Sweet Land of Liberty: 29+ Patriotic Desserts to Celebrate July 4th

Lifestyle

| LAST UPDATE 06/07/2023

By Riley Hammond

It's time to put the "yum" in Yankee Doodle Dandy with these festive July 4th-themed desserts. From star-spangled sundaes to American flag brownies, get ready to indulge in some patriotic deliciousness!

Tasty American Trifle

Who says you can’t have your cake and eat it too? Especially when it’s a red, white and blueberry trifle! It's the ultimate way to show off your patriotism on July 4th while satisfying your sweet tooth.

American trifle Independence dessertAmerican trifle Independence dessert
Instagram via @cookingwithjudi

And the best part? The patriotic fruit tart is easy to make. Just whip up the crust and filling, add the berries, and let it chill. You can even get creative with the design and make it look like an American flag or a bald eagle (okay, maybe not a bald eagle, but you get the idea).

Cream Cheese Flag Cake

This dessert is as American as apple pie, baseball, and bald eagles. The cake itself is moist and flavorful, while the cream cheese frosting adds just the right amount of tanginess to balance out the sweetness. It’s like a hidden treasure trove of red, white, and blue deliciousness.

cheesecake American flag dessertcheesecake American flag dessert
Instagram via @wicketsmom_83

It’s like the American flag decided to make an appearance on your dessert table. And as for how to make it? Just whip up the cake batter, bake it up, and then decorate it with the cream cheese frosting and berries. It’s like a culinary work of art that anyone can create.

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Firecracker Popcorn

It’s sweet, it’s spicy, it’s smoky – it’s like a flavor explosion in your mouth. It’s like if the Statue of Liberty was a snack. And the the festive red, white, and blue sprinkles are definitely the stars (pun intended) of the show when it comes to this delicious treat.

July 4th popcorn dessertJuly 4th popcorn dessert
Instagram via @lenadelawyn

Plus, firecracker popcorn is super easy to make. Just pop some corn, toss it with the seasoning and sprinkles, and you’re done. You can even mix in some dried fruit or nuts for an extra crunch. And who knows, it might even make you feel like you’re watching the fireworks from the comfort of your own snack bowl.

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American Flag Cookies

Here's a little bite of freedom in every cookie – and who doesn’t love that? You can bake these cookies from scratch and cut them into any shape you want – stars, circles, even the shape of the United States itself. Or, if you’re short on time, you can buy pre-made cookies and just decorate them with frosting and sprinkles.

American Flag patriotic cookiesAmerican Flag patriotic cookies
Instagram via @simplyjoyfulcookies

And let’s talk about the decorating options. You can go for a classic look with red, white, and blue frosting and sprinkles. Or, if you’re feeling extra creative, you can create a flag design using different colors and shapes. It’s like an edible work of art!

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USA-Themed Crepes

The crepes themselves are soft, buttery, and slightly sweet – a perfect vessel for any filling. But what sets these crepes apart for Independence Day are the toppings. The beautiful star-spangle-inspired decorations are not only delicious, but can make decorating this dessert quite fun!

July 4th desserts crepeJuly 4th desserts crepe
Instagram via @ojdorman

You can arrange blueberries, strawberries, whipped cream, and sprinkles to look like the American flag, or just add them on top of your dessert in a beautiful blend of red white and blue! And let’s not forget about the drizzle of syrup infused with fresh mint, which adds a refreshing pop of flavor to these already amazing crepes.

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Watermelon Feta Salad

This sweet and juicy treat is the great way to beat the heat while showing off your patriotic spirit. The watermelon itself is the perfect summer treat, but just think what it could do to your taste buds when combined with juicy strawberries, plump blueberries, and creamy feta cheese.

July 4th summer watermelonJuly 4th summer watermelon
Instagram via @carynwinesalot

But the real star of the show is the presentation. You can the watermelon into pizza-like wedges, or you can create a beautiful red, white, and blue salad. It’s like if Michelangelo was a dessert chef. Just slice up a watermelon, add your toppings, and voila – you’re done!

