As the Fourth of July approaches, many of us are busy planning parties and get-togethers to celebrate our nation’s independence. One of the most important aspects of any party? The desserts! Who doesn’t love a sweet treat on a hot summer day? To help you plan your patriotic dessert spread, we’ve gathered 20 delicious and festive recipes that are sure to impress your guests. From classic flag cakes and star-spangled sugar cookies to creative parfaits and popsicles, these treats are perfect for the holiday. Whether you’re looking for something simple and easy or a show-stopping centerpiece, we’ve got you covered.
Red White and Blue Berry Trifle
This show-stopping dessert celebrates the colors of the American flag with a layered trifle featuring strawberries, vanilla pudding, blueberries, and whipped cream. Perfect for Independence Day celebrations or any patriotic occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 cups mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries)
– 1 cup vanilla pudding
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup milk
– 6-8 ladyfingers
– Fresh strawberries and blueberries for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the vanilla pudding, sugar, and milk until well combined.
3. Cut the ladyfingers into 1-inch pieces and set aside.
4. Begin assembling the trifle by spreading half of the pudding mixture in the bottom of a large serving dish.
5. Arrange half of the ladyfingers on top of the pudding layer.
6. Spoon over with half of the mixed berries, leaving some for garnish.
7. Repeat layers: pudding, ladyfingers, and berries.
8. Top with whipped cream and garnish with fresh strawberries and blueberries.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Patriotic Flag Cake
Celebrate Independence Day with a classic American dessert that’s as easy to make as it is delicious! This Patriotic Flag Cake is a show-stopper for any 4th of July gathering, featuring a moist vanilla cake, creamy blue frosting, and vibrant red strawberries.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– Blue frosting (store-bought or homemade)
– Fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add butter and mix until combined.
3. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
4. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
5. Allow cakes to cool completely before frosting with blue frosting, creating the flag’s stripes.
6. Arrange sliced strawberries on top of the cake to resemble the stars on the American flag.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Fireworks Cupcakes with Sprinkles
Get ready to celebrate with these vibrant Fireworks Cupcakes! With their bright colors and sweet flavors, they’re perfect for any occasion that deserves a festive touch.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– Colored sprinkles for decorating
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Beat in vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, alternating with sprinkles, beginning and ending with dry ingredients. Beat just until combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among cupcake liners. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Allow cupcakes to cool completely before decorating with colored sprinkles.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Star-Spangled Sugar Cookies
Celebrate American pride with these classic sugar cookies adorned with star-shaped sprinkles and a touch of patriotic flair.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Star-shaped sprinkles (red, white, and blue)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
6. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or glass rim.
7. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch space between each.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Berry Cheesecake Parfaits
Elevate your dessert game with these stunning Berry Cheesecake Parfaits, featuring a creamy cheesecake base, sweet berries, and crunchy cookie crumbs. Perfect for special occasions or a quick indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– Whipped cream, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until combined. Press into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
4. Pour cheesecake mixture over crust.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until edges are set.
6. Let cool completely before layering with berries and whipped cream.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
American Flag Fruit Pizza
Celebrate Independence Day with this colorful and refreshing fruit pizza that’s perfect for backyard BBQs or patriotic parties. This easy-to-make treat is sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike!
Ingredients:
– 1 pre-made pizza crust (or 1 package of sugar cookies)
– 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 1 cup sliced peaches
– 1/2 cup whipped cream
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Edible star and stripe decorations (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Roll out the pizza crust or prepare the sugar cookies.
3. Arrange the mixed berries in a red stripe pattern, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Place sliced peaches on top of the berries to create white “stars.”
5. Drizzle honey over the fruit for a touch of sweetness.
6. Top with whipped cream to resemble the American flag’s blue field.
7. Add edible star and stripe decorations, if desired.
8. Chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None! This is a no-bake recipe perfect for hot summer days.
Fourth of July Ice Cream Sandwiches
Beat the heat this Fourth of July with these sweet and refreshing ice cream sandwiches. A perfect combination of creamy vanilla ice cream, crunchy cookies, and festive colors will make your Independence Day celebration a hit!
Ingredients:
– 1 pint of vanilla ice cream
– 12-15 red, white, and blue star-shaped cookies (or regular cookies in patriotic colors)
– Whipped cream and blueberries for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Scoop the vanilla ice cream into balls, about 1-inch in diameter.
