Strawberry Shortcake Sushi Recipe

Dreamy Strawberry Shortcake Sushi Recipe: Sweet Fusion Delight

Sweet strawberry shortcake sushi rolls might sound like a wild culinary experiment, but trust me, they’re pure magic.

Crisp, buttery pastry meets juicy berries in a playful twist on traditional desserts.

Every bite promises a delightful surprise that breaks all the rules.

Delicate layers of cream and fruit dance together in these unexpected rolls.

Pastry chefs and home cooks alike will love how simple yet impressive these treats look.

Whipping up this creative dessert takes less than an hour and guarantees wide-eyed wonder from anyone who tastes it.

Why Strawberry Shortcake Sushi Is Worth Trying

  • Quick Creativity Twist: Transform a classic dessert into a playful sushi-style treat that surprises and delights guests with its unexpected presentation.
  • Beginner-Friendly Baking: Designed for novice bakers using simple box cake mix and basic ingredients, making it a stress-free dessert anyone can successfully create.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Dessert: Perfect for parties, potlucks, and family gatherings where people love interactive and visually appealing sweet dishes that spark conversation.
  • Minimal Prep Magic: Requires minimal kitchen skills and equipment, allowing even those with limited baking experience to craft an impressive-looking dessert in a short amount of time.

Ingredients Needed for Strawberry Shortcake Sushi

Cake Base:
  • Yellow Cake Mix: A convenient boxed mix for a quick and easy cake base.
  • Parchment Paper: A non-stick surface for baking the cake evenly.
Cream and Filling:
  • Heavy Cream: Rich and fluffy cream for a luxurious filling.
  • Powdered Sugar: Sweetens and stabilizes the whipped cream.
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds a warm, classic flavor to the cream.
Toppings and Garnish:
  • Fresh Strawberries: Bright, sweet fruit for a fresh finish.
  • White Chocolate: Smooth and creamy drizzle for decoration.
  • Freeze-Dried Strawberries: Crunchy, intense strawberry flavor for extra texture.
Optional Extras:
  • Kitchen Towel: Used for rolling the cake.
  • Powdered Sugar (for dusting): Helps prevent sticking when rolling the cake.

Instructions for Assembling Strawberry Shortcake Sushi

Step 1: Prepare Cake Base

Mix cake ingredients according to box instructions.

Line a 10×15 inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper and lightly grease.

Pour batter into pan and spread evenly across surface.

Step 2: Bake Cake Layer

Preheat oven according to cake mix directions.

Bake cake for 10-15 minutes until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Allow cake to cool for 5 minutes after removing from oven.

Step 3: Create Towel Rolling Setup

Generously dust a clean kitchen towel with powdered sugar.

Carefully flip cake onto sugared towel.

Gently remove parchment paper from cake surface.

Step 4: Roll Cake Layer

Starting from the short end, carefully roll cake inside towel.

Keep roll tight and consistent.

Let cake cool completely while remaining rolled in towel.

Step 5: Whip Cream Filling

  • Heavy cream
  • Powdered sugar
  • Vanilla extract

Combine ingredients and whip until stiff peaks form.

Mixture should be smooth and hold its shape.

Step 6: Assemble Cake Roll

Carefully unroll cooled cake.

Spread whipped cream filling evenly across entire cake surface.

Tightly re-roll cake, ensuring filling is distributed smoothly.

Step 7: Create Sushi Presentation

Slice cake roll into bite-sized pieces resembling sushi rolls.

Arrange pieces attractively on serving platter.

Step 8: Add Decorative Touches

  • Fresh strawberry slices
  • Melted white chocolate
  • Crushed freeze-dried strawberries

Top each cake roll slice with strawberry slice.

Drizzle with melted white chocolate.

Sprinkle with crushed freeze-dried strawberries for added texture.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy

Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to present.

Enjoy your delightful strawberry shortcake sushi dessert!