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Bomb Pop Cupcakes

These cupcakes are like a party in your mouth. The cake itself is moist and flavorful, with just the right amount of sweetness. But what really sets these cupcakes apart are the toppings. Two swirls of bright blue raspberry and cherry frosting create a beautiful tie-dye effect that's almost too pretty to eat. Almost.

patriotic cupcake Independence Daypatriotic cupcake Independence Day
Instagram via @homebakedblessings

But don't be intimidated by their fancy appearance – bomb pop cupcakes are surprisingly easy to make. Red and blue sprinkles add a festive touch, while candy stars and stripes complete the patriotic theme. With just a few simple ingredients and some decorating flair, you can create a dessert that will impress all your guests.

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Blueberry and Raspberry Cheesecake

Looking for a dessert that’s as cool and refreshing as a dip in the lake on a hot July day? Look no further than blueberry and raspberry cheesecake bars. These sweet and tangy treats are the perfect way to beat the heat while indulging in something delicious.

Cheescake blueberry raspberry USACheescake blueberry raspberry USA
Instagram via @kosmic_kreepers

Blueberry and raspberry cheesecake bars are surprisingly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients and some creative decorating skills, you can create a stunning dessert that will have your guests begging for seconds. They’re like a little taste of summer – with a patriotic twist.

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Summer Berry Pie

What's red, white, and berrylicious all over? It's the summer berry pie - the perfect dessert for your Fourth of July get-together. This pie is like a parade of flavors that will have your taste buds marching to the beat of their own drum. And the flaky crust provides the perfect balance to the sweetness of the fruit.

USA summer berry pieUSA summer berry pie
Instagram via @stuarton28th

A lattice crust on top shows off the colorful berries in all their glory, making this pie as beautiful as it is delicious. So, whether you're hosting a big backyard BBQ or just want to enjoy a patriotic dessert with your family, summer berry pie is the way to go. It's like a slice of Americana, with a fresh and fruity twist.

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Red Velvet Cupcakes

What's a better way to celebrate America's birthday than with a classic red velvet cupcakes with cream cheese frosting? The velvety and rich red cake is made with just the right amount of chocolate for the occasion! But the real star of the show is the creamy and fluffy cream cheese frosting that complements the cake so perfectly.

July 4th cream cupcakesJuly 4th cream cupcakes
Instagram via @monyssweetbakery

A swirl of white frosting on top of the crimson cake creates a mesmerizing contrast that's too beautiful to ignore. It's like looking at a mini work of art before devouring it. These cupcakes are like a fireworks show of flavor, exploding with a perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess in every bite.

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Brownie Flag Stack

What's better than a delicious and creative dessert that pays homage to the American flag? It's none other than the brownie flag stack - a dessert that's like a work of art. Picture a rich, fudgy, brownie base topped with frosting in all the colors of our grand old flag.

American flag brownie dessertAmerican flag brownie dessert
Instagram via @cupcakesbyleanne17

You can also use a combination of whipped cream, strawberries, and blueberries to create the combination of our country's colors for your July 4th dessert. No matter how you choose to decorate it, the brownie flag stack is a must-have addition to your menu. It's like a little slice of America!

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Strawberry Shortcake Skewers

When it comes to Fourth of July desserts, there's nothing quite like the refreshing sweetness of a strawberry shortcake. But why settle for the same old cake when you can shake things up with these festive and fun strawberry shortcake skewers?

Independence strawberry shortcake dessertIndependence strawberry shortcake dessert
Instagram via @chewy_and_pola

To start, gather your ingredients: fresh strawberries, cubes of angel food cake, and dollops of whipped cream. Then, thread them onto skewers in alternating layers for a colorful and tasty treat. Consider adding blueberries or raspberries for a patriotic touch, or drizzling them with chocolate sauce for an extra indulgent twist!

