American Flag Cake

The American Flag Cake is a showstopper that never fails to impress at summer gatherings. Picture a beautiful sunny day, friends and family gathered outside, laughter in the air, and the sweet aroma of freshly baked cake wafting through the breeze. This cake, with its vibrant layers of fruit arranged to resemble the American flag, is not just a dessert; it’s a celebration of flavor and patriotism. I remember the first time I made this cake for Independence Day; I was so excited to see the smiles on my loved ones’ faces as they enjoyed each slice. The taste of fluffy cake combined with the creaminess of the frosting and the burst of fresh berries creates an unforgettable experience that perfectly encapsulates summer festivities.

The American Flag Cake holds a special place in my heart. It’s not only about the taste; it’s the memories created while baking and sharing it with others. This cake is perfect for barbecues, picnics, or any celebration where you want to add a touch of festive flair. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let’s bake something that will surely be the highlight of your next gathering!

American Flag Cake Ingredients

The ingredients for the American Flag Cake are simple yet versatile, creating a deliciously moist and flavorful cake. The key players in this recipe include butter, flour, sugar, and fresh fruits like strawberries and blueberries. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in contributing to the overall taste and texture, making this cake a summertime favorite.

• 1 cup butter: Adds richness and moisture to the cake.
• 1 cup water: Helps to keep the cake light and fluffy.
• 2 cups all-purpose flour: The base of the cake, providing structure.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda: Ensures the cake rises well.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness of the cake.
• 2 cups sugar: Provides sweetness and enhances texture.
• 2 eggs, beaten: Binds the ingredients together and adds moisture.
• ½ cup sour cream: Contributes to the cake’s moisture and tenderness.
• ½ teaspoon almond extract: Adds a delightful flavor to the cake.
• 2 (8-ounce) blocks cream cheese: The creamy base for the frosting.
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness to the frosting.
• 2-3 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting.
• ⅓ cup pineapple juice: Adds a refreshing flavor to the frosting.
• 2-3 cups (about 1 pound) strawberries, sliced: The red part of the flag, adding color and sweetness.
• 1 cup blueberries: The blue part of the flag, providing a burst of flavor.

American Flag Cake Instructions

Making the American Flag Cake is an enjoyable process that allows you to get creative. Start by gathering your ingredients and preheating your oven. The steps are easy to follow, and you’ll soon have a beautiful cake ready to impress your guests.

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F. This step is crucial for ensuring that your cake bakes evenly. While the oven heats up, grab an 11×15 baking pan, and grease it thoroughly. This will help prevent the cake from sticking, making it easier to remove once it’s baked.

2. In a saucepan, bring butter and water to a boil. It’s important to let this mixture come to a full boil to properly melt the butter and create a smooth batter. Make sure to stir occasionally to combine.

3. Once boiling, remove the saucepan from heat. Now, it’s time to whisk in the remaining dry ingredients: flour, baking soda, salt, sugar, along with the eggs, sour cream, and almond extract. Mix until everything is well combined and smooth. This is where the magic happens!

4. Pour the batter into the greased baking pan. Make sure to spread it evenly to ensure uniform baking. Bake for 20 to 22 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, your cake is ready.

5. Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan on a wire rack for 20 minutes. Cooling is essential as it allows the cake to set properly, making it easier to frost later on.

6. While the cake cools, prepare the frosting. In a medium bowl, combine the cream cheese, softened butter, powdered sugar, and pineapple juice. Use a hand mixer to cream these ingredients together until light and fluffy. This will create a rich frosting that complements the cake beautifully.

7. After the cake has cooled, spread the frosting evenly over the top. It’s okay if it’s a little messy; the more rustic, the better! The frosting will serve as the canvas for your flag design.

8. Now comes the fun part! Decorate the top of the cake using the sliced strawberries and blueberries. Arrange the strawberries in stripes and place the blueberries in the corner to represent the stars. Be as creative as you like!

9. Finally, chill the decorated cake in the refrigerator for 1 hour before serving. This helps the frosting set and makes it easier to slice. Plus, it’s refreshing to serve a cold cake on a hot summer day!

Things Worth Knowing

Tips and Tricks about American Flag Cake

Baking the perfect American Flag Cake can be made easier with these handy tips. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned baker, these tricks will ensure your cake turns out beautifully each time.

• Storage: Keep leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
• Freezing: Yes, you can freeze the cake! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil for up to 2 months.
• Pairing: This cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra treat.
• Presentation: Consider serving the cake on a festive platter to enhance its visual appeal during your celebration.
• Flavor variations: Experiment with different frosting flavors or cake bases to create your own twist on this classic recipe.

