Berry American Flag Cake for 24 Servings

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.
2. Cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer until pale and fluffy.
3. Incorporate the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Alternate adding the dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, salt) with the buttermilk, mixing until just combined.
5. Stir in the vanilla extract, pour the batter into the prepared pan, and bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Allow the cake to cool completely on a wire rack for 2 hours to ensure frosting stability.
7. Beat the chilled cream cheese and softened butter together until smooth.
8. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla on low speed, then increase to high for 2 minutes until pale and airy. Stir in heavy cream if needed for consistency.
9. Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake using an offset spatula.
10. Arrange blueberries in the upper left corner to create the union/stars section.
11. Create red and white stripes across the remainder of the cake using sliced strawberries or raspberries, alternating with rows of frosting.