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Blueberry and Lemon Bundt Cake

This cake is a refreshing twist on the classic lemon cake, with juicy blueberries adding a pop of color and sweetness. It's perfect for Independence Day, or even just those hot summer days when you need a dessert that's cool and refreshing.

Blueberry Lemon Bundt CakeBlueberry Lemon Bundt Cake
Instagram via @cookednbakedwithlove

But don't worry, this cake doesn't sacrifice any of the indulgence of a traditional baked good. The moist, buttery crumb is perfectly complemented by the tangy lemon glaze, making for a luxurious dessert perfect for July 4th. Trust us, everyone will be coming back for seconds (and maybe even thirds - we won't judge!).

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Americana Ice Cream Sandwiches

These patriotic ice cream sandwiches are the perfect dessert for your Independence Day festivities. First, start with your favorite cookie recipe. We recommend something simple like sugar cookies, but feel free to get creative with flavors like chocolate chip or snickerdoodle.

American ice cream sandwichesAmerican ice cream sandwiches
Instagram via @kimberlybbuchanan

Then, whip up a batch of vanilla ice cream and dye it red and blue with food coloring to create a festive swirl effect. Once your cookies and ice cream are ready, it's time to assemble! Simply place a scoop of each color onto one cookie, then top with another cookie to create a deliciously dreamy sandwich.

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Yankee Doodle Donuts

When it comes to celebrating Independence Day, nothing says "I'm proud to be an American" quite like these American flag donuts. Plus, they're not complicated to make! Start by mixing cake batter and dividing into three bowls. Dye one blue, one red, and leave the other untouched.

Independence theme USA donutsIndependence theme USA donuts
Instagram via @highoctanecafe

Fill donut molds with alternating layers of blue and white batter. Bake and let cool, then glaze with a mixture of powdered sugar and milk. Dye the glaze red, white, and blue, and dip each donut into each color to create the flag design. And there you have it - a dessert that's as delicious as it is patriotic.

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July 4th Jell-O Shots

Looking for a fun and fruity way to raise a glass to Uncle Sam this Fourth of July? Enter the red, white, and blue Jell-O shot. It's like a fireworks show in your mouth - with each layer representing our nation's colors. Not to mention, they're the perfect size for a quick and easy pick-me-up during your Independence Day celebrations.

July 4th jello shotsJuly 4th jello shots
Instagram via @amy_hoop_chic

To make these boozy bites, all you need to do is mix strawberry and blue raspberry Jell-O with unflavored gelatin separately. Then pour the strawberry Jell-O into shot glasses and let it set. Next, add a layer of condensed milk and vodka, then top with the blue raspberry Jell-O, and chill until set!

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Patriotic Rice Krispie Treats

These gooey and chewy treats are a classic favorite that everyone loves, but with a little twist - they're dressed up in red, white, and blue to show off your American pride. To make them, all you'll need is some Rice Krispies cereal, marshmallows, butter, food coloring in red and blue, and a little bit of imagination.

July 4th rice krispiesJuly 4th rice krispies
Instagram via @tarnishedtinker

Prepare the mixture according to the instructions on the box, separate into three bowls, and dye them red, white, and blue! You can also drizzle some white chocolate on top and scatter some colorful sprinkles over the treats. Or, try cutting out star shapes using a cookie cutter to really make them stand out. Get creative with them!

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All-Star Apple Pie

What's more American than apple pie, you ask? Mini apple pies with star-shaped crusts, that's what! These adorable little pies are perfect for any Fourth of July celebration. They're like a little slice of Americana in your mouth, with their sweet and tangy filling and patriotic star-shaped crusts.

July 4th apple pieJuly 4th apple pie
Instagram via @astghik.margaryan

To make this star-spangled dessert, use a star-shaped cookie cutter to cut out a bunch of stars from the dough. Place them on top of your apple pie filling, and bake as usual. And don't be afraid to get creative with your toppings. Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or some red and blue sprinkles on top for an extra pop of color!

