread.
Creative Ways to Present
Get playful and use a bamboo sushi mat for plating, or serve your shortcake sushi on a board with toothpicks or (clean!) chopsticks. For a kids’ party, let everyone decorate their own sushi rolls with sprinkles or edible glitter—the more, the merrier!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with extras (though honestly, they disappear fast!), store the rolls in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll keep well for about two days, but are best enjoyed when the cake is still soft and the whipped cream is fluffy.
Freezing
Want to enjoy these later? Wrap the unsliced rolls tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil, and freeze for up to one month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before slicing and serving. Keep in mind, the texture of the whipped cream may loosen slightly after thawing, but they’ll still taste delicious.
Reheating
These are meant to be enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so no reheating is needed. If they’ve been chilled in the fridge or thawed from frozen, simply slice and let come to room temperature for 10-15 minutes to bring out their best flavor.
FAQs
Can I use different fruits in this dessert roll?
Absolutely! While strawberries are classic, you can swap in diced mango, kiwi, blueberries, or even bananas for a fresh, tropical twist. Just make sure whatever fruit you use is cut small enough to roll easily.
What’s the best way to make neat slices?
Chilling the rolled cake before slicing is key. Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between each cut for picture-perfect sushi rounds every time.
Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of store-bought?
Yes, homemade whipped cream is wonderful here. Beat heavy cream with a little sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form for the dreamiest, freshest filling.
Is there a gluten-free version?
Definitely! Simply choose a gluten-free pound cake or make your own gluten-free sponge at home. All the other ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Can I make How to Make Strawberry Shortcake Sushi – A Fun Dessert Roll ahead for a party?
This dessert is a party planner’s dream. Assemble and chill the rolls up to several hours ahead of time, then slice just before serving so they stay fresh and beautiful.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready for a dessert that surprises and delights, you have to try How to Make Strawberry Shortcake Sushi – A Fun Dessert Roll. It’s whimsical, eye-catching, and truly delicious—plus, it’s a breeze to make with kids or for your next get-together. Roll, slice, decorate, and watch everyone light up with excitement as you serve this creative sweet treat!
Print
How to Make Strawberry Shortcake Sushi – A Fun Dessert Roll Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Snack
- Method: Rolling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Strawberry Shortcake Sushi is a delightful dessert roll crafted with soft cake, luscious whipped cream, and fresh strawberries. This sweet and creamy treat is not only delicious but also visually appealing when served sushi-style.
Ingredients
Pound Cake:
- 1 pound cake, store-bought or homemade
Whipped Cream:
- 1 cup whipped cream or Cool Whip
Fresh Strawberries:
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, finely diced
Optional:
- Strawberry jam or puree for spreading
- Optional toppings: graham cracker crumbs, sprinkles, or shredded coconut
Instructions
- Slice Pound Cake: Slice pound cake lengthwise into flat, thin sheets (about 1/4” thick) using a serrated knife or cake leveler.
- Flatten Cake Sheets: On a clean surface or parchment, gently flatten each slice with a rolling pin.
- Add Whipped Cream: Spread a thin layer of whipped cream across the surface of each cake sheet.
- Fill with Strawberries: Add diced strawberries along one edge of each sheet. Optionally, drizzle jam or puree for extra flavor.
- Roll Cake: Roll up the cake sheet into a tight spiral, resembling sushi.
- Optional Coatings: Roll the outside in graham cracker crumbs, sprinkles, or coconut for added texture.
- Chill and Slice: Chill for 15–30 minutes for neater slices, then slice into 1″ rounds like sushi rolls.
- Serve: Plate and serve with toothpicks or chopsticks for a fun twist!
Notes
- Use angel food cake for a lighter, fluffier texture.
- Experiment with mango, kiwi, or bananas as alternative fruits.
- Enjoy with melted chocolate or strawberry sauce for dipping.
- Perfect for Mother’s Day brunch, birthday parties, or a creative kids’ kitchen activity!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 160 kcal
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
