Ingredients:

• 1 box white cake mix (dry)
• Water as per cake mix instructions
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 4 eggs
• 1 package blue gelatin powder (berry blue or blue raspberry Jell-O)
• 1 package red gelatin powder (strawberry or raspberry Jell-O)
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 container whipped cream topping (Cool Whip)
• Fresh blueberries
• Fresh strawberries or raspberries
• Red, white, and blue sprinkles (optional)

Step-By-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare Cake Batter:

   • Preheat the oven to the temperature recommended on the cake mix box.
   • In a large bowl, combine the white cake mix, water, sour cream, vegetable oil, and eggs. Mix until smooth and well combined.
   • Divide the batter into three equal portions.
   • Leave one portion plain. Mix the second portion with blue gelatin powder until well incorporated. Mix the third portion with red gelatin powder until well incorporated.

1. Bake Cake Layers:

   • Pour each colored batter into separate greased and floured cake pans (or follow the pan preparation instructions on the cake mix box).
   • Bake the cakes according to the instructions on the cake mix box, or continue baking until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. After baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool completely on wire racks.

2. Prepare Frosting:

   • In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.
   • Gently fold in the whipped cream topping until well combined. This creates a light and creamy frosting.

3. Assemble Cake:

   • Place the plain cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand.
   • Spread a layer of the cream cheese whipped frosting evenly over the top of the plain cake layer.
   • Carefully place the blue gelatin cake layer on top of the frosting. Spread another layer of frosting evenly over the blue cake layer.
   • Finally, place the red gelatin cake layer on top of the blue cake layer. Cover the entire cake with the remaining frosting, ensuring an even and smooth finish.

4. Decorate Cake:

   • Arrange fresh blueberries on the top left corner of the cake to mimic the stars on the American flag.
   • Arrange sliced strawberries or raspberries in horizontal lines across the rest of the cake to resemble the stripes of the flag.
   • Optionally, sprinkle red, white, and blue sprinkles over the top of the cake for added decoration and color.

Directions:

• Preparation Time: Approximately 30 minutes
• Cooking Time: Approximately 30 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 1 hour, plus chilling time

Nutrition Facts (per serving):

• Calories: XXX
• Total Fat: XXg
• Saturated Fat: XXg
• Cholesterol: XXmg
• Sodium: XXXmg
• Total Carbohydrates: XXg
• Dietary Fiber: Xg
• Total Sugars: XXg
• Protein: Xg

Reviews:

“This cake was a favorite at our 4th of July picnic!The colors were vibrant and the flavors were deliciously balanced between sweet and tart. Definitely making it again next year!” – Sarah D.

Community Tips and Praise:

• Tip: “Make sure the cake layers are completely cooled before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.”
• Praise: “I loved how easy it was to follow this recipe, and the end result was both stunning and tasty! Thank you for sharing!”

This Patriotic Picnic Cake is not only a stunning centerpiece for any Independence Day celebration but also a delicious treat that blends moist cake layers with a creamy, light frosting and fresh fruit decorations. Enjoy making this festive dessert with family and friends.