Name: Strawberry Shortcake Sushi Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 slices soft white bread (crusts removed); 4 ounces cream cheese (softened); 2 tablespoons powdered sugar; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup whipped cream or whipped topping; 1 cup fresh strawberries (diced); 1/4 cup strawberry jam or preserves; Additional powdered sugar for garnish (optional)

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If you’ve ever wished for a playful, bite-sized twist on a classic dessert, you’re in for a treat. Strawberry Shortcake Sushi brings together the nostalgic flavors of strawberry shortcake in a fun, no-bake sushi roll form that’s almost too adorable to eat — but far too delicious not to. Whether you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing party snack, a creative activity with kids, or a dreamy summer dessert, this recipe transforms familiar pantry staples into something truly magical. Each cheerful roll bursts with juicy strawberries, creamy filling, and just the right hint of vanilla, making Strawberry Shortcake Sushi a conversation starter you’ll want to share again and again.

Strawberry Shortcake Sushi Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

What I love most about Strawberry Shortcake Sushi is how it turns simple ingredients into a show-stopping treat. Every item on your list does double duty for taste, texture, and color — and there’s a good chance you already have most of them in your kitchen.

Soft white bread (6 slices, crusts removed): The perfect blank canvas; using bread makes rolling easy and gives a pillowy “shortcake” effect.
Cream cheese (4 ounces, softened): This gives the filling its rich, tangy creaminess and holds everything together.
Powdered sugar (2 tablespoons): Offers sweetness without graininess, making the filling irresistibly smooth.
Vanilla extract (1/2 teaspoon): Just a splash creates that classic shortcake aroma and depth of flavor.
Whipped cream or whipped topping (1/2 cup): Lightens the filling, making it fluffy and airy for a luscious bite.
Fresh strawberries (1 cup, diced): Juicy, tart-sweet, and bursting with color — nothing says summer like strawberries.
Strawberry jam or preserves (1/4 cup): Spreadable sweetness that helps the bread stay moist and amplifies the fruity punch.
Additional powdered sugar for garnish (optional): A sprinkle on top brings the “sushi” look together and adds a charming finishing touch.

How to Make Strawberry Shortcake Sushi

Step 1: Make the Dreamy Filling

Start by whisking together your softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until you have a super-smooth mixture. The secret is patience — blend until there are no lumps, then gently fold in the whipped cream. This creates a light, mousse-like texture that will melt perfectly alongside the berries inside your sushi rolls.

Step 2: Flatten the Bread “Rice”

Now let’s get your white bread sushi-ready! Use a rolling pin to flatten each bread slice as thin as possible without tearing it. Think of this as rolling out sushi rice — the smoother and thinner, the better. This guarantees your rolls will be easy to shape and bite-sized in the end.

Step 3: Layer with Jam, Cream, and Strawberries

Spread a thin but even layer of strawberry jam over every slice, covering right to the edges. Next, add a layer of your cream cheese mixture, followed by a sprinkle of diced strawberries. Don’t be shy — you want a bit of berry in every bite, and the cream layer will hold everything in place when you roll.

Step 4: Roll, Chill, and Slice

Ready to roll? Gently but firmly start at one end and roll each slice into a snug spiral, just like classic sushi. Wrap each finished roll in plastic wrap, then refrigerate for at least 20 minutes. This quick chill helps everything set so your Strawberry Shortcake Sushi slices up tidily.

Step 5: Slice and Serve

After chilling, unwrap each roll and slice it into 3 to 4 sushi-style rounds. Arrange all your mini “sushi” on a pretty platter and, if desired, dust them with a flurry of extra powdered sugar. Serve immediately for the best texture and that first magical bite.

How to Serve Strawberry Shortcake Sushi

Garnishes

A sprinkle of powdered sugar is the quickest path to elegance, but you can take it up a notch with a curl of whipped cream, extra diced berries, or even a drizzle of strawberry sauce. A few mint leaves tucked alongside the sushi make the colors pop and add a hint of freshness that plays off the berries perfectly.

