Fruit Pizza

Fruit Pizza

When the sun is shining and the temperatures rise, there’s nothing quite like a refreshing treat to satisfy your sweet tooth, which is why I absolutely adore making Fruit Pizza. Picture this: a warm, soft cookie crust topped with a rich, creamy layer of frosting and bursting with vibrant, fresh fruits. I remember the first time I made this delightful dessert for a summer gathering with friends. The laughter and chatter filled the air as we savored each slice, and it quickly became a staple at our summer celebrations. Since then, I’ve perfected my technique, and I can confidently say that this Fruit Pizza is always the crowd-pleaser.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
27 mins
Prep Time:
15 mins
Cook Time:
12 mins
Difficulty:
Medium
Calories:
220 kcal
Protein:
3 g
Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
Fat:
10 g
Tools Used:
Oven, Baking Sheet, Frying Pan, Whisk, Mixing Bowl, Peeler, Chef’s Knife

Why Try This Fruit Pizza

Bright and Colorful Presentation

One of the standout features of Fruit Pizza is its bright and colorful presentation. The vibrant hues of fresh fruit not only make it visually appealing, but they also promise a burst of flavor in every bite. I love how appealing it looks on a summer picnic table, catching the eye of everyone around!

Endless Customization

Fruit Pizza is incredibly versatile. You can mix and match your favorite fruits based on what’s in season or what you have on hand. Strawberries, kiwis, blueberries, and mandarin oranges are just some of the delicious options. I often let my kids choose the toppings, and it turns into a fun family activity as we get creative with our designs!

Simple and Easy to Prepare

This dessert is surprisingly simple to prepare. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a stunning presentation without the need for advanced baking skills. The cookie crust forms a perfect base, and the creamy frosting complements the fresh fruit beautifully. I promise you’ll be surprised by how easy it is to whip up this delightful treat!

A Sweet and Creamy Delight

The combination of textures in Fruit Pizza is simply delightful. The soft cookie crust contrasts perfectly with the creamy frosting and the juicy fruit. Each bite is a heavenly experience, making it an unforgettable dessert that appeals to both kids and adults alike. I love the way the creamy layer enhances the freshness of the fruit!

Perfect for Any Occasion

You can serve Fruit Pizza on various occasions, from birthday parties to family gatherings or even casual summer evenings. I’ve brought this dessert to potlucks, and it’s always met with rave reviews. It’s a wonderful way to celebrate the season while enjoying a light, sweet treat!

Healthier Alternative

Finally, while Fruit Pizza is a dessert, it’s also a healthier alternative to many traditional sweets. The fresh fruits provide vitamins and nutrients, and you have control over the amount of sugar in your cookie base and frosting. Making it at home lets you make it as healthy or indulgent as you wish!

What to Buy for Fruit Pizza

Fruit Pizza

Creating a delicious Fruit Pizza begins with choosing the right ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in bringing this delightful dessert to life. The combination of the cookie base, smooth frosting, and fresh fruit creates a perfect harmony of flavors and textures that you simply can’t resist.

  • 1 â…” cups all purpose flour – This forms the base of our cookie, giving it that soft and chewy texture that everyone loves.
  • ½ tsp baking powder – This helps the cookie rise and provides a lightness to the crust.
  • ¼ tsp salt – A pinch of salt balances the sweetness of the cookie and enhances the overall flavor.
  • ¾ cup sugar – Sweetness is key here, contributing to the cookie’s delicious flavor.
  • 10 tbsp butter, room temperature – Butter adds richness and moisture, making our crust tender.
  • 1 large egg, room temperature – The egg binds everything together while adding moisture.
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract – This gives the cookie a wonderful aromatic flavor that complements the sweetness.
  • 1 tsp almond extract – A hint of almond enhances the dessert’s taste profile, making it even more delightful.
  • 8 oz cream cheese, room temperature – Essential for our creamy frosting, lending a smooth and tangy flavor.
  • â…“ cup sugar – Additional sugar sweetens the frosting to balance the tang of the cream cheese.
  • ½ tsp vanilla extract – A touch of vanilla in the frosting ties all the flavors together.
  • 2 cups strawberries, sliced – These add a bright color and fresh taste to the top of the pizza.
  • 2 kiwi, peeled and sliced – Kiwi adds a unique flavor and beautiful green color.
  • â…“ cup blueberries – Blueberries provide a pop of color and sweetness.
  • ¼ cup mandarin oranges, drained – These add a hint of citrus that brightens the whole dish.

