Description

A technical triumph in sheet cake design, this patriotic dessert features a tender buttermilk sponge paired with a stable cream cheese frosting. Precision aeration and temperature control ensure a plush crumb that perfectly supports a decorative mosaic of fresh blueberries and raspberries.

Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, softened to 65°F
2 cups granulated sugar
3 large eggs, room temperature
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup buttermilk
8 oz full-fat brick cream cheese, room temperature
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (for frosting)
4 cups confectioners’ sugar
1 pint fresh blueberries, dried completely
2 pints fresh raspberries, dried completely

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Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch metal baking pan with flour-based spray.
Whisk together the flour, salt, and baking soda in a medium bowl and set aside.
In a stand mixer with a paddle attachment, cream the softened butter and sugar on medium speed for 5 minutes until pale and fluffy.
Add the vanilla, then incorporate eggs one at a time, beating thoroughly and scraping the sides of the bowl after each addition.
On low speed, add one-third of the flour mixture, then half of the buttermilk; repeat the process, ending with the final portion of flour.
Spread the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30–35 minutes until golden and a toothpick emerges clean.
Cool the cake entirely on a wire rack to prevent the frosting from melting upon application.
Prepare the frosting by beating cream cheese, butter, vanilla, and salt until light, then gradually whipping in confectioners’ sugar until fluffy.
Spread frosting over the cake, reserving a small portion for the stars; fill the upper left corner with blueberries and arrange raspberries in horizontal rows for stripes.

Notes

To prevent the fruit from bleeding into your pristine white frosting, wash the berries several hours in advance and allow them to air-dry completely on paper towels. Using a metal pan rather than glass is essential for achieving the sharp, even edges required for a professional sheet cake presentation.

Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 35 mins
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American