A Sweet Celebration: Red, White, & Blue Berry Shortcake for the 4th of July

There’s something special about gathering in the kitchen with our families, flour on the counter, little hands helping, and the aroma of something sweet filling the home. This 4th of July, celebrate not only our nation’s independence but also the simple joys of togetherness with this Red, White, and Blue Berry Shortcake, a family-friendly treat bursting with strawberries, blueberries, and fresh whipped cream.

As we bake, laugh, and enjoy this festive dessert, let’s also take a moment to reflect on the true blessings of freedom  - not only the liberty we enjoy as Americans but the ultimate freedom found in Christ.

“Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord, the people He has chosen as His own inheritance.” — Psalm 33:12 (NKJV)

Red, White & Blue Berry Shortcake Recipe

Ingredients:

For the Shortcake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup cold butter, cubed
• 3/4 cup buttermilk (plus extra if needed)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Topping:

• 1 pint fresh strawberries (or raspberries), hulled and sliced
• 1 pint fresh blueberries
• 2 tablespoons sugar (for berries)
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Berries
In a medium bowl, toss sliced strawberries and blueberries with 2 tablespoons of sugar. Let them sit for about 15-20 minutes to get nice and juicy.

2. Make the Shortcake
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, sugar, and salt.

Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Add the buttermilk and vanilla, stirring just until combined. If the dough feels too dry, add a tablespoon of buttermilk at a time.

Turn the dough onto a floured surface, gently pat it to about 1-inch thickness, and cut into rounds using a biscuit cutter or glass.

Place shortcakes on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.

3. Whip the Cream
In a cold mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until soft peaks form.

4. Assemble the Treats
Slice the shortcakes in half, spoon on the juicy strawberries and blueberries, and top with a generous dollop of whipped cream. Add more berries on top for extra patriotic flair!

A Dessert That Honors Freedom

This simple, joyful recipe invites little hands into the process - measuring, mixing, tasting along the way - because freedom is sweetest when shared across generations.

As you gather to celebrate, remember that the liberties we enjoy are gifts from God, stewarded by generations of brave men and women who understood that true freedom flows from truth.

“It is for freedom that Christ has set us free.” — Galatians 5:1 (NKJV)

“We have no government armed with power capable of contending with human passions unbridled by morality and religion.” — John Adams

This Independence Day, may your home be filled with gratitude, good food, and hearts turned toward the One who gives true liberty.

Happy 4th of July from our family to yours!
If you try this recipe, tag us and share your festive creations — we’d love to see your little patriots in action! 🇺🇸