Sweet treats that celebrate the patriotic spirit of Independence Day can run the gamut from the simple to the more refined, from tabletop fare to outdoor barbecues. And as varied are the offerings, so too are the occasions, from morning fetes to twilight extravaganzas. Being one that favors the more subtle and sublime when it comes to celebrations, I particularly love a recipe that can be prepped the day before and, like a chameleon, adapt to a variety of servings.

This Red, White & Blue Layered Fresh Cherry Cake is a tasty pound cake, dressed up two ways for a special occasion. The batter is subtly sweet and moist, made even more delicious with the addition of several layers of fresh Stemilt cherries.

And, best of all, it’s a sweet treat that can be prepped early… leaving loads of time for other patriotic pursuits. Need a little something to welcome breakfast revelers? How about something a little sweeter for lounging on the lawn? Or, perhaps a parfait best suits the day? Sliced on its own, drizzled with a lemony glaze, or layered with berries and the “créme” of your choice (whipped, ice, or cultured… as in yogurt)… this cake plays well with a variety of toppings.

This Red, White & Blue Layered Fresh Cherry Cake is a nice, subtly sweet welcome to breakfast takers. Sliced as thin or thick as you like and served along with some fresh Greek yogurt and blueberries, it’s a fitting nod to the flavor and color of the day.

Or, drizzle the whole thing with a wonderful lemon-infused icing for a sweeter dessert offering that makes this fruit-laced cake perfectly patriotic when dolloped with a little whipped topping that’s dotted with a few fresh blueberries to mimic our flag.

Or, if you’re feeling a bit more versatile, layer squares of this bread with your créme of choice and a few fresh blueberries for a charming red, white, and blue “pop” of fun.