Step 1: Make the Crust

1. If using whole graham crackers, place them in a food processor and process into fine crumbs (about 2 ¼ cups). If using pre-crushed crumbs, skip this step.

2. In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, ⅓ cup sugar, and ⅔ cup softened butter until well combined.

3. Press the mixture evenly into an ungreased 9×13-inch pan using your hands or the back of a spoon to form a flat crust.

   • Tip: Press firmly but not too hard to avoid a dense crust. Use a measuring cup for an even surface.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

1. In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat 24 oz. softened cream cheese and ½ cup sugar until smooth and creamy (about 2 minutes).

2. Add ¼ cup sour cream and beat until combined.

3. Add 3 tbsp lemon juice and beat until fully mixed. Set the bowl aside.

   • Tip: Scrape the bowl often to ensure no lumps. Mix on medium speed to avoid overbeating.

Step 3: Whip the Cream

1. In a separate chilled bowl, combine 1 ¼ cups heavy whipping cream, ¾ cup powdered sugar, and 1 tbsp vanilla extract.

2. Beat with an electric mixer on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form (about 3-4 minutes).

   • Tip: Chill the bowl and whisk in the fridge for 10 minutes before whipping for faster results. Stop when peaks hold their shape.

Step 4: Combine and Spread

1. Use a spatula to gently fold the whipped cream mixture into the cream cheese mixture until no streaks remain.

2. Spread the combined filling evenly over the graham cracker crust in the 9×13 pan.

   • Tip: Fold gently to keep the mixture light and airy. Use an offset spatula for a smooth top.

Step 5: Plan the Flag Design

1. Use a toothpick to lightly sketch the American flag design on the cheesecake surface: a rectangle in the top left corner for the blue field and horizontal stripes for the rest.

   • Tip: Sketch lightly to avoid deep marks. Plan for about a 4×5-inch blue field and 7-9 stripes.

Step 6: Chill the Cheesecake

1. Cover the pan with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for 4-6 hours, or overnight, to set the cheesecake.

   • Tip: Chilling overnight gives the best texture. Ensure the pan is level in the fridge.

Step 7: Decorate and Serve

1. Before serving, spoon 8 oz. blueberry pie filling into the top left corner to fill the blue field of the flag.

2. Spoon 8 oz. cherry pie filling in horizontal stripes to create the red stripes, leaving spaces for the white cheesecake to show through.

3. Sprinkle edible star sprinkles over the blueberry section to mimic stars.

4. Slice into squares and serve chilled.

   • Tip: Use a small spoon to place fillings precisely. Wipe the knife between cuts for clean slices.