Making Fruit Pizza

Fruit Pizza

Making a Fruit Pizza is a delightful experience that brings joy to both the maker and the eater. The steps are straightforward, and before you know it, you’ll have a beautiful dessert that showcases your creativity! Let’s dive into the process!

  1. First, preheat your oven to 350° F. This is crucial for ensuring your cookie bakes evenly. While your oven warms up, lightly coat a 12″ pizza pan (without holes on the bottom) with non-stick baking spray to prevent sticking.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together 1 ⅔ cups all purpose flour, ½ tsp baking powder, and ¼ tsp salt. This mixture ensures an even distribution of the dry ingredients, which is essential for a perfectly baked cookie crust.
  3. In another bowl, beat together ¾ cup sugar and 10 tbsp butter until light and fluffy. The key here is to incorporate air into the mixture, which will help create a light texture in your cookie. Add in 1 large egg, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and 1 tsp almond extract, then mix until combined. Don’t forget to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed for an even blend!
  4. Now, gradually add in the dry mixture from the first bowl. Beat until a soft cookie dough forms. You want the dough to be soft but not sticky. Press the cookie dough out into the prepared pizza pan, making sure to create an even layer.
  5. Bake in the preheated oven for about 11 to 13 minutes or until the center is set and lightly golden. Keep an eye on it to avoid overbaking. Once done, let it cool completely on a wire rack. This cooling step is essential for a firm base that can hold the toppings.
  6. While the cookie crust cools, prepare the frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat together 8 oz cream cheese, ⅓ cup sugar, and ½ tsp vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. This frosting will be the luxurious base for your fresh fruits.
  7. Once the cookie crust has cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. Make sure to cover every inch as this will enhance the flavor profile of your Fruit Pizza.
  8. Now comes the fun part: arranging the fresh fruit! Take your 2 cups strawberries, 2 kiwi, ⅓ cup blueberries, and ¼ cup mandarin oranges and place them over the frosting in a beautiful pattern. Be as creative as you like!
  9. If you’d like an extra shine, mix 1 tsp of honey with a little water to create a glaze. Brush it over the fruits for a lovely finish that enhances their color and makes them look enticing.
  10. Finally, keep your Fruit Pizza refrigerated until you’re ready to serve. This dessert is best enjoyed chilled, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. Enjoy every slice!

Things Worth Knowing

  • Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensuring that your butter, egg, and cream cheese are at room temperature helps them blend better, resulting in a smoother frosting and a fluffier cookie.
  • Mix Fruits Wisely: Choose a variety of fruits with different textures and flavors to create a more interesting and delicious topping.
  • Check for Doneness: When baking the cookie crust, the edges should be lightly golden while the center should be set. It should not be jiggly in the middle.
  • Chill Before Serving: Allowing the Fruit Pizza to chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving helps the frosting set and keeps the fruit fresh.

Ways to Adapt This Recipe

Fruit Pizza

There are countless ways to customize your Fruit Pizza to suit your preferences! Here are some fun ideas you can consider:

  • Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days to keep the crust fresh and prevent the fruits from wilting.
  • Freezing: You can freeze the cookie crust before adding the frosting and fruit. Just wrap it tightly and freeze for up to a month.
  • Fruit Variations: Experiment with different seasonal fruits to keep things interesting. Peaches, raspberries, and even bananas work great!
  • Frosting Alternatives: Try using a whipped cream topping or yogurt instead of cream cheese for a lighter version.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make this recipe gluten-friendly.

