Festive Fruited Cheesecake Flag

**Festive Fruited Cheesecake Flag**

*A Patriotic Dessert Masterpiece Perfect for Celebrations*

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### Introduction

When summer festivities roll around—especially the Fourth of July—few desserts make a statement like a **Festive Fruited Cheesecake Flag**. This vibrant, eye-catching treat combines the rich, creamy texture of classic cheesecake with the fresh, juicy sweetness of seasonal berries arranged in the shape of the American flag. It’s not only delicious but also a visually stunning centerpiece for your dessert table.

Whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue, attending a picnic, or simply celebrating with family, this cheesecake offers the perfect balance of elegance, festivity, and crowd-pleasing flavor. Below, you'll find a comprehensive, step-by-step guide to creating this beautiful and patriotic dessert that will earn you plenty of compliments—and second helpings!

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### Ingredients

#### For the Crust:

* 2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 14 full crackers)

* 2 tablespoons granulated sugar

* ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

#### For the Cheesecake Filling:

* 3 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened

* 1 cup granulated sugar

* 3 large eggs

* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

* ½ cup sour cream

* 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

* Zest of 1 lemon (optional, for a citrusy touch)

#### For the Topping:

* 1 cup fresh blueberries

* 1½ cups sliced fresh strawberries

* 1 cup whipped cream or whipped topping (for "stripes")

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### Instructions

#### Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. **Preheat your oven** to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.

2. In a medium bowl, **combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter**. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated and resemble wet sand.

3. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the baking dish to form an even crust layer. Use the bottom of a glass or measuring cup to pack it tightly.

4. **Bake the crust for 10 minutes**, then remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly while preparing the filling.

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#### Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the **cream cheese** until smooth and creamy. This step is crucial for a lump-free texture.

2. Add the **sugar** and beat until well incorporated. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.

3. Add the **eggs one at a time**, beating on low speed after each addition to avoid over-mixing.

4. Mix in the **vanilla extract**, **sour cream**, **flour**, and **lemon zest** (if using). Beat just until everything is well combined and silky smooth.

5. Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust and **smooth the top with a spatula**.

6. Bake for **35–40 minutes**, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly. Avoid overbaking, as the cheesecake will continue to set as it cools.

7. Turn off the oven, crack the oven door, and let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour. Then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.

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#### Step 3: Assemble the Fruited Flag Topping

1. Once the cheesecake is fully chilled, remove it from the refrigerator and gently **spread whipped cream in five even horizontal rows** across the cake, leaving space in between for the strawberry stripes.

2. In the upper left corner, **create a rectangle of blueberries**—about 5 rows by 6 rows—to represent the stars section of the flag.

3. Slice the strawberries lengthwise and lay them out in the spaces between the whipped cream rows to form red “stripes.” Arrange them in horizontal lines for a clean flag effect.

4. Optionally, pipe small whipped cream stars over the blueberry section to resemble stars.

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### Tips for Success

* **Use room temperature ingredients**: This ensures a smooth, creamy filling and prevents lumps in your cheesecake.

* **Don’t overmix** the filling: Overmixing can incorporate too much air and lead to cracks.

* **Chill thoroughly**: The longer the cheesecake chills, the better the texture and flavor. Overnight is ideal.

* **Plan ahead**: This dessert can be made up to two days in advance and decorated just before serving.

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### Serving Suggestions

* Slice with a sharp knife dipped in hot water for clean cuts.

* Serve with additional whipped cream or a drizzle of berry coulis for added flair.

* Keep leftovers refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

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### Final Thoughts

The **Festive Fruited Cheesecake Flag** is more than just a dessert—it's a celebration on a plate. Creamy, tangy, and perfectly sweet, it brings together the flavors of summer and the spirit of celebration in every bite. With minimal effort and maximum visual impact, this cheesecake will surely become your go-to recipe for patriotic holidays and summer get-togethers.

Would you like a version of this recipe that’s gluten-free or no-bake?