Helpful Tips for Strawberry Shortcake Sushi Success

  • Use a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar to prevent sticking and ensure a smooth, tight roll without cracking.
  • Chill your mixing bowl and whisk beforehand to help heavy cream whip faster and create more stable, fluffy peaks.
  • Sprinkle freeze-dried strawberry powder for an intense berry flavor and beautiful color accent without adding extra moisture.
  • Prepare the cake roll a day in advance and store in the refrigerator, allowing flavors to meld and making serving easier.

Storage and Reheating for Strawberry Shortcake Sushi

  • Store leftover strawberry shortcake sushi in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep chilled to maintain the cream's texture and cake's freshness.
  • Wrap each piece individually with plastic wrap to prevent drying out and absorbing other refrigerator odors.
  • Freeze for up to 2 weeks by placing pieces in a freezer-safe container with parchment paper between layers. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
  • Gently warm at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving to soften the cream and cake. Avoid microwaving to prevent soggy texture.

Pairing Suggestions for Strawberry Shortcake Sushi

  • Sweet Strawberry Sip: Pair this dessert sushi with a chilled strawberry sparkler cocktail made with prosecco, fresh strawberry puree, and a hint of mint for a refreshing and complementary drink experience.
  • Creamy Companion: Match the light, sweet shortcake sushi with a smooth vanilla bean ice cream to enhance the dessert's delicate texture and amplify the strawberry flavor profile.
  • Chocolate Contrast: Serve alongside a rich dark chocolate ganache or espresso to create a sophisticated flavor balance that highlights the dessert's sweetness and provides a luxurious counterpoint.
  • Fruity Finishing Touch: Complement the dish with a mixed berry compote or fresh berry coulis to intensify the strawberry notes and add a vibrant, tangy element to the plate.

Fun Styles and Flavor Ideas for Strawberry Shortcake Sushi

  • Gluten-Free Sushi Roll: Replace regular cake mix with a gluten-free alternative like almond or coconut flour mix, ensuring the same light texture and sweetness.
  • Vegan Strawberry Delight: Swap heavy cream with coconut whipped cream, use egg-free cake mix, and garnish with dairy-free white chocolate drizzle for a plant-based version.
  • Low-Sugar Option: Utilize sugar-free cake mix, replace powdered sugar with stevia or monk fruit sweetener, and use sugar-free white chocolate for a diabetic-friendly treat.
  • Chocolate Lover's Version: Incorporate cocoa powder into the cake mix, use chocolate whipped cream, and top with chocolate shavings instead of strawberries for a rich alternative.

FAQs

  • Can I make this recipe without a jelly roll pan?

Yes, you can use a similar-sized baking sheet or rectangular pan. Just ensure it has similar dimensions and is lined with parchment paper for easy cake removal.

  • How ripe should the strawberries be?

Choose bright red, firm strawberries without soft spots. They should be sweet and fragrant for the best flavor in your strawberry shortcake sushi.

  • Is it necessary to use cake mix, or can I make cake from scratch?

You can definitely use a homemade cake recipe if preferred. Just ensure the batter is thin enough to spread easily in the pan and bake to a light, spongy texture.

  • What if my cake cracks when rolling?

Don’t worry. Gently roll the cake while it’s still warm and use the powdered sugar towel to help prevent cracking. If small cracks occur, the whipped cream filling will help hide them.

Print
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Strawberry Shortcake Sushi Recipe

Strawberry Shortcake Sushi Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.6 from 8 reviews

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Delightful Strawberry Shortcake Sushi rolls sweet Japanese inspiration with classic American dessert charm. Crisp pastry wraps creamy filling, offering an unexpected culinary adventure that delights your taste buds with each elegant bite.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 box strawberry cake mix
  • 2 cups heavy whipping cream
  • Fresh strawberries, sliced

Cake Mix Additional Ingredients:

  • 3 eggs (as specified on cake mix box)
  • 1/3 cup vegetable oil (as specified on cake mix box)
  • 1 cup water (as specified on cake mix box)

