Proper Prospective

Memorial Day Cookout Ideas Deserts

Red, White, and Blue Trifle for Memorial Day

Ingredients:

  • 1 prepared pound cake (store-bought or homemade), cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
  • 1 pint fresh blueberries
  • 1 pint fresh raspberries
  • 2 cups heavy whipping cream
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Optional: Fresh mint leaves for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Whipped Cream:
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract.
  • Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, whip the cream on medium-high speed until soft peaks form. Set aside.
  1. Layer the Trifle:
  • In a trifle bowl or large glass serving dish, begin layering the ingredients.
  • Start with a layer of pound cake cubes at the bottom.
  • Add a layer of whipped cream on top of the pound cake, spreading it evenly.
  • Add a layer of strawberries and raspberries, followed by a layer of blueberries.
  • Repeat the layers (pound cake, whipped cream, and berries) until the dish is full, finishing with a layer of whipped cream on top.
  1. Decorate:
  • Arrange additional berries (strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries) on top in a decorative pattern.
  • Optionally, garnish with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color.
  1. Chill and Serve:
  • Cover the trifle with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
  • Serve chilled and enjoy your festive Memorial Day dessert!

This red, white, and blue trifle is a light, refreshing, and patriotic dessert perfect for Memorial Day celebrations!

Memorial Day S’mores Bar with Various Toppings

Ingredients:

  • Graham crackers
  • Marshmallows (regular or flavored)
  • Chocolate bars (milk, dark, or white chocolate)
  • Alternate base options: cookies, waffles, or pretzels

Topping Ideas:

  • Peanut butter cups
  • Caramel squares or sauce
  • Fresh fruit: strawberries, bananas, raspberries
  • Nutella or other chocolate spreads
  • Candy pieces: M&Ms, Reese’s Pieces, crushed candy bars
  • Shredded coconut
  • Crushed nuts: almonds, peanuts, or pecans
  • Sprinkles
  • Sea salt
  • Mini marshmallows
  • Jelly or jam

Instructions:

  1. Set Up Your S’mores Bar: Arrange all ingredients and toppings on a table or countertop for easy access. Separate the toppings into bowls or plates for convenience.
  2. Toast Marshmallows: Use a fire pit, grill, or even a kitchen torch to toast marshmallows to your desired level of gooeyness.
  3. Build Your S’mores: Start with a graham cracker or alternate base, add a piece of chocolate or spread, place your toasted marshmallow on top, and finish with another cracker or base.
  4. Customize with Toppings: Sprinkle or drizzle your favorite toppings over the marshmallow or chocolate layer before closing your s’more.
  5. Serve and Enjoy: Let everyone have fun creating their own customized s’more combinations. It’s all about creativity!

Perfect for Memorial Day gatherings, this DIY S’mores Bar is a crowd-pleaser for kids and adults alike!

Watermelon Salad Recipe

Ingredients:

  • 4 cups watermelon, cubed and chilled
  • 1 cup cucumber, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, combine the watermelon cubes, cucumber slices, and chopped mint leaves.
  2. Drizzle the olive oil over the salad and gently toss to combine.
  3. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese on top.
  4. (Optional) Drizzle balsamic glaze over the salad for added flavor.
  5. Season with a pinch of salt and black pepper to taste.
  6. Serve immediately and enjoy this refreshing summer dish!

Memorial Day Sugar Cookies Recipe

Ingredients:

  • 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
  • 1 egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ teaspoon almond extract (optional)
  • Red, white, and blue food coloring or sprinkles (for decoration)
  • Royal icing or store-bought frosting (optional, for decorating)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
  2. Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and baking powder. Set aside.
  3. Cream butter and sugar: In a large bowl, use a mixer to cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
  4. Add wet ingredients: Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using). Mix until well combined.
  5. Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.
  6. Chill the dough: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30 minutes. This helps the dough become easier to work with.
  7. Roll and cut: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about ¼-inch thickness. Use star-shaped or patriotic-themed cookie cutters to cut out your cookies.
  8. Bake: Place cookies on prepared baking sheets, leaving some space between them. Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 2 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
  9. Decorate: Once the cookies are completely cool, decorate with royal icing, frosting, or sprinkles in red, white, and blue. You can also mix food coloring into the icing to create patriotic designs.
  10. Serve and enjoy: Arrange your festive cookies on a platter and enjoy with family and friends during your Memorial Day celebration!

Tips:

  • If you want extra festive cookies, add red, white, and blue sprinkles to the dough before baking.
  • Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.