How to Serve American Flag Cake

Serving the American Flag Cake is as important as baking it. Here are some great ideas to ensure it shines at your gathering:

• Slice and serve: Cut the cake into squares, making it easy for guests to grab a piece and enjoy. A sharp knife will help you achieve clean cuts.
• Festive gatherings: This cake is perfect for summer barbecues, Fourth of July parties, or any outdoor celebration, adding a touch of patriotism.
• Storage tips: If you have leftovers, store them in the refrigerator, ensuring they are well-covered to keep them fresh.
• Seasonal pairings: Serve this cake alongside fresh summer fruits like watermelon and peaches for a refreshing treat.
• Ice cream pairing: Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side to enhance the flavors of the cake.
• Presentation: Decorate the serving table with red, white, and blue decorations to create a festive atmosphere that complements the cake.

FAQ

Conclusion

The American Flag Cake is not just a dessert; it’s a celebration of flavors and a visual delight that brings people together. Its vibrant colors and delicious taste make it the perfect addition to any summer gathering. I encourage you to try making this cake for your next event; it’s sure to impress and create lasting memories. Enjoy the process, and don’t forget to share it with loved ones!

American Flag Cake

The ultimate summer dessert, the American Flag Cake is a deliciously moist cake with fresh berries and creamy frosting. Perfect for any celebration, its stunning appearance and delightful flavors will leave everyone craving more. Make this cake tonight for a show-stopping treat!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 25 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 24 servings

Course: Desserts

Cuisine: American

Calories: 320

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 cup butter
• 1 cup water
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups sugar
• 2 eggs, beaten
• ½ cup sour cream
• ½ teaspoon almond extract
• 2 8-ounce blocks cream cheese
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 2-3 cups powdered sugar
• ⅓ cup pineapple juice
• 2-3 cups (about 1 pound) strawberries, sliced
• 1 cup blueberries

Equipment

• jelly roll pan
• wire cooling rack
• icing spatula

Method

 

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F. This step is crucial for ensuring that your cake bakes evenly. While the oven heats up, grab an 11×15 baking pan, and grease it thoroughly. This will help prevent the cake from sticking, making it easier to remove once it’s baked.
2. In a saucepan, bring butter and water to a boil. It’s important to let this mixture come to a full boil to properly melt the butter and create a smooth batter. Make sure to stir occasionally to combine.
3. Once boiling, remove the saucepan from heat. Now, it’s time to whisk in the remaining dry ingredients: flour, baking soda, salt, sugar, along with the eggs, sour cream, and almond extract. Mix until everything is well combined and smooth. This is where the magic happens!
4. Pour the batter into the greased baking pan. Make sure to spread it evenly to ensure uniform baking. Bake for 20 to 22 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, your cake is ready.
5. Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan on a wire rack for 20 minutes. Cooling is essential as it allows the cake to set properly, making it easier to frost later on.
6. While the cake cools, prepare the frosting. In a medium bowl, combine the cream cheese, softened butter, powdered sugar, and pineapple juice. Use a hand mixer to cream these ingredients together until light and fluffy. This will create a rich frosting that complements the cake beautifully.
7. After the cake has cooled, spread the frosting evenly over the top. It’s okay if it’s a little messy; the more rustic, the better! The frosting will serve as the canvas for your flag design.
8. Now comes the fun part! Decorate the top of the cake using the sliced strawberries and blueberries. Arrange the strawberries in stripes and place the blueberries in the corner to represent the stars. Be as creative as you like!
9. Finally, chill the decorated cake in the refrigerator for 1 hour before serving. This helps the frosting set and makes it easier to slice. Plus, it’s refreshing to serve a cold cake on a hot summer day!

Notes

• Use fresh fruit: Always opt for fresh fruit over frozen, as frozen berries can become mushy and bleed juices when thawed.
• Piping tips: If you want more pronounced white stripes, consider using a piping tip to apply the frosting.
• Colorful cakes: You can create a red or blue cake by adding food coloring to the batter before baking for a fun twist.

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Meet Nora Wells

The Hearth Keeper For me, cooking is about hospitality. I want every recipe we create to make people feel welcome and safe. I love the old ways of cooking cast iron skillets, wooden spoons, and recipes passed down through generations. I work with the team to add that touch of nostalgia to our dishes. Whether we are making a modern pasta or a vintage cake, I’m there to ensure it tastes like home.