Finishing and Decorative Ingredients:

  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for cake dusting)
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for whipped cream)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • White chocolate, melted (for drizzling)
  • Crushed freeze-dried strawberries (optional)

Instructions

  1. Craft a delicate jelly roll cake foundation by following the cake mix package guidelines, ensuring precise measurements and thorough mixing.
  2. Select a 10×15 inch jelly roll pan, meticulously line with parchment paper, and apply a light grease coating to prevent sticking.
  3. Gently pour the prepared cake batter into the pan, using a spatula to distribute evenly and create a smooth, uniform layer.
  4. Place the pan in a preheated oven and bake until the cake achieves a golden hue and a toothpick inserted emerges clean, typically 10-15 minutes.
  5. Remove from oven and allow the cake to rest for a brief 5-minute cooling period, maintaining its delicate structure.
  6. Prepare a clean kitchen towel by generously dusting with powdered sugar, creating a non-stick surface for cake manipulation.
  7. Carefully invert the warm cake onto the prepared towel, gently peeling away the parchment paper to reveal the tender sponge.
  8. Skillfully roll the cake from the short end, encasing it within the sugar-coated towel, which prevents sticking and helps maintain shape.
  9. Allow the rolled cake to cool completely, preserving its flexible texture and preventing cracking.
  10. Whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until luxurious, stiff peaks form, creating a cloud-like filling.
  11. Delicately unroll the cooled cake, spreading the whipped cream filling in a smooth, even layer from edge to edge.
  12. Tightly re-roll the cake, ensuring the filling is evenly distributed and the roll maintains a compact, elegant shape.
  13. Using a sharp knife, slice the cake roll into bite-sized pieces resembling sushi maki, wiping the blade between cuts for clean edges.
  14. Artfully arrange the slices on a serving platter, creating an visually appealing presentation.
  15. Garnish each piece with a vibrant fresh strawberry slice, adding a burst of color and natural sweetness.
  16. Drizzle melted white chocolate across the sushi pieces, creating an elegant, decorative pattern.
  17. Optional: Sprinkle crushed freeze-dried strawberries over the top for an extra layer of texture and intense berry flavor.
  18. Serve immediately for optimal freshness, or refrigerate until ready to delight guests with this whimsical dessert.

Notes

  • Swap cake mix with gluten-free alternative for celiac-friendly version.
  • Use dairy-free whipped cream substitute like coconut cream for vegan adaptation.
  • Ensure cake doesn’t overbake by checking consistently during baking to maintain soft, flexible texture for rolling.
  • Control moisture by patting strawberries dry before topping to prevent soggy sushi pieces.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Desserts, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Fusion

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 280
  • Sugar: 18 g
  • Sodium: 250 mg
  • Fat: 16 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 32 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 3 g
  • Cholesterol: 50 mg
Angelina Wiles

Angelina Wiles

Content Editor & Culinary Enthusiast

Expertise

Food Writing and Editing, Vegetarian and Vegan Cuisine, Baking and Pastry Arts, Sustainable Cooking Practices​

Education

Portland Community College
Certificate in Culinary Arts
Focus: Emphasis on sustainable cooking practices, vegetarian cuisine, and food writing.​

​Oregon Culinary Institute
Diploma in Baking and Pastry Arts
Focus: Specialized training in artisanal baking, pastry techniques, and dessert presentation.


Angelina’s love for cooking started with handwritten family recipes and weekend trips to farmers’ markets around Portland. She followed her passion with a Certificate in Culinary Arts from Portland Community College, then perfected her sweet side with a Diploma in Baking and Pastry Arts at Oregon Culinary Institute.
Angelina believes recipes should feel like a conversation, not a science project. She’s all about helping readers trust themselves in the kitchen with simple steps, fresh ideas, and easy twists on classic meals.
When she’s not editing recipes, she’s baking bread, sipping coffee, or getting inspired by the changing seasons.

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