Side Dishes

Keep the dessert theme playful and light! Serve Strawberry Shortcake Sushi alongside a bowl of mixed berries, a fruit sorbet, or a crisp lemonade. If you’re hosting a party, they pair beautifully with other bite-sized sweets, like mini lemon tarts or white chocolate-dipped pretzels.

Creative Ways to Present

Let your sushi shine by arranging the rolls on a bamboo sushi mat, or serve them in bento boxes for a whimsical touch. For kids’ parties, use colorful toothpicks or edible flowers, and don’t forget mini chopsticks for extra flair. You can even set up a “make your own” sushi bar with different jams and fruit fillings, so everyone can roll their own creations.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have any Strawberry Shortcake Sushi left, place the rolls in an airtight container layered with parchment to keep them from sticking. They’re best served the day they’re made, but will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 24 hours — just be aware the texture may soften a bit as the bread absorbs moisture from the filling.

Freezing

Because these rolls rely on soft bread and fresh cream, freezing isn’t recommended. The bread can turn soggy and the filling loses its airy texture after thawing. For best results, enjoy your sushi fresh or prepare all the components ahead of time and assemble just before serving.

Reheating

This recipe is proudly a no-bake, no-reheat treat! Strawberry Shortcake Sushi is meant to be enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, right after slicing for that dreamy, soft texture and burst of fresh strawberry flavor.

FAQs

Can I make Strawberry Shortcake Sushi with gluten-free bread?

Absolutely! Use your favorite soft, gluten-free sandwich bread and follow the same steps, making sure to roll it gently as gluten-free breads can be more delicate. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so it’s an easy swap.

What can I use instead of cream cheese?

If you’re out of cream cheese or want a lighter version, try mascarpone for an ultra-silky filling, or Greek yogurt with a touch of extra powdered sugar for an extra tangy twist.

Can I prepare Strawberry Shortcake Sushi ahead of time?

Yes, you can roll and chill the sushi up to four hours before serving, which makes it perfect for parties. Just wait to slice and garnish until right before you’re ready to serve so everything stays neat and fresh.

Can I use other fruits?

Definitely! While strawberries are classic, you can swap in diced mango, peaches, or blueberries for fun variations. Just avoid fruits with too much juice, as they might make the bread soggy.

How can I make this dessert richer?

For an extra-indulgent version, substitute the white bread with slices of brioche or pound cake. This makes the sushi rolls even more decadent, with a luxurious, buttery finish that’s party-ready.

Final Thoughts

I can’t wait for you to get rolling in the kitchen and surprise your nearest and dearest with this playful, no-bake delight. Strawberry Shortcake Sushi is the kind of dessert that brings out smiles and sparks conversation, no matter the occasion. Give it a try and watch these sweet sushi bites become a brand-new favorite in your family dessert lineup!

Strawberry Shortcake Sushi Recipe

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4.8 from 18 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 20 minutes (plus chilling time)
Yield: 18–24 pieces 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Strawberry Shortcake Sushi is a fun and creative twist on traditional sushi, combining the flavors of strawberry shortcake in a portable, bite-sized treat. Creamy, sweet, and bursting with fresh strawberries, these dessert sushi rolls are perfect for parties or a unique sweet snack.

Ingredients

Scale

Bread:

6 slices soft white bread (crusts removed)

Cream Cheese Mixture:

4 ounces cream cheese (softened)
2 tablespoons powdered sugar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup whipped cream or whipped topping

Additional Ingredients:

1 cup fresh strawberries (diced)
1/4 cup strawberry jam or preserves
Additional powdered sugar for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Cream Cheese Mixture: In a bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Fold in the whipped cream until fully combined and fluffy.
Prepare Bread: Using a rolling pin, flatten each slice of bread until thin. Spread a thin layer of strawberry jam over each slice, followed by a layer of the cream cheese mixture. Sprinkle diced strawberries evenly on top.
Roll: Starting from one end, gently roll each slice into a tight spiral. Wrap each roll in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes to set.
Slice and Serve: Once chilled, unwrap and slice each roll into 3–4 sushi-style pieces. Arrange on a platter and dust lightly with powdered sugar if desired. Serve immediately.