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Sprinkled Strawberries

These little bites of heaven are not only delicious, but they're also a feast for the eyes. The sweetness of the strawberries pairs perfectly with the chocolate coating, while the red, white, and blue sprinkles give them a festive flair. To make them, dip each strawberry in melted chocolate, making sure to cover it completely.

Independence Day chocolate strawberriesIndependence Day chocolate strawberries
Instagram via @nenastrawberries

Then, add some red, white, and blue sprinkles, or even go all out with some star-shaped sprinkles for an extra dose of Americana! Place the chocolate-dipped strawberries on a sheet of wax paper and let them set in the fridge for about 10 minutes. And voila - you've got yourself a sweet and festive Fourth of July dessert!

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Uncle Sam-Approved S'mores

This dessert takes everyone's favorite campfire treat and gives it a patriotic twist! To make it, start by preheating your oven to 450°F. Spread a layer of chocolate chips on the bottom of a cast-iron skillet, then top with a layer of mini marshmallows (bonus points if they're star-shaped).

July 4th s'mores dessertJuly 4th s'mores dessert
Instagram via @somethingbleuclt

Place the skillet in the oven and bake for about 5-7 minutes, or until the marshmallows are golden brown and gooey, and serve hot with graham crackers for dipping. So why not give it a try? It's the perfect way to end any Fourth of July celebration with a bang!

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Red, White, and Blue Cocktails

Why settle for boring beer or basic wine when you can have a red, white, and blue cocktail? To make it, start by filling your glass with ice. Next, pour in some blue Curacao liqueur and lemonade to create the bottom layer of your drink. Be careful not to mix it up too much - you want that vibrant blue color to shine through!

July 4th summer cocktailsJuly 4th summer cocktails
Instagram via @laurabz19

Next, add a layer of cranberry juice on top. This creates the red layer of your drink and adds a nice tartness to balance out the sweetness. Finally, top it all off with a frothy layer of vodka mixed with Sprite or 7-Up, and add some fresh berries or a little American flag to really show off your patriotic spirit. Cheers to America!

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Festive French Toast

Not only is this blueberry and cream cheese stuffed French toast absolutely scrumptious, but it's also a great way to show off your patriotic spirit. The red, white, and blue color scheme is perfect for a Fourth of July breakfast. To make it, start by cutting thick slices of bread and then cutting a pocket into each slice.

Independence day French toastIndependence day French toast
Instagram via @whatsinmybox_

Fill the pocket with a mixture of cream cheese and fresh blueberries. Next, dip the entire slice into an egg and milk mixture. Fry the French toast in a hot pan until golden brown on both sides, then serve with some fresh blueberries and a drizzle of maple syrup!

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Grand Old Grilled Peaches

When it comes to summer desserts, few things can beat the delicious combination of grilled peaches and ice cream. But why settle for plain old vanilla when you can add a patriotic twist? Introducing: grilled peaches with vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of blueberry sauce - the ultimate Fourth of July dessert!

Grilled Peaches July 4thGrilled Peaches July 4th
Instagram via @imgphotobooth

Grill some fresh, ripe peaches until they're slightly charred and caramelized, and then prepare the blueberry sauce. Simply simmer some fresh blueberries with sugar, lemon juice, and a little water until they break down into a sweet and tangy sauce. Once the fireworks start, grab a spoon and dig in!

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Flag-Waving Fruit Skewers

These fun and festive skewers are not only a delicious way to enjoy something sweet, but they're also a great way to get your daily dose of fruit. Plus, they're perfect for outdoor celebrations - easy to eat and easy to clean up! To make them, start by cutting up a variety of red, white, and blue fruits.

USA theme fruit skewersUSA theme fruit skewers
Instagram via @itstiffanyhyde

Next, thread the fruit onto skewers in whatever order you like. You can even add a little drizzle of honey or lime juice for some extra flavor. They're sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike, and they're a great way to show off your patriotic spirit while enjoying something delicious and nutritious.

