Name: Flag Cake with Cream Cheese Topping Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 1 h 1 min
Yield: 18
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: white cake; strawberry Jell-o; strawberries; blueberries; For Topping:; 8 oz cream cheese; ⅓ cup sugar; Whipped Topping

Celebrate any patriotic holiday with a delightful flag cake that combines the sweetness of strawberries and blueberries with a moist white cake. Topped with a smooth cream cheese mixture, this dessert is both visually stunning and delicious.

Photos of Flag Cake with Cream Cheese Topping Recipe

Most ingredients for this recipe are commonly found in your kitchen pantry, but you might need to pick up strawberry jell-o and whipped topping at the supermarket. These items are essential for creating the unique texture and structure of the flag cake.

Ingredients for Flag Cake with Cream Cheese Topping

white cake: The base of the cake, providing a neutral canvas for the vibrant toppings.

strawberry jell-o: Adds a fruity flavor and fun color to the cake.

strawberries: Fresh and juicy, these create the red stripes of the flag.

blueberries: Small and sweet, they represent the stars on the flag.

cream cheese: Softened and mixed with sugar to create a creamy topping.

sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese mixture.

whipped topping: Lightens the cream cheese mixture, creating a fluffy frosting.

One reader, Ebonee Breaux says:

This flag cake with cream cheese topping is a hit! The moist cake, fruity jell-o, and creamy topping blend perfectly. The fresh strawberries and blueberries add a delightful touch. Perfect for patriotic celebrations!

Ebonee Breaux

Techniques Required for Making Flag Cake with Cream Cheese Topping

How to prepare the cake: Follow the package directions to bake the white cake in a 9x13-inch pan. How to poke the cake: Use a fork to poke holes evenly across the cooled cake. How to dissolve jell-o: Add 1 cup of boiling water to the jell-o mixture and stir until all the powder is dissolved. How to mix cream cheese and sugar: Beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until light and fluffy. How to add whipped topping: Fold the whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture until well combined. How to create a blueberry rectangle: Arrange the blueberries in a rectangle shape in the top left corner of the frosted cake. How to cut strawberries: Slice the strawberries in half lengthwise.

How To Make Flag Cake with Cream Cheese Topping

Whip up a sweet serving of this beautiful flag cake topped with a tasteful cream cheese topping! Serve these up at your next 4th of July party.

Preparation: 20 minutes

Cooking: 35 minutes

Chill Time: 6 minutes

Total: 1 hour 1 minute

Serves:

Ingredients

white cake,1 box, plus ingredients required on the box
strawberry Jell-O,1 box, 4 serving size
strawberries
blueberries

For Topping:

8ozcream cheese,softened
⅓cupsugar
whipped topping,1 tub

Instructions

Prepare the cake in a 9×13-inch pan according to package directions.
Cool the cake, then poke the entire cake with a fork.
Add 1 cup of boiling water to the Jell-O mixture, then stir until all the powder is dissolved.
Stir in ½ cup cold water.
Gently pour the mixture over the cake.
Refrigerate for 4 hours.
Mix the softened cream cheese and sugar until light and fluffy. Add whipped topping.
Spread the frosting over the cake.
Create a blueberry rectangle in the top left corner of the cake.
Cut the strawberries in half, then place them in rows.
Refrigerate for 2 hours.
Serve, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 57.42kcal
Fat: 4.31g
Saturated Fat: 2.43g
Monounsaturated Fat: 1.09g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.18g
Carbohydrates: 4.22g
Sugar: 4.10g
Protein: 0.75g
Cholesterol: 13.86mg
Sodium: 46.03mg
Calcium: 12.38mg
Potassium: 17.46mg
Iron: 0.05mg
Vitamin A: 46.12µg

Technique Tip for Perfect Cream Cheese Topping

To ensure the jell-o mixture is evenly distributed throughout the cake, pour it slowly and evenly over the entire surface. Use a spoon to help guide the liquid into the holes if needed. This will help the cake absorb the jell-o mixture more uniformly, resulting in a consistent flavor and texture.

Time-Saving Tips for Making This Delicious Recipe

Use a boxed cake mix: Save time by using a boxed cake mix instead of making the white cake from scratch.

Pre-slice strawberries: Pre-slice the strawberries while the cake is baking to save time later.

Quick chill: Speed up the chilling process by placing the cake in the freezer for 30 minutes instead of refrigerating for 4 hours.

Pre-soften cream cheese: Leave the cream cheese out at room temperature while preparing the cake to ensure it mixes easily.

Use store-bought whipped topping: Opt for store-bought whipped topping to save time on making it from scratch.

