Imagine biting into a light, airy cake rolled with a luscious cream cheese filling and vibrant strawberry jam. These Strawberry Pinwheels are as beautiful as they are delicious—perfect for brunch, afternoon tea, or an elegant dessert table. Their soft texture, balanced sweetness, and eye-catching spiral make them irresistible. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is simple, satisfying, and sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love These Strawberry Pinwheels
- Visually Stunning – Their delicate swirls and fresh strawberry garnish make them a showstopper.
- Perfectly Balanced Flavors – The creaminess of the filling complements the tart sweetness of strawberries.
- Light and Fluffy Texture – A soft sponge cake that melts in your mouth.
- Make-Ahead Friendly – Chill them before slicing for the perfect pinwheel shape.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 4 large eggs
- ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- 2 tbsp milk
For the Filling:
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup (50g) powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Strawberry Layer:
- ½ cup (120g) strawberry jam
- ½ cup (80g) fresh strawberries, sliced thin
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat and Prepare the Cake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a jelly roll pan with parchment paper and lightly grease to prevent sticking.
2. Make the Cake Batter
In a bowl, beat eggs and sugar until pale and fluffy—this creates the cake’s airy texture. Mix in vanilla extract. In a separate bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, and salt, then gently fold into the wet ingredients. Stir in milk to keep the batter soft.
3. Bake to Perfection
Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until lightly golden and springy to the touch.
4. Roll the Cake
While still warm, roll the cake (with the parchment paper) from the short side. This prevents cracking when assembling later. Let it cool completely.
5. Prepare the Filling
Beat together cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
6. Assemble the Pinwheels
Unroll the cooled cake and spread a thin, even layer of cream cheese mixture over the surface. Next, add strawberry jam and distribute thinly sliced fresh strawberries for a burst of natural sweetness.
7. Roll and Chill
Carefully roll the cake back up, this time without parchment paper. Wrap in plastic wrap and chill for at least 1 hour to set the shape.
8. Slice and Serve
Once firm, slice the log into bite-sized pinwheels and enjoy the swirl of flavors!
Expert Tips for the Best Strawberry Pinwheels
- Use room-temperature eggs for a fluffier cake batter.
- Don’t overbake – a soft, pliable sponge is key for easy rolling.
- Chill before slicing to get clean, even pinwheels.
- Swap flavors – try raspberry or blueberry jam for a twist!
Serving Suggestions
Pair these pinwheels with:
- A cup of hot tea or coffee for a cozy treat.
- A coating of powdered sugar for an added touch of sweetness.
- A side of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for added indulgence.
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store in the refrigerator for up to three days in an airtight container.
- Freezing: Wrap individually and freeze for up to 2 months.
- To Serve: Let frozen pinwheels thaw in the fridge before enjoying.
FAQs
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Make the roll a day in advance and slice before serving.
What if my cake cracks?
No worries! Just add a bit more filling, and it will still taste delicious.
Can I use store-bought sponge cake?
You can, but homemade gives the best texture and flavor.
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Final Thoughts
These Strawberry Pinwheels are the perfect blend of creamy, fruity, and fluffy textures. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just indulging in a homemade treat, they’re guaranteed to be a hit. Try them out and follow us on social media for more delicious recipes!
