This fun cookie cake brings together red, white, and blue colors using yummy ingredients like buttery cookie dough and sweet frosting. It’s the perfect treat for your 4th of July celebrations!
Seriously, who can resist a cookie cake that looks like a flag? I love making this for gatherings, and it always disappears quickly. Just grab a slice and enjoy the festivities! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-purpose flour: This is a staple for the cookie cake’s structure. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you can try using a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend. Just keep an eye on the texture as it may vary.
Unsalted butter: Softened butter is essential for creaming with the sugars. If you need a dairy-free option, coconut oil or margarine works well. Just remember, they may alter the flavor slightly.
Granulated and brown sugar: I love the combination because the brown sugar adds a bit of moisture and chewiness. You can substitute with coconut sugar for a healthier option, but it may change the cake’s color.
Mini chocolate chips: They add sweetness and texture. If you’re avoiding chocolate, try using white chocolate chips or even colorful candy melts for a festive touch!
Frostings: You can easily make your own frosting with butter, powdered sugar, milk, and food coloring. I sometimes enjoy using cream cheese frosting for a tangy twist. Store-bought works great too for convenience!
How Do I Get the Perfect Spread of Cookie Dough?
Spreading the cookie dough evenly in the pan is crucial for even baking. Here’s how to do it smoothly:
- Use a spatula to scoop out the dough in sections. Start at the center and work your way to the edges.
- Wet your hands or spatula slightly to make it easier to pat the dough down without sticking.
- Make sure to fill in any gaps, aiming for an even layer across the entire pan for uniform baking.
Taking the time to spread the dough evenly will help avoid undercooked spots and give you a beautiful cookie cake!
Easy 4th of July Red White and Blue Cookie Cake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Basic Ingredients:
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cups mini chocolate chips
For Decoration:
- Red, white, and blue colored frostings (store-bought or homemade)
- Red and blue edible sprinkles (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful cookie cake will take about 15 minutes to prep and 25-30 minutes to bake. Don’t forget to let it cool completely before decorating, which might take an additional hour. So, in total, you’ll need around 2 hours to make this festive dessert from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Oven and Pan:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating, line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it with some butter or oil. This will help the cookie cake slide out easily later!
2. Mixing Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and baking soda. This process ensures that the baking soda is evenly distributed throughout the flour. Set this mixture aside while you work on the wet ingredients.
3. Creaming the Butter and Sugars:
In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened butter with the granulated and brown sugars, as well as the salt until the mixture is light and fluffy. This may take around 2-3 minutes. It’s important to get this step right, as it gives your cookie cake a lovely texture!
4. Mixing in the Eggs and Vanilla:
Next, beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. After that, mix in the vanilla extract. This will smell amazing!
5. Combining Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Gradually add the flour mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing just until everything is combined. Be careful not to over-mix; a few flour streaks are okay!
6. Adding the Chocolate Chips:
Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips with a spatula or wooden spoon, making sure they spread evenly throughout the dough.
7. Spreading the Dough in the Pan:
Spread the cookie dough evenly into your prepared baking pan using a spatula. Make sure it reaches all the corners for an even bake.
8. Baking the Cookie Cake:
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake it for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the edges are golden brown, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the aroma fill your kitchen; it’s going to be delicious!
9. Cooling:
Once baked, take the cookie cake out of the oven and let it cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This might take about an hour, but it’s worth the wait!
10. Decorating Your Cookie Cake:
Once cooled, it’s time to make it festive! Use the red, white, and blue frosting to create fun designs either with piping bags or simply spread it on top. You can make star shapes and other fun designs. Feel free to sprinkle with extra red and blue edible sprinkles for that extra festive touch!
11. Serving:
Cut the cookie cake into squares and serve it at your 4th of July celebrations. Enjoy your colorful and delicious treat with family and friends!
This cookie cake features festive star decorations and a border of piped colored frosting dabs, perfect for celebrating Independence Day with a colorful and tasty treat!
FAQ for Easy 4th of July Red White and Blue Cookie Cake
Can I Use Different Types of Chocolate Chips?
Absolutely! While mini chocolate chips work great, feel free to use regular chocolate chips or even white chocolate chips for a festive touch. You can also mix in some M&Ms or colorful candy pieces to enhance the patriotic theme!
What If I Don’t Have Parchment Paper?
No worries! If you don’t have parchment paper, you can lightly grease the baking pan with cooking spray or butter. Just make sure to spread it evenly to avoid sticking.
Can I Make This Cookie Cake Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! You can bake the cookie cake a day in advance and store it at room temperature, covered with plastic wrap to keep it fresh. Just decorate it on the day you’re serving for the best presentation!
How Do I Store Leftover Cookie Cake?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer, you can also refrigerate it, but make sure to bring it back to room temperature before serving to enhance the flavor and texture.
