5-Ingredient Oven Baked Independence Day Sweet: The Red, White, and Blue Dessert That Disappears First

Why This Recipe Is a Keeper

Before we dive into the method, here is why this Independence Day sweet will become a favorite.

Only 5 ingredients. Simple and affordable.
No pre-cooking. The lasagna noodles cook right in the dish.
One dish. Minimal cleanup.
Creamy and fruity. Rich, satisfying, and delicious.
Crowd-pleasing. Everyone loves creamy desserts.
Budget-friendly. Cream cheese, sugar, and jam are inexpensive.
Perfect for summer celebrations and potlucks.

Ingredients

Servings: 8

9 whole uncooked lasagna noodles
16 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 1/2 cups strawberry jam or preserves
2 cups milk

Ingredient Notes

Lasagna noodles: Use uncooked lasagna noodles.

Cream cheese: Use full-fat cream cheese. Soften it to room temperature.

Sugar: Adds sweetness.

Strawberry jam: Adds fruity flavor.

Milk: Thins the cream cheese mixture.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.

Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Mixture

In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, sugar, and milk until mostly smooth and pourable.

Step 3: Layer the Dessert

Spread a thin layer of the cream cheese mixture in the bottom of the dish. Arrange 3 whole uncooked lasagna noodles over it. Spoon some strawberry jam over the noodles.

Step 4: Repeat the Layers

Repeat the layers two more times, ending with the cream cheese mixture on top.

Step 5: Cover and Bake

Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Uncover and bake 10 to 15 minutes more, until the top is lightly set and the noodles are tender when pierced.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Let the dessert rest at least 20 minutes before slicing. Serve warm, or chill and top with fresh strawberries and blueberries if desired for a festive red, white, and blue finish.

How to Serve Independence Day Sweet

This creamy, fruity dessert is delicious on its own, but a few accompaniments make it even better.

With Fresh Berries: Top with strawberries and blueberries.

With Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream adds lightness.

With Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream is a classic pairing.

With Mint: Garnish with fresh mint leaves.

With Extra Jam: Serve with additional strawberry jam.

Variations & Tips

Make It with Raspberry Jam: Use raspberry jam instead of strawberry.

Make It with Peach Jam: Use peach jam for a different flavor.

Make It with Different Fruit: Add fresh blueberries between the layers.

Make It with Lemon: Add lemon zest to the cream cheese mixture.

Make It with Vanilla: Add vanilla extract.

Make It with Cinnamon: Add a pinch of cinnamon.

Make It with Nuts: Add chopped pecans or walnuts.

Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free lasagna noodles.

Make It Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cream cheese and milk.

Pro Tips for Absolute Success

Soften the cream cheese completely. This ensures a smooth mixture.

Spread the layers evenly. This ensures even cooking.

Cover tightly with foil. This traps the steam that cooks the noodles.

Let the dessert rest before serving. This allows it to set.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different jam?
Yes. Raspberry or peach jam can be used.

Can I use a different cream cheese?
Yes. Dairy-free cream cheese can be used.

Can I use a different milk?
Yes. Whole milk or half-and-half can be used.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Chill for up to 24 hours before serving.

Can I freeze this dessert?
Freezing is not recommended. The texture may change.

How long do leftovers last?
Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Why are my noodles not cooked?
They did not have enough liquid. Add more milk.

Why is my dessert runny?
It did not rest long enough. Let it set.

Can I add more fruit?
Yes. Add fresh berries between the layers.

Can I use a different pan?
Yes. Any oven-safe dish works.

The Beauty of Red, White, and Blue Desserts

There is something deeply satisfying about a creamy, fruity dessert that comes together with almost no effort. It is the kind of food that makes people happy. This Independence Day sweet is a celebration of all those things.

Keep cream cheese, sugar, jam, and milk in your pantry and fridge. Keep lasagna noodles in your pantry. This recipe is the reason why.

Recipe Card

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes covered, plus 10 to 15 minutes uncovered
Rest Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes
Yield: 8 servings