Perfect Pairings for Fruit Pizza

Pairing your Fruit Pizza with the right accompaniments can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some ideas to consider:

  • Refreshing Beverages: Serve with a cold glass of lemonade or iced tea for a refreshing complement to the sweetness of the pizza.
  • Summer Picnics: This dessert is perfect for outdoor gatherings or picnics; it’s easy to transport and sure to impress your guests.
  • Barbecues: Enjoy Fruit Pizza as a light dessert after a hearty barbecue. Its sweetness and freshness contrast beautifully with savory grilled dishes.
  • Seasonal Events: Perfect for summer birthdays, potlucks, or holiday gatherings, this dessert is versatile for various occasions.
  • Storage Tips: Keep leftover Fruit Pizza covered in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness and flavor for a few days.

FAQ

While fresh fruit is ideal for Fruit Pizza, you can certainly use frozen fruit in a pinch. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well to remove excess moisture, which can make your dessert soggy. Keep in mind that the texture of frozen fruit may differ slightly from fresh, so the presentation may vary as well.

If you prefer a thicker cookie crust for your Fruit Pizza, simply increase the amount of dough in the pan. You can double the amount of ingredients, or just add a bit more flour to your existing recipe. Adjust the baking time slightly to ensure that the center is fully cooked through while the edges don’t overbake.

The beauty of Fruit Pizza lies in its versatility. You can add toppings like nuts for crunch, chocolate drizzle for sweetness, or even a sprinkle of coconut for added flavor. Feel free to get creative with your toppings based on your preferences and seasonal availability!

Absolutely! You can bake the cookie crust in advance and store it in an airtight container for up to two days. Just make sure to frost it and add the fruit on the day you plan to serve it to keep everything fresh and beautiful.

Conclusion

The Fruit Pizza is a delightful dessert that not only looks beautiful but also tastes incredible, making it a perfect choice for any occasion. With its creamy frosting and fresh fruit, it’s always a hit with guests and family alike. I encourage you to try making this sweet treat at home; it’s easier than you might think and utterly rewarding!

Fruit Pizza

Fruit Pizza

Craving a refreshing dessert? This Fruit Pizza features a soft cookie crust topped with rich cream cheese frosting and vibrant fruits. It's a delightful treat perfect for summer gatherings!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 27 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Desserts
Cuisine: American
Calories: 220

Ingredients
  

  • 1 â…” cups all purpose flour
  • ½ tsp baking powder
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • ¾ cups sugar
  • 10 tbsp butter, room temperature
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tsp almond extract
  • 8 oz cream cheese, room temperature
  • â…“ cup sugar
  • ½ tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 cups strawberries, sliced
  • 2 kiwi kiwi, peeled and sliced
  • â…“ cup blueberries
  • ¼ cup mandarin oranges, drained

Equipment

  • Oven
  • Baking Sheet
  • Frying Pan
  • Whisk
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Peeler
  • Chef's Knife

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 350° F. Lightly coat a 12" pizza pan (without holes on the bottom) with non-stick baking spray.
  2. Whisk together 1 ⅔ cups all purpose flour, ½ tsp baking powder, and ¼ tsp salt in a small bowl and set aside.
  3. In another bowl beat ¾ cup sugar and 10 tbsp butter until light and fluffy, then add in 1 large egg, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and 1 tsp almond extract and beat until combined. Scrap down sides of bowl as needed.
  4. Add in the dry ingredients and beat until a soft cookie dough forms. Press the cookie dough out into the prepared pizza pan and bake for 11 to 13 minutes, until the center is set. Let cool completely on a wire rack.
  5. Beat 8 oz cream cheese, ⅓ cup sugar, and ½ tsp vanilla extract with a mixer until smooth and creamy. Spread evenly over the top of the cooled cookie crust.
  6. Arrange the fresh fruit all over the top of the frosting in a pattern that you like.
  7. Keep refrigerated until ready to serve. Enjoy!

Notes

  • Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days to keep the crust fresh and prevent the fruits from wilting.
  • Freezing: You can freeze the cookie crust before adding the frosting and fruit. Just wrap it tightly and freeze for up to a month.
  • Fruit Variations: Experiment with different seasonal fruits to keep things interesting. Peaches, raspberries, and even bananas work great!
  • Frosting Alternatives: Try using a whipped cream topping or yogurt instead of cream cheese for a lighter version.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make this recipe gluten-friendly.

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