Introduction
Celebrate with a delightful dessert that embodies the colors of patriotism! This red, white, and blue cake not only looks festive for any celebration but also tastes delectable. Combining a light and fluffy white cake with vibrant gelatin layers and creamy toppings, this recipe is perfect for summer gatherings, barbecues, or any occasion that calls for a sweet and colorful treat.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 package white cake mix, prepared as directed on the box
3-ounce package strawberry gelatin
3-ounce package berry blue gelatin
2 cups boiling water (1 cup for each gelatin)
2 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
½ cup powdered sugar, divided
8 ounces whipped topping, thawed
Red, white, and blue sprinkles
Prep Time
30 minutes
Cook Time
30 minutes
Total Time
4 hours and 30 minutes
Yield
12 servings
This festive cake will be a showstopper at your next event, delighting guests with its colorful presentation and rich flavors. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious dessert that’s sure to impress!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Bake the Cake
Bake the white cake in a 13×9-inch pan according to the package instructions. Once baked, allow it to cool completely in the pan.
Step 2: Poke Holes
Using the handle of a wooden spoon or a wide straw, poke holes about two-thirds of the way through the cake, spacing them approximately one inch apart. Ensure the holes go deep but do not reach the bottom of the pan.
Step 3: Prepare Gelatin
Dissolve the strawberry gelatin in one cup of boiling water and the berry blue gelatin in another cup of boiling water. Stir each gelatin mixture until fully dissolved.
Step 4: Fill the Holes
Spoon the blue gelatin into some of the holes, then fill the remaining holes with the red gelatin. Alternate the rows to create a visually appealing red and blue pattern throughout the cake.
Step 5: Cream Cheese Mixtures
In separate bowls, mix 8 ounces of softened cream cheese with ¼ cup powdered sugar and the remaining red gelatin in one bowl. In another bowl, mix the other 8 ounces of cream cheese with ¼ cup powdered sugar and the remaining blue gelatin. If desired, adjust the colors with food coloring for a more vibrant appearance.
Step 6: Layer Cream Cheese Mixtures
Spread the red cream cheese mixture evenly over the top of the cake, followed by the blue cream cheese mixture. Ensure an even layer for both colors.
Step 7: Add Whipped Topping
Top the cake with the thawed whipped topping, smoothing it out with a spatula to create an even surface.
Step 8: Decorate
Sprinkle red, white, and blue sprinkles generously over the whipped topping for a festive touch.
Step 9: Refrigerate
Refrigerate the completed cake for at least 4 hours before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the gelatin to set properly.
Notes
Storage Instructions
Store any leftover cake in the refrigerator covered tightly to maintain freshness.
Substitutions
For a different flavor, consider using different flavored cake mixes or gelatins, adjusting the colors as needed to match.
Serving Suggestions
This cake is perfect for festive occasions, especially during summer celebrations like the Fourth of July or Memorial Day.
Cook techniques
Preparing the Cake
Bake the white cake as directed on the package in a 13×9-inch pan. Ensure it cools completely before proceeding with the next steps.
Poking Holes in the Cake
Use the handle of a wooden spoon or a wide straw to poke holes in the cake, making sure they are about two-thirds of the way through and spaced approximately an inch apart.
Dissolving Gelatin
Dissolve each flavor of gelatin in separate cups of boiling water. Ensure each gelatin is fully dissolved before using.
Inserting Gelatin into the Cake
Spoon the blue gelatin into some of the holes, and alternate with the red gelatin in the remaining holes to create a striped pattern.
Mixing Cream Cheese and Gelatin
In two separate bowls, combine softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and the corresponding gelatin. You may adjust colors with food coloring if desired.
Spreading Cream Cheese Mixtures
Spread the red cream cheese mixture evenly over the cake first, followed by the blue cream cheese mixture.
Topping with Whipped Cream
Top the cake with whipped topping, ensuring an even layer, and then decorate with sprinkles in red, white, and blue.
Chilling the Cake
Refrigerate the completed cake for at least four hours to allow the flavors to meld and the gelatin to set.
FAQ
Can I use a different cake mix flavor?
Yes, you can substitute with another flavor, but the visual effect and taste will change.
How long can I store the cake?
The cake can be refrigerated for up to 3–4 days. Be sure to cover it to maintain freshness.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! Making the cake a day in advance is a great way to save time.
What can I use instead of cream cheese?
You can use mascarpone or a non-dairy cream cheese substitute for a different flavor profile.
How do I make it more colorful?
You can adjust the color intensity of the cream cheese mixtures by adding food coloring to achieve your desired vibrant shades.
Conclusion
This festive red, white, and blue cake is not only visually appealing but also deliciously delightful, making it an impressive centerpiece for any celebration. The combination of layers infused with fruity flavors and the rich cream cheese frosting creates a perfect balance that will please guests of all ages. Chilling the cake before serving allows the flavors to meld beautifully, ensuring a refreshing treat.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Layered Jello Cups
Create individual cups with layers of colorful jello made from different flavored gelatin. Alternate layers of whipped topping for a creamy texture.
Berry Trifle
Combine layers of sponge cake, mixed berries, and whipped cream in a trifle dish. Drizzle with berry sauce for added flavor.
Red Velvet Cupcakes
Bake red velvet cupcakes and top them with cream cheese frosting and festive sprinkles for a classic dessert.
Fruit Salad with Lime Dressing
Mix an array of fresh fruits such as strawberries, blueberries, and bananas, and drizzle with a zesty lime dressing for a refreshing side dish.
Patriotic Parfaits
Layer yogurt with granola and fresh berries in a glass for a healthy and colorful treat that’s perfect for summer gatherings.
Chocolate Dipped Strawberries
Dip fresh strawberries in melted white chocolate, then sprinkle with red, white, and blue edible glitter for an elegant, themed dessert.
