This colorful Fruit Pizza is a delightful and refreshing dessert perfect for any occasion. With a buttery sugar cookie crust, a smooth cream cheese frosting, and a variety of fresh fruits on top, this dessert is both fun and delicious!
Ingredients:
For the Sugar Cookie Crust:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Fruit Topping:
- 1 kiwi, peeled and sliced
- 1 cup strawberries, hulled and halved
- ½ cup blueberries
- ½ cup mandarin oranges
- ½ cup peaches, sliced
- 2 tablespoons apricot preserves (optional for glaze)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sugar Cookie Crust:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a round pizza pan. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
2. Make the Cookie Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing well. Gradually add the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined.
3. Bake the Crust:
Press the cookie dough evenly into the prepared pizza pan. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow the crust to cool completely.
4. Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting:
In a medium mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until well combined.
5. Assemble the Fruit Pizza:
Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled cookie crust. Arrange the fresh fruit in a decorative pattern on top of the frosting.
6. Optional Glaze:
For extra shine, heat the apricot preserves in a small saucepan until melted. Brush the warm preserves over the fruit for a glossy finish.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Refrigerate the fruit pizza for about 1 hour before slicing and serving. It’s best enjoyed chilled!
Tips for Making Fruit Pizza:
- Crust Alternatives:
If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought sugar cookie dough for the crust. - Fruit Options:
Feel free to use your favorite seasonal fruits. Berries, bananas, and even mango can be great additions. - Gluten-Free Option:
You can easily make a gluten-free version by substituting the flour with gluten-free all-purpose flour.
FAQs About Fruit Pizza:
Can I make the crust in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the cookie crust a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature and add the frosting and fruit just before serving.
Can I use different fruits?
Absolutely! You can use any fruit you prefer. Try experimenting with blackberries, raspberries, or even pineapple.
How long does the fruit pizza last?
Fruit pizza is best served fresh, but it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the fruit may start to release juices and soften the crust.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Use a dairy-free butter substitute and a plant-based cream cheese to create a dairy-free version of this recipe.