Substitute Ingredients For Flag Cake with Cream Cheese Topping Recipe

white cake - Substitute with yellow cake: Yellow cake has a similar texture and flavor profile, making it a suitable alternative.
strawberry jell-o - Substitute with raspberry jell-o: Raspberry jell-o provides a similar fruity flavor and color, maintaining the visual appeal of the flag cake.
strawberries - Substitute with raspberries: Raspberries offer a similar tartness and vibrant red color, which works well for the flag design.
blueberries - Substitute with blackberries: Blackberries have a similar texture and dark color, making them a good alternative for the blue section of the flag.
cream cheese - Substitute with mascarpone: Mascarpone has a rich, creamy texture and mild flavor, making it a suitable replacement for cream cheese in the topping.
sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey adds a natural sweetness and can be used in a slightly reduced quantity to achieve the desired sweetness.
whipped topping - Substitute with whipped cream: Freshly whipped cream provides a similar light and airy texture, making it an excellent alternative to store-bought whipped topping.

Presentation Tips for a Stunning Flag Cake

Serve smaller portion sizes: Cut the white cake into elegant, bite-sized squares to ensure a refined presentation.
Use decoration: Arrange the blueberries and strawberries meticulously to create a visually appealing flag design, ensuring each piece has a perfect balance of colors.
Layer the flavors: Ensure the strawberry jell-o is evenly absorbed by the cake to create a harmonious blend of flavors in every bite.
Enhance the topping: Whip the cream cheese mixture until it is silky smooth, then spread it evenly over the cake for a luxurious finish.
Garnish with finesse: Add a few whole blueberries and finely sliced strawberries on top of the cream cheese topping for a touch of elegance.
Serve chilled: Ensure the cake is well-refrigerated before serving to maintain its structure and enhance the refreshing taste.
Use fine china: Present the cake on fine china or a sleek, modern platter to elevate the overall dining experience.
Add a touch of gold: Lightly dust the cake with edible gold flakes to add a luxurious touch that will impress the culinary professionals.

Essential Tools for Making Flag Cake with Cream Cheese Topping

9x13-inch pan: A rectangular baking dish used to bake the cake, ensuring even cooking and the right shape for decorating.
Fork: Used to poke holes in the cooled cake, allowing the jell-o mixture to seep in and create a moist texture.
Mixing bowl: A large bowl used to mix the jell-o with water and to prepare the cream cheese topping.
Measuring cup: Essential for accurately measuring the boiling water, cold water, and sugar.
Whisk: Used to stir the jell-o mixture until the powder is completely dissolved.
Electric mixer: Helps to mix the softened cream cheese and sugar until light and fluffy, ensuring a smooth topping.
Spatula: Handy for spreading the cream cheese topping evenly over the cake.
Knife: Used to cut the strawberries in half for decorating the cake.
Refrigerator: Necessary for chilling the cake after pouring the jell-o mixture and again after adding the topping, to set the flavors and textures.
Serving plate: Used to present the cake beautifully when serving.

Storing and Freezing Flag Cake for Later

Let the flag cake cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent condensation from forming and making the cake soggy.
To store the cake in the refrigerator, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. The cake will keep well for up to 5 days in the fridge.
If you want to freeze the cake, it's best to do so before adding the cream cheese topping. Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil. Label the cake with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
To freeze the cake with the cream cheese topping, place the cake in the freezer until the topping is firm. Then, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Label the cake with the date and freeze for up to 1 month.
To thaw the frozen cake, remove it from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. If the cake was frozen without the topping, you can add the cream cheese topping once it has thawed.
If you have leftover cake slices, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and freeze them for up to 1 month.

Is Making Flag Cake at Home Cost-Effective?

This flag cake with cream cheese topping recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients like white cake mix, strawberry jell-o, strawberries, blueberries, cream cheese, and whipped topping are relatively affordable and can be found in most grocery stores. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $15-$20 USD. Considering the festive and delightful nature of this dessert, it offers great value for its price. Overall Verdict: 8/10.

Is Flag Cake with Cream Cheese Topping Healthy or Unhealthy?

The flag cake with cream cheese topping recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not the healthiest dessert option. Here's why:

The cake itself is made from a white cake mix, which is typically high in refined flour, sugar, and unhealthy fats.
The addition of strawberry Jell-O further increases the sugar content of the cake.
The cream cheese topping, made with cream cheese, sugar, and whipped topping, adds even more sugar and fat to the dessert.
While the recipe does include some fruit (strawberries and blueberries), the amount is relatively small compared to the other ingredients.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Use a whole wheat or almond flour-based cake mix instead of white cake mix to increase the fiber content and reduce refined flour.
Reduce the amount of sugar in the cream cheese topping or use a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup.
Replace the whipped topping with homemade whipped cream using heavy cream and a small amount of sugar.
Increase the amount of fruit used in the recipe, or serve extra fresh berries on the side to boost the nutritional value.
Consider using a sugar-free or low-sugar Jell-O mix to reduce the overall sugar content of the cake.

By making these adjustments, you can create a more balanced and nutritious dessert that still satisfies your sweet tooth. Remember, moderation is key, and it's okay to indulge in a treat like this occasionally as part of a well-rounded diet.

