Fruit Pizza

This easy Fruit Pizza recipe is a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. With a luscious brown sugar cookie crust and creamy frosting, this dessert is not only visually appealing but also customizable with your favorite fruits. It’s an ideal choice for summer gatherings, birthday parties, or simply as a sweet ending to a family meal. The vibrant colors and fresh flavors make this dessert a standout that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe requires simple ingredients and minimal prep time, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Customizable Toppings: Use any combination of fresh fruits you enjoy—strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, or whatever’s in season!
• Perfect for Sharing: With 12-16 servings, this Fruit Pizza is ideal for potlucks and gatherings.
• Deliciously Indulgent: The combination of the brown sugar cookie crust and cream cheese frosting creates a rich flavor that’s hard to resist.
• Visually Stunning: Layering colorful fruit on top makes this dessert not only tasty but also beautiful on any table.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare your Fruit Pizza, you will need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the baking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: These tools help achieve a fluffy texture in your cookie dough by thoroughly combining ingredients without over-mixing.
• Mixing bowls: Using separate bowls for dry and wet ingredients ensures even mixing and better results.
• Baking pan: A good quality baking pan ensures even cooking and easy removal of your baked crust.

Ingredients

This easy Fruit Pizza recipe is made with my favorite brown sugar cookie crust, spread with a dreamy cream cheese frosting, and then topped with your favorite combination of fruit!

Ingredients:
– 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
– 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
– 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: Mix Dry Ingredients

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

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

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 the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Beat until completely combined.
3. Gradually add in the dry ingredients while beating on low speed until just combined. Avoid over-mixing.

Step 4: Bake the Cookie 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 until lightly golden.
* Transfer to a wire rack to cool for about 20 minutes.

Step 5: Prepare the Frosting

Meanwhile, whisk together the frosting ingredients until they are well combined.

Step 6: Assemble Your Fruit Pizza

Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled cookie crust:
* Top with your favorite fruits.
* Drizzle with honey if desired.
Slice into pieces, serve, and enjoy!

How to Serve Fruit Pizza

Fruit pizza is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re sharing with friends or serving at a gathering, these serving suggestions will enhance your experience.

Individual Slices

• Serve each slice on its own for easy handling at parties or picnics. This makes it simple for guests to grab and enjoy without any fuss.

Family Style

• Present the fruit pizza whole on a large platter. Allow guests to slice their own pieces, making it a fun and interactive dessert option.

With Ice Cream

• Pair slices of fruit pizza with a scoop of vanilla or berry ice cream. The creamy texture complements the fruity topping perfectly.

Drizzled with Honey

• Offer honey on the side for drizzling over the fruit pizza. This adds an extra touch of sweetness that many will love.

Fresh Mint Garnish

• Add a sprig of fresh mint on each slice before serving. This not only looks appealing but also adds a refreshing flavor contrast.

Seasonal Fruits

• Customize your fruit toppings based on the season. Using fruits like peaches in summer or apples in fall can make this dessert even more special.

How to Perfect Fruit Pizza

Creating the perfect fruit pizza involves some simple tips that enhance both flavor and presentation.

• Choose Fresh Fruits: Use ripe, seasonal fruits for the best taste and appearance.
• Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate your assembled fruit pizza for at least 30 minutes before serving for a refreshing bite.
• Avoid Overmixing: When preparing the cookie crust, mix until just combined to keep it tender and soft.
• Experiment with Spreads: While cream cheese frosting is classic, try Greek yogurt or whipped coconut cream for different flavors.
• Cut with Care: Use a sharp knife to ensure clean slices when serving, which helps maintain the visual appeal.
• Add Crunch: Consider sprinkling chopped nuts or granola on top for an added crunch and texture contrast.

Best Side Dishes for Fruit Pizza

Fruit pizza pairs wonderfully with several side dishes that complement its sweet flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad
   A mix of seasonal fruits that mirrors the toppings on your pizza, providing freshness and variety.

2. Yogurt Parfait
   Layers of yogurt, granola, and berries make for a light and healthy side that balances out the sweetness of the pizza.

3. Cheese Platter
   An assortment of cheeses can be a savory contrast to the sweet flavors of fruit pizza, making it an interesting combination.

4. Veggie Sticks with Hummus
   Crisp vegetables paired with hummus offer a crunchy and nutritious side that enhances any dessert table.

5. Coconut Macaroons
   These chewy treats add another layer of sweetness while still being easy to make ahead of time.

6. Lemonade or Iced Tea
   Refreshing drinks such as lemonade or iced tea provide a cooling beverage option that complements the fruity dessert well.

7. Chocolate-Covered Pretzels
   The salty-sweet combination from chocolate-covered pretzels adds an exciting twist alongside your fruit pizza.

8. Granola Bars
   Homemade granola bars can be cut into bite-sized pieces, providing another sweet yet wholesome option to accompany your dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Fruit Pizza can be a fun and rewarding experience, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using cold butter: Cold butter doesn’t blend well with sugar. Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for a smooth dough.
• