Canadian Flag Cake: A Patriotic Dessert

Name: Canadian Flag Cake: A Patriotic Dessert
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 115 min
Yield: 12 slices
Cuisine: Canadian
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (spooned and levelled); 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter (room temperature); 3 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup milk; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 225 grams cream cheese (softened); 1/2 cup unsalted butter (room temperature); 4 cups powdered sugar (sifted); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 500 grams fresh strawberries (hulled and sliced); Red gel food colouring (as needed)

115 min 12 slices Medium

All Recipes

Celebrate Canada Day with a delicious Canadian flag cake, adorned in red and white.

Prep

30 min

Cook

25 min

Total

115 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

The Canadian Flag Cake is a vibrant and festive dessert perfect for celebrating Canada Day or any patriotic event. This cake captures the essence of the Canadian flag with its striking red and white colours, offering both visual appeal and delicious flavour. Our version of the Canadian Flag Cake combines a simple vanilla sponge with a rich cream cheese frosting. The red maple leaf is achieved using fresh strawberries, offering a natural and sweet contrast to the creamy topping. Ideal for family gatherings or celebrating with friends, this cake is as delightful to eat as it is to make. It's perfect for those who enjoy baking and want to showcase their Canadian pride in a sweet way.

Instructions

Prepare the Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan.

Pro tip: Ensure the butter coats all sides of the pan to prevent sticking.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

Pro tip: Room temperature butter incorporates air better, leading to a fluffier cake.

Combine Ingredients

Alternate adding the flour mixture and milk to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the flour. Mix until just combined.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the centre comes out clean.

Pro tip: Avoid opening the oven frequently to maintain a consistent temperature.

Cool and Frost

Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Meanwhile, prepare the frosting by beating cream cheese and butter until smooth, then gradually adding powdered sugar and vanilla.

Decorate the Cake

Spread a thin layer of frosting over the cooled cake. Use the strawberries to create a maple leaf design in the centre of the cake. Tint some frosting with red food colouring and pipe around the edges of the cake.

Pro tip: Chill the cake briefly to set the frosting before slicing.

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Tips & Tricks

Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easy mixing.
Use gel food colouring for vibrant red without altering texture.
Chill your cake for easier slicing and serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you make a Canadian flag cake?

To make a Canadian flag cake, bake a vanilla sponge in a 9x13 pan. Frost with cream cheese icing and decorate with strawberries to form a maple leaf.

What is the best way to decorate a Canadian flag cake?

The best way to decorate is by using fresh strawberries to create a maple leaf design on a smooth layer of white frosting.

Can I make a Canadian flag cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cake and prepare the frosting a day ahead. Assemble and decorate the cake just before serving.

How should I store a Canadian flag cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days to keep it fresh.

What occasion is best for serving a Canadian flag cake?

This cake is perfect for Canada Day celebrations, patriotic events, or any occasion where you want to showcase Canadian pride.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Canadian Flag Cake immediately after decorating for the freshest presentation. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a chilled glass of milk for a classic treat. To make ahead, prepare the cake layers and frosting up to a day in advance and store them separately in the refrigerator. Assemble and decorate just before serving. The cake can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

Nutrition per serving

350

Calories

Protein

16g

Fat

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