Simple Fruit and Cheese Skewers

Celebrate Independence Day with a spectacular 4th of July Cake that embodies the spirit of patriotism and festivity. This vibrant cake, featuring layers of red, white, and blue, is not only a visual treat but also a delicious delight. Perfect for your holiday gatherings, this cake will impress your guests and make your celebration extra special with its colorful appearance and scrumptious flavor.3

Preparation and Cooking Times

• Preparation Time: 40 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Servings and Serving Size

• Servings: 12
• Serving Size: 1 slice

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 60g
• Fat: 22g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 40g
• Sodium: 250mg

Ingredients

• For the Cake:

  • 375g (3 cups) all-purpose flour
  • 300g (1.5 cups) granulated sugar
  • 225g (1 cup) unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 large eggs
  • 240ml (1 cup) whole milk
  • 1 tbsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • Red and blue food coloring

• For the Frosting:

  • 450g (2 cups) unsalted butter, softened
  • 900g (8 cups) powdered sugar
  • 60ml (1/4 cup) heavy cream
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

• For Decoration:

  • Fresh strawberries, sliced
  • Fresh blueberries
  • Red, white, and blue sprinkles

Method of Preparation

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, cream the butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.
4. In another bowl, sift together the flour and baking powder. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture.
5. Divide the batter evenly into three separate bowls. Add red food coloring to one bowl and blue food coloring to another, leaving the third bowl plain.
6. Pour each colored batter into the prepared cake pans and spread evenly.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then remove them from the pans and let them cool completely on wire racks.
9. In a large bowl, beat the butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition.
10. Add the heavy cream and vanilla extract, and continue beating until the frosting is light and fluffy.
11. Place the blue cake layer on a serving plate and spread a layer of frosting on top.
12. Place the white cake layer on top of the blue layer and spread another layer of frosting.
13. Place the red cake layer on top and frost the entire cake with a thin layer of frosting (crumb coat). Refrigerate for 15 minutes.
14. Apply a final, thicker layer of frosting, smoothing it out evenly.
15. Arrange the sliced strawberries and blueberries on top of the cake to create a festive pattern.
16. Sprinkle the red, white, and blue sprinkles around the edges and sides of the cake.

Tips for Culinary Success

• Ensure the cakes are completely cool before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
• Use gel food coloring for more vibrant colors without altering the batter's consistency.
• Refrigerate the cake for 30 minutes after the crumb coat to make applying the final layer of frosting easier.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Q: Can I make the cake layers ahead of time? A: Yes, you can bake the cake layers a day in advance. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them at room temperature.
2. Q: Can I use a different type of frosting? A: Absolutely! Cream cheese frosting or whipped cream frosting would also work well with this cake.
3. Q: How do I store the cake? A: Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Bring it to room temperature before serving.

Ending Text: Light up your 4th of July celebration with this stunning and delicious patriotic cake. With its vibrant layers of red, white, and blue, this cake not only tastes amazing but also captures the festive spirit of Independence Day. Share it with family and friends and enjoy the smiles it brings to your holiday gathering. Happy 4th of July!