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Party-Perfect Pretzels

These pretzels are not only delicious, but they're also super easy to make - all you need is a few ingredients. Start by melting some white chocolate in three bowls, and dye two of them red and white. Then, dip one end of each pretzel stick into the melted chocolate.

USA flag pretzel dessertUSA flag pretzel dessert
Instagram via @liza.sweets

Pop them onto a sheet of wax paper, and add some red, white, and blue sprinkles. Then let everything cool and harden completely before serving. These American flag pretzels are not only delicious, but they're also the perfect way to show off your patriotic pride!

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Summer Smoothie

Say hello to the red, white, and blue layered smoothie - the ultimate drink to blend your love for America with a healthy and delicious treat. This smoothie is as easy to make as it is beautiful. All you need are some classic red and blue fruits like strawberries and blueberries, along with yogurt, milk, and honey.

USA colors smoothie dessertUSA colors smoothie dessert
Instagram via @sammwepstein

Blend the strawberry layer with yogurt and honey, then do the same for the blueberry layer, and lastly, blend together the yogurt and milk for the white layer. Pour each layer into your glass, starting with the red, then the white, and finally the blue. Lastly, gently swirl the layers together to create that festive effect!

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Freedom-Flavored Fruit Tart

This red, white, and blue treat is perfect for July 4th celebrations, backyard barbecues, or any occasion where you want to show off your love for the good ole' USA. Start with a buttery crust, filled with a creamy vanilla pastry cream that's just the right amount of sweet. Then, top it off with red, white, and blue berries.

American flag fruit tartAmerican flag fruit tart
Instagram via @dolcesalatousa

The result? A dessert that's as visually stunning as it is tasty. And if you're feeling extra patriotic, why not top it off with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of edible glitter? It's the perfect way to take your dessert game to the next level!

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Cream Cheese-Filled Cupcakes

These strawberry and cream cheese-filled cupcakes are the ultimate dessert to add a pop of color and flavor to your Fourth of July celebration. They are sure to be a crowd-pleaser, even for those who claim they're not big on sweets. Plus, preparing them is even easier than you think!

cream cheese cupcakes USAcream cheese cupcakes USA
Instagram via @getloveatfirstbite

For the batter, mix flour, sugar, butter, eggs, baking powder, milk, and fresh strawberries. Then bake it in cupcake liners until golden brown, and mix cream cheese and chopped strawberries for the filling. Finally, remove center of cupcakes and fill with mixture. Sit back and watch your guests go wild over these patriotic treats!

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Liberty-Loving Chocolate Bars

This patriotic treat is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth while showing off your love for the land of the free. To create this candy bark, you'll need some white chocolate chips, red and blue food coloring. Melt the white chocolate and separate into three bowls. Then add blue food coloring to one and red to the other.

American flag chocolate dessertAmerican flag chocolate dessert
Instagram via @michellecurran77

Simply dip any of your favorite chocolatey treats in the dye, either entirely or halfway. If you choose to have all three colors per piece, you can even use a toothpick or a knife to swirl them together to create a marbled effect before they cool down. Finally, sprinkle on your choice of toppings, let it cool, and enjoy!

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Star-Spangled Sundae

Ice cream and July 4th go together like fireworks and a clear night sky. This patriotic ice cream sundae is easy to set up and even easier to devour. First, choose your ice cream flavors - vanilla, strawberry, and blueberry are the obvious choices for your red, white, and blue theme.

July 4th sundae dessertJuly 4th sundae dessert
Instagram via @you.can.sip.with.us

Next, gather your toppings. Think strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, whipped cream, hot fudge, caramel sauce, sprinkles, and even patriotic candy like red, white, and blue M&Ms. Let your guests go wild creating their own custom sundaes (bonus points if you provide fun and festive cups, spoons, and straws)!

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