Description

This festive and refreshing dessert features a moist vanilla cake infused with vibrant strawberry gelatin for a beautiful marbled effect. Topped with light whipped cream and fresh berries arranged in an iconic flag pattern, it is the ultimate centerpiece for any patriotic summer gathering.

Ingredients

1 box vanilla cake mix
1 cup water
1/2 cup vegetable oil
3 large eggs
1 package (3 oz) strawberry gelatin mix
1 cup boiling water
1/2 cup cold water
8 oz container whipped topping (such as Cool Whip), thawed
1 cup fresh blueberries, washed and dried
1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced lengthwise

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Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350° F (175° C) and grease the bottom of a 9×13 inch cake pan.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, water, oil, and eggs; beat on medium speed for 2 minutes until smooth.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 24-29 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the cake cool for 15-20 minutes, then use a fork or the end of a wooden spoon to poke holes across the entire top of the cake, spaced about an inch apart.
In a small bowl, whisk the strawberry gelatin with 1 cup of boiling water until fully dissolved, then stir in 1/2 cup of cold water.
Slowly pour the gelatin mixture over the warm cake, making sure it fills all the poked holes.
Allow the cake to cool completely, then spread the whipped topping evenly over the top using a spatula.
Create the flag design by placing blueberries in a rectangular block in the top-left corner and arranging strawberry slices in horizontal rows for the stripes.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 3-4 hours to allow the gelatin to set and the flavors to meld before serving.

Notes

For the cleanest slices and best flavor infusion, ensure you use the end of a wooden spoon to get deep, wide holes that allow the strawberry mixture to create distinct ‘flavor tunnels’ within the crumb. If you are preparing this the day before, wait to add the fresh fruit until about an hour before serving to prevent any natural juices from bleeding into the white whipped topping.

Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American