The Fourth of July means family, fun and exceptional food. From sparkling cocktails, to hot-off-the-grill entrées, to festive desserts, this year, I’m going all out with the celebrations. Here are my favorite red, white and Thermador blue recipes for the ultimate Independence Day party.

Nothing says Fourth of July like the quintessential cocktail, and this exceptional sip sets off all the fireworks. Aptly named, the Star Sparkler boasts a bold blue hue that perfectly embodies the theme of the holiday. Made from a delicious mix of Elderflower liqueur, champagne and berry garish, it’s the ultimate way to up your cocktail game this Fourth of July.

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If you’re like me, your Fourth of July festivities must include burgers, and one of my favorite recipes is a true crowd-pleaser. The dish that always wins big with adults and kids alike is a Spicy Apple-Pork Burger with Apple Relish and Secret Sauce. Made from ground pork and finely diced apple and flavored with a zesty mustard, cilantro and chipotle sour cream-mayonnaise sauce, this delicious dish packs a powerful punch. You can prepare in advance in the oven or freshly grill on party-day, however my favorite way to prepare is with the Thermador Liberty™ Induction Cooktop. With the ability to accommodate teppanyaki grills measuring up to 16 inches long, your burger will be grilled to perfection.

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For a sweeter selection, I have two festive favorites: Lemon Chiffon Berry Layered Cake and Blueberry Sangria Pops. Bright and layered with fresh summer berries, the Lemon Chiffon recipe boasts fresh grated lemon zest, sliced strawberries, ripe raspberries and blueberries and a cream cheese frosting. It’s the perfect way to top off your Fourth of July fun.

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For a grownup sweet that can’t be beat, I turn to Blueberry Sangria Pops. With an abundance of leftover blueberries from my Lemon Chiffon cake, I add white wine, cognac, water and fresh lemon juice for a flavorful frozen treat. I turn to my Thermador Built-In Freezer Column for best freezing results, and if I’m busy entertaining outside of the kitchen, my Thermador Under Counter Combo Drawer Refrigerator and Freezer does just the trick keeping my pops perfectly frozen and easily accessible until serving time. With a festive star shape, these party pops will get your guests in the Fourth of July spirit.

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How will you be celebrating the Fourth of July this year? Give my favorite selections a try and check out the full recipes below. Share your thoughts with us in the comments or on our social channels: www.facebook.com/thermador, @ThermadorHome and @Thermador.

 

Star Sparkler Cocktail

1.5oz Elderflower liqueur
2oz Champagne
2oz Clear Soda
Berry Garish

Spicy Apple-Pork Burgers with Apple Relish and Secret Sauce

Lemon Chiffon Berry Layered Cake

Blueberry Sangria Pops