The 4th of July is one of my favorite holidays. I love taking a trip with my family out to the lake to watch the dazzling sparks of color fly over my head and spread out across the night sky filled with “oohs” and “ahhs” from onlookers. I love playing with sparklers in the backyard, throwing pop pops on the ground and lighting up a few fountains and smoke bombs. Patriotic songs play as my family grills steak and baked beans, then lounges by the pool until it’s time for the fireworks show. Cooking is a hobby of mine, and desserts are my favorite to make for special occasions. Since 4th of July is coming up, I wanted to share a few of my favorite patriotic desserts to ring in this important holiday.
All American Cupcakes
This festive cupcake recipe doubles as a great way to show off your piping skills! It flawlessly incorporates our patriotic colors into a mini flag that is proudly displayed at the top of each chocolate cupcake. The beautiful colors and design are sure to look and taste delicious. The recipe only takes about an hour and is sure to be a crowd pleaser.
Patriotic Cake Pops
Show off your patriotic spirit with these yummy cake pops! Cake pops require only a few ingredients and are a great addition to any Independence Day party. The red, white and blue sprinkles add a nice pop of color against the solid white chocolate coating. I love cake pops because they’re a lighter dessert that is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Colonial Cookie Bars
If you’re looking for a dessert loaded with goodness in every bite, this one’s for you! These scrumptious bars are packed with Golden Oreo cookies, M&M’s candies, chocolate chips, peanuts, festive sprinkles and a white chocolate drizzle. These bars pack a flavor filled punch that will have you going back for more.
Red White & Blue Popsicles
These icy popsicles are the perfect treat to cool off with in the July heat. The three layers of watermelon, coconut and raspberry work together to give you a burst of fruity flavor. Popsicles are easy to prepare and worth the wait in the freezer. Kids and adults will be gathering around to grab a few of these refreshing ice pops for the holiday.
American Flag Fruit Tray
I wanted to be sure to include a healthier option to this list. You can’t go wrong with strawberries and blueberries during the summertime! A fruit tray is a great way to add color and a variety of delicious healthy foods to your party. I love this tray because it symbolizes the American flag through the snacks that are on it. You can substitute the white chocolate pretzels for banana slices if you want to make this dish even healthier.
Star Spangled Funfetti Cupcakes
I had to add another cupcake recipe because…who doesn’t love cupcakes?! This recipe is a two for one, because each dessert comes with cupcakes and red, white and blue colored M&Ms all tucked into a wine glass. This dish proudly shows off our American flag and love of our country through the colors and festive touches it displays. You can’t get more American than this glorious snack right here.
All of these 4th of July activities mentioned above make for a great weekend, but it’s not forgotten all of the sacrifices from great American men and women that allow us these freedoms and luxuries today. It’s a day to celebrate, but remember and honor all of those who served and fought for what we have. So enjoy the tasty desserts and dynamite fireworks, but take a moment to think about how blessed we are to live in America, land of the free and home of the brave.