2. Place a scoop of ice cream between two cookies, creating a sandwich.
3. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
4. If desired, top each sandwich with whipped cream and a few blueberries to resemble the American flag.
Cooking Time: None! Just assemble and serve.
Patriotic Popsicles
Celebrate Independence Day with these refreshing popsicles that are as red, white, and blue as the American flag! This easy recipe is perfect for kids and adults alike to enjoy a sweet treat while showing their patriotic spirit.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Red and blue food coloring
– Popsicle sticks and wrappers
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine yogurt, mixed berries, sugar, and lemon juice. Blend until smooth.
2. Add red and blue food coloring to tint the mixture red and white. Stir well.
3. Pour the mixture into popsicle molds or small cups.
4. Insert popsicle sticks and cover with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
5. Freeze for at least 4 hours or overnight.
6. Enjoy your patriotic popsicles!
Cooking Time: 4 hours or overnight
Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting
Elevate your baking game with these decadent red velvet brownies, paired with a tangy cream cheese frosting. Perfect for satisfying any sweet tooth or impressing guests at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup (50g) red velvet cake mix
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup (120g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
– Cream cheese frosting (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add cake mix, eggs, and vanilla extract; mix until smooth.
4. Melt chocolate chips in microwave or double boiler; let cool slightly.
5. Fold melted chocolate into the batter until combined.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cream Cheese Frosting:
– 8 ounces (225g) cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup (100g) unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups (250g) powdered sugar
Combine all ingredients until smooth and creamy. Spread over cooled brownies.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Blueberry Lemon Bars
These bite-sized bars combine the sweetness of blueberries with the brightness of lemon, perfect for a springtime treat or a dessert to impress your friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup fresh blueberries
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon lemon zest
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, granulated sugar, and confectioners’ sugar in a medium bowl.
3. Add melted butter, blueberries, lemon juice, egg, and lemon zest. Stir until combined.
4. Press mixture into prepared baking dish.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
6. Let cool completely before glazing with additional lemon juice (optional).
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Strawberry Shortcake Skewers
A sweet twist on a classic dessert, these strawberry shortcake skewers are perfect for parties, picnics, or just a special treat. Fresh strawberries, whipped cream, and crumbled biscuits come together in a bite-sized package that’s sure to delight!
Ingredients:
– 1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 6-8 shortcake biscuits (homemade or store-bought)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Split the shortcake biscuits in half horizontally.
3. Thread a strawberry slice, followed by a biscuit half, and topped with a dollop of whipped cream onto skewer or toothpick.
4. Repeat the layers two more times, finishing with a biscuit half on top.
5. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (no cooking required!)
Raspberry White Chocolate Blondies
These chewy blondies are packed with sweet-tart raspberries and creamy white chocolate, making them the perfect dessert for any occasion. With a short baking time and simple ingredients, they’re also easy to make in a flash.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 and 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup fresh raspberries
– 6 ounces white chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the flour mixture, then stir in raspberries and white chocolate chips.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Flag-Themed Rice Krispie Treats
Get ready to celebrate American pride with these star-spangled Flag-Themed Rice Krispie Treats! With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create adorable treats that are perfect for patriotic parties or as a fun snack.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups Rice Krispies cereal
– 12 tablespoons (1 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter
– 9 cups marshmallows
– Red and blue food coloring
– White frosting or white chocolate chips
– Edible gold dust or yellow sprinkles (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
2. Add the marshmallows and stir until melted and smooth.
3. Remove from heat and add red food coloring to tint the mixture pink.
4. Pour in the Rice Krispies cereal and stir until evenly coated.
5. Press the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch pan.
6. Allow the treats to cool and harden before cutting into desired shapes using a star-shaped cookie cutter or scissors.
7. Decorate with white frosting or melted white chocolate, and add edible gold dust or yellow sprinkles for a patriotic touch.
Cooking Time: About 10-15 minutes from start to finish.
Patriotic Chocolate Covered Strawberries
Showcase your American pride with these decadent treats, perfect for Independence Day celebrations or anytime you want to add a touch of red, white, and blue flair.