Editor's Thoughts on the Flag Cake Recipe

This flag cake with cream cheese topping is a delightful and festive dessert, perfect for patriotic celebrations. The combination of moist white cake infused with strawberry jell-o and topped with a creamy, slightly tangy cream cheese frosting is both visually appealing and delicious. The fresh strawberries and blueberries not only add a burst of color but also complement the flavors beautifully. The recipe is straightforward, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels. Refrigeration ensures the cake is refreshing and holds its shape well. Overall, it's a crowd-pleaser that balances taste and presentation effectively.

Enhance Your Flag Cake with Cream Cheese Topping Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest: Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest: The smoky flavor of grilled asparagus pairs perfectly with the sweet and tangy notes of the flag cake. A touch of lemon zest adds a refreshing twist, making it a delightful companion to your dessert.

Caprese Salad Skewers: Caprese Salad Skewers: These vibrant skewers of cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and fresh basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a burst of flavor that complements the creamy richness of the cream cheese topping on the cake.

Honey-Glazed Carrots: Honey-Glazed Carrots: The natural sweetness of carrots enhanced with a honey glaze provides a lovely contrast to the fruity and creamy elements of the flag cake. This side dish adds a touch of elegance and a pop of color to your table.

Prosciutto-Wrapped Melon: Prosciutto-Wrapped Melon: Juicy melon slices wrapped in savory prosciutto create a delightful balance of sweet and salty flavors. This sophisticated appetizer is a perfect prelude to the dessert, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Cucumber Mint Salad: Cucumber Mint Salad: Crisp cucumber slices tossed with fresh mint leaves and a light vinaigrette offer a refreshing and palate-cleansing side dish. This salad's cool and invigorating taste harmonizes beautifully with the flag cake.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Love Flag Cake

Berry Trifle: Layered with strawberries, blueberries, pound cake, and a creamy custard filling, this dessert is a showstopper for any gathering. Top it off with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of mint leaves for a refreshing finish.

Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars: These bars combine the tangy flavor of lemon with the sweetness of blueberries in a creamy cheesecake filling. A graham cracker crust adds the perfect crunch, making it an irresistible treat.

Strawberry Shortcake: A classic dessert featuring layers of fluffy biscuits, fresh strawberries, and whipped cream. This timeless recipe is perfect for showcasing the natural sweetness of summer berries.

Blueberry Lemon Pound Cake: This moist and dense pound cake is infused with the zesty flavor of lemon and studded with juicy blueberries. A lemon glaze drizzled on top adds an extra burst of citrusy goodness.

Appetizers and Main Courses to Complement Your Flag Cake

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Stuffed Mushrooms are a delightful way to start any meal. Begin by hollowing out large mushrooms and filling them with a savory mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. Top with a sprinkle of breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese, then bake until golden brown. The creamy filling paired with the earthy flavor of the mushrooms creates a perfect bite-sized treat that will leave your guests craving more.

Caprese Skewers: Caprese Skewers offer a fresh and vibrant start to any gathering. Skewer cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, and basil leaves in an alternating pattern. Drizzle with a balsamic glaze and a touch of olive oil for an extra burst of flavor. These skewers are not only visually appealing but also provide a refreshing combination of textures and tastes, making them a perfect appetizer for any occasion.

Main Courses:

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Marinate chicken breasts in a zesty blend of lemon juice, garlic, and fresh herbs. Grill to perfection, ensuring the chicken is juicy and flavorful. Serve with a side of roasted vegetables and a light quinoa salad for a balanced and delicious meal.

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Stuffed Bell Peppers: Hollow out vibrant bell peppers and fill them with a savory mixture of ground beef, rice, and tomato sauce. Bake until the peppers are tender and the filling is perfectly cooked. Top with melted cheese and fresh parsley for a delightful and hearty dish.

Why trust this Flag Cake with Cream Cheese Topping Recipe:

This flag cake recipe is a delightful treat for any patriotic celebration. The combination of white cake, strawberry jell-o, fresh strawberries, and blueberries creates a visually stunning dessert. The cream cheese topping adds a rich and creamy texture that perfectly complements the fruity flavors. With easy-to-follow instructions and simple ingredients, this recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced bakers. Trust this recipe to impress your guests with its delicious taste and festive appearance.

Share your thoughts on the Flag Cake with Cream Cheese Topping Recipe in the Baking and Desserts forum section and let us know if you have any tips or variations to make this patriotic treat even more delicious!

FAQ:

How do I make sure the Jell-O mixture soaks into the cake properly?

After poking the cake with a fork, make sure the holes are evenly distributed. Pour the Jell-O mixture slowly and gently over the cake to ensure it seeps into the holes.

Can I use a different type of fruit for the flag design?

Absolutely! You can get creative with the fruit. Raspberries or cherries can replace strawberries, and blackberries can substitute for blueberries if you prefer.

How long should I let the cake cool before poking it with a fork?

Let the cake cool completely, which usually takes about an hour. This helps the Jell-O mixture to set properly when poured over the cake.

Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of store-bought whipped topping?

Yes, you can use homemade whipped cream. Just make sure it’s whipped to stiff peaks so it holds up well when mixed with the cream cheese and sugar.

What’s the best way to store the flag cake?

Store the flag cake in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh and prevents the cream cheese topping from drying out.