Name: American Flag Cake
Cook time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 25 minutes
Yield: Makes 1 (13- by 9-inch) cake
Ingredients: 1 cup boiling water; 3/4 cup natural unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 tablespoon instant coffee granules; 1/2 cup whole milk; 1 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract; 2 cups all-purpose flour, plus additional flour for dusting pan; 1 1/4 teaspoons baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 2 sticks (1/2 pound) unsalted butter, softened, plus additional butter for greasing pan; 1 cup packed light brown sugar; 1 cup sugar; 4 large eggs; 2 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, at room temperature; 2 sticks (1/2 pound) unsalted butter, at room temperature; 1 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract; 1 1/2 cups confectioners' sugar, sifted; 1 1/2 pints raspberries (about 3 cups total); 1/2 pint blueberries (about 1 cup total); Equipment: 13- by 9-inch metal baking pan, stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, pastry bag, star-shaped pastry tip (such as Wilton #2110)

Image may contain Plant Raspberry Fruit Food Strawberry and Blueberry

July 4th Flag CakeKelly Senyei

No Fourth of July celebration is complete without a traditional flag cake studded with sweet summer berries. But slice into our Stars and Stripes creation and you'll quickly discover this isn't your everyday vanilla sheet cake with buttercream frosting. For a fresh new take on everyone's favorite red, white, and blue finale, we paired moist chocolate cake with tangy cream cheese frosting, and finished with juicy raspberries and blueberries. Have no fear if cake decorating isn't your strong suit. You'll be able to master this patriotic design using our step-by-step photos and tips for frosting and adorning the ultimate Independence Day dessert.

Recipe notes

See Related Recipes and Cooking Tips

23 Sheet Cake Recipes for Big Crowds (or Just You)
For bake sales, birthday parties, or just a week of snacking.
How to Decorate a July 4th Flag Cake
Salute the red, white, and blue with a recipe and step-by-step photos for decorating an iconic Independence Day dessert
Red, White, and Blue Desserts
Because you aren't celebrating right if you don't make it a little patriotic.

Chocolate Guinness Cake

A generous glug of stout gives this snackable loaf a malty depth.

Hot Honey–Glazed Salmon

This broiled hot honey salmon recipe results in sweet, spicy, glossy fish coated in a homemade hot honey glaze for an easy weeknight dinner or make-ahead lunch.

One-Pot Chicken Thighs With Cilantro Rice and Beans

This one-pot dinner cooks chicken thighs directly on top of a bed of flavorful cilantro rice studded with black beans for a complete dinner.

Caramelized Onion Pasta

Turn humble onions into this thrifty yet luxe pasta dinner.

Classic French Vinaigrette

Use this simple vinaigrette to dress a plate of greens, some steamed potatoes, or anything else that strikes your fancy.

Béchamel Sauce

This classic 15-minute sauce is your secret weapon for homemade mac and cheese, chowder, lasagna, and more.

Speedy Chicken Stroganoff

This easy, one-skillet chicken stroganoff features tender chicken breasts, savory mushrooms, and a creamy Dijon-crème fraîche sauce—perfect for weeknights.

Cod With Lemon Butter Sauce

A flurry of fresh tarragon makes this speedy weeknight dish of seared cod and luscious, sun-colored pan sauce feel restaurant worthy.

Recipe notes

23 Sheet Cake Recipes for Big Crowds (or Just You)

How to Decorate a July 4th Flag Cake

Red, White, and Blue Desserts