Ingredients:
– 1 pint fresh strawberries
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– 1 tablespoon blueberry jam
– Fresh blueberries for garnish
Instructions:
1. Wash and dry the strawberries.
2. Melt the white chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl, stirring every 30 seconds until smooth.
3. Dip each strawberry into the melted white chocolate, coating about 3/4 of the fruit.
4. Place the coated strawberries on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
5. Drizzle blueberry jam over the white chocolate-covered strawberries in a star pattern.
6. Melt the dark chocolate chips and dip the top of each strawberry into the melted dark chocolate.
7. Garnish with fresh blueberries.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (includes melting time)
Red White and Blue Jello Cups
Red White and Blue Jello Cups Recipe
Celebrate America’s birthday with these patriotic treats! These colorful jello cups are a fun and easy dessert to make for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened red grape jello
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened white pineapple jello
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) blue raspberry jello
– 1 cup cold water
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Whipped cream and blueberries for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine boiling water with each flavor of jello. Stir until dissolved.
2. Add cold water to each mixture and stir well.
3. Pour red mixture into 12 small cups or ramekins. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight until set.
4. Repeat steps 1-3 for white and blue mixtures, using separate bowls and cups.
5. To assemble, place a blue cup on top of a red cup, then add a white cup on top.
6. Top with whipped cream and blueberries, if desired.
Cooking Time: 3 hours or overnight
Sparkler Cake with Edible Glitter
Add some sparkle to your celebrations with this show-stopping Sparkler Cake, featuring edible glitter and a tender vanilla cake. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any occasion that deserves a little extra magic.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Edible glitter (color of your choice)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together butter, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Combine wet and dry ingredients; mix until smooth.
5. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Allow cakes to cool before assembling with your favorite frosting and decorating with edible glitter.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Berry Cobbler with Star Crust
This classic cobbler recipe gets a celestial twist with a star-shaped crust that’s sure to impress. With fresh berries and a crumbly topping, this dessert is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten
– Star-shaped cookie cutter (about 3 inches in diameter)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine berries and sugar; let it sit for 15 minutes.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
4. Add melted butter, beaten egg, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients; mix until a crumbly dough forms.
5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
6. Use the star-shaped cookie cutter to create stars from the dough.
7. Arrange the berry mixture in a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with the star-shaped crusts.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Independence Day S’mores Dip
Celebrate Independence Day with a twist on the classic campfire treat! This creamy s’mores dip is perfect for your Fourth of July gathering, and it’s ridiculously easy to make.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) container cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup marshmallow creme
– 1/4 cup chocolate chips
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Graham cracker crumbs and additional marshmallows for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix cream cheese until smooth.
3. Add marshmallow creme, chocolate chips, butter, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
4. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the dip is warm and bubbly.
6. Serve with graham cracker crumbs and additional marshmallows.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Stars and Stripes Pie
Stars and Stripes Pie: A Patriotic Treat for Your Next BBQ or Picnic!
This show-stopping dessert is perfect for your next outdoor gathering, with its colorful layers of blueberry and strawberry filling, topped with a golden brown crust. Make it a star of your spread with this easy recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup melted butter
– 2 cups mixed berries (blueberries and strawberries)
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well combined. Press into a 9-inch pie dish.
3. Arrange the mixed berries in layers, reserving some for garnish.
4. Whisk together heavy cream, cornstarch, and vanilla extract. Pour over the berries.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until crust is golden brown and filling is set.
6. Allow to cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Patriotic Layered Pudding Dessert
Celebrate Independence Day with this vibrant and delicious layered pudding dessert, featuring red, white, and blue colors.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup vanilla pudding mix
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
• 1 cup whipped cream
• Red and blue food coloring
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine pudding mix, heavy cream, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
2. Spoon about half of the pudding mixture into a serving dish or individual cups.
3. Add a layer of mixed berries on top of the pudding.
4. Repeat step 2 with the remaining pudding mixture.
5. Top with whipped cream and add a few drops of red food coloring to tint it pink.
6. Drizzle blue food coloring over the whipped cream to create a patriotic flag design.
Cooking Time: None! This dessert is ready in minutes.
Tips:
• Adjust the amount of mixed berries to your liking.
• Use store-bought whipped cream or make your own for added convenience.
• Add some star-spangled sprinkles on top for extra festivity!
Summary
Get ready to celebrate Independence Day with these 20 festive and delicious dessert recipes! From classic red, white, and blue treats like trifle and parfaits, to patriotic flag cakes and sugar cookies, there’s something for everyone. Indulge in star-spangled cupcakes, fireworks-themed rice krispie treats, and even a sparkler cake with edible glitter. Impress your guests with layered pudding desserts, s’mores dips, and berry cobblers with star crusts. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or attending a patriotic party, these sweet treats are sure to be a hit.
