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How Do I Choose the Best 4th of July Desserts?

G. Wiesen
G. Wiesen

When you look for the best 4th of July desserts, you might wish to consider the temperature range for serving them and the preparation necessary. There are many different types of treats that can be served during a celebration of America’s Independence Day, though flag cakes are among the most popular. Fresh fruits are quite plentiful during the summer, such as different berries and melons, and these can be used to make desserts as well. The best 4th of July desserts also should work well with the rest of the meal you have planned, and dishes that you can prepare ahead of time can be the most convenient.

Flag cakes are extremely popular choices that are usually made from a standard cake, or one that includes gelatin. This is topped with plain white frosting, followed by the pattern of the American flag. Fresh-cut strawberries are typically used for the red stripes in a flag cake, while blueberries often provide the stars.

Blueberries can be used to make the stars on a US flag cake.
Blueberries can be used to make the stars on a US flag cake.

In this way, a flag cake captures both various elements of many different 4th of July desserts. The fruits used on this dish are those that are popular and in season during the summer. Various berries, including strawberries, blackberries, and raspberries can all be found in the summertime and are especially popular for different 4th of July desserts. In addition to cakes, consider pies and similar dishes, like buckles and cobblers, that you can easily make using these types of fruits.

Individual cups of pudding make a lovely presentation for dessert on the 4th of July.
Individual cups of pudding make a lovely presentation for dessert on the 4th of July.

Pies and cobblers are popular choices, as they can be made ahead of time. This allows you to bake these 4th of July desserts prior to the holiday, while giving yourself extra time for preparing other dishes. If you are hosting a picnic, barbeque, or other type of party, then these types of planning considerations can make a tremendous difference in terms of how challenging your meal is to prepare.

Pie might be served during a 4th of July party.
Pie might be served during a 4th of July party.

Various cold and frozen dishes are also popular 4th of July desserts, though care should be taken to ensure they can remain cold prior to serving. Due to the high heat of July in most parts of the US, treats like ice cream and frozen pops can be both refreshing and popular. These types of desserts need to be kept cold, however, which can make them less than ideal for a picnic or similar event. Be sure you have a cooler or similar storage option before choosing frozen 4th of July desserts.

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    • Blueberries can be used to make the stars on a US flag cake.
      By: Mariusz Blach
      Blueberries can be used to make the stars on a US flag cake.
    • Individual cups of pudding make a lovely presentation for dessert on the 4th of July.
      By: kuvona
      Individual cups of pudding make a lovely presentation for dessert on the 4th of July.
    • Pie might be served during a 4th of July party.
      By: jamierogers1
      Pie might be served during a 4th of July party.