Fruit Pizza

This easy Fruit Pizza recipe is a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion, from summer barbecues to birthday parties. With its sweet brown sugar cookie crust, luscious cream cheese frosting, and a variety of fresh fruits, this dessert is sure to impress your guests. It’s colorful, tasty, and can be customized with your favorite fruits, making it a versatile option for dessert lovers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make – With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can whip up this delicious dessert.
• Customizable Toppings – Use your favorite fruits or seasonal picks for a unique twist every time.
• Perfect for Sharing – This recipe serves 12-16 people, making it ideal for gatherings and celebrations.
• No Baking Skills Required – The easy-to-follow instructions mean that even novice bakers can create a stunning dessert.
• Deliciously Versatile – Enjoy it as a refreshing summer treat or a fun dessert year-round.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your Fruit Pizza, gather the essential tools you’ll need. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Baking pan (quarter sheet pan, 9 x 13-inch dish, or 12-inch round pizza pan)
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: Makes it easy to combine ingredients quickly without much effort.
• Baking pan: Ensures even cooking and helps achieve the right thickness for your crust.
• Wire rack: Allows baked items to cool evenly without trapping steam.

Ingredients

To make this easy Fruit Pizza, gather the following ingredients:

For the Cookie Crust

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for rolling)
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

• 1 (8 ounce) package low-fat cream cheese
• 2-3 tablespoons maple syrup or honey (or 1 cup powdered sugar)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of fine sea salt

For Topping

• Fresh strawberries (blueberries, raspberries, blackberries, or any other fruit that sounds good!)
• Optional fresh honey, for drizzling

How to Make Fruit Pizza

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease either a quarter sheet pan, a 9 x 13-inch baking dish, or a 12-inch round pizza pan with cooking spray.

Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt; set aside.

Step 3: Make the Cookie Dough

In a large mixing bowl using either a stand mixer (with the blade attachment) or hand mixer:
1. Beat the butter and brown sugar together on medium speed until light and fluffy (about 2 minutes).
2. Add in the egg along with both vanilla extracts; mix until fully combined.
3. Gradually add in the dry ingredients while mixing on low speed until just combined. Avoid over-mixing.

Step 4: Bake the Crust

Press the dough evenly into your prepared pan/dish. Use a fork to poke several holes in the dough to prevent bubbling.
Bake for 15-18 minutes or until lightly golden. Once done, transfer to a wire rack to cool for about 20 minutes.

Step 5: Prepare the Frosting

While waiting for your crust to cool:
In a mixing bowl, whisk together all frosting ingredients until well combined.

Step 6: Assemble Your Fruit Pizza

Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled cookie crust. Top with your choice of fresh fruit and drizzle with honey if desired. Slice into pieces and enjoy!

How to Serve Fruit Pizza

Fruit pizza is a delightful and colorful dessert that can be served in various ways. Whether for a party or a family gathering, these serving suggestions will elevate your Fruit Pizza experience.

Individual Slices

• Serve each slice on a decorative plate for a personal touch.
• Add a dollop of whipped cream or yogurt on the side for added creaminess.

Family Style

• Place the entire Fruit Pizza on a large platter.
• Allow guests to slice their own pieces, making it perfect for gatherings and celebrations.

Mini Fruit Pizzas

• Use small cookie rounds instead of one large crust.
• Top each mini pizza with fruit and frosting for bite-sized treats that are easy to grab.

Drizzle Options

• Offer honey or maple syrup in small bowls for drizzling.
• Provide various flavored syrups, such as chocolate or strawberry, to complement the fruit toppings.

How to Perfect Fruit Pizza

To make your Fruit Pizza truly stand out, consider these simple tips that enhance flavor and presentation.

• Choose ripe fruit: Fresh, ripe fruit will burst with flavor and look vibrant on your pizza.
• Chill the frosting: Refrigerating the frosting before spreading it will make it easier to apply evenly.
• Mix fruit textures: Combine soft fruits like strawberries with crunchy options like apples for added texture.
• Pre-bake the crust: Ensure the cookie crust is fully baked before adding the frosting and toppings to keep it from becoming soggy.

Best Side Dishes for Fruit Pizza

Pairing side dishes with your Fruit Pizza can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some fantastic options to consider:

1. Fresh Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the sweetness of the dessert.
2. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits keeps the dessert theme going while adding variety.
3. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses balances the sweetness of the Fruit Pizza with savory flavors.
4. Ice Cream: Offer vanilla or coconut ice cream alongside for a creamy contrast to the fruity topping.
5. Nut Mix: A bowl of mixed nuts adds crunch and richness that pairs well with sweet flavors.
6. Smoothies: Serve refreshing fruit smoothies as a drink option that echoes the flavors of the pizza.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Fruit Pizza is straightforward, but there are a few common mistakes to keep in mind.

• Skipping the Cooling Step: Not allowing the cookie crust to cool can lead to melting frosting. Always let it cool completely before spreading on the frosting.
• Overmixing the Dough: Mixing too long can make the crust tough. Combine just until ingredients are mixed for a softer texture.
• Using Too Much Topping: Adding too many fruits can make it soggy. Keep a balanced amount of fruit for best results.
• Not Adjusting Sweetness: Every fruit has a different sweetness level. Taste your frosting and adjust with more maple syrup or honey if needed.
• Ignoring Pan Size: Using a pan that’s too small may result in thicker crust and longer baking time. Stick to the recommended sizes for even baking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Enjoy within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Fruit Pizza

• Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Fruit Pizza

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and warm for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 20-30 seconds, watch closely.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Fruit Pizza.

What is Fruit Pizza?

Fruit Pizza is a dessert that consists of a cookie-like crust topped with cream cheese frosting and fresh fruit. It’s perfect for summer gatherings!

Can I use different fruits on my Fruit Pizza?

Yes! You can customize your Fruit Pizza with any seasonal fruits like kiwi, peaches, or grapes for a delightful twist.

How should I cut my Fruit Pizza?

Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to slice it into wedges or squares. This makes it easy to serve at parties!

What variations of Fruit Pizza can I make?

You can experiment by adding different flavored extracts or even using whipped cream instead of cream cheese frosting for variety.

Final Thoughts

This easy Fruit Pizza recipe is not only delicious but also flexible. You can mix and match fruits and adjust sweetness according to your taste. It’s perfect for summer parties or as a refreshing dessert any time of year. Give it a try and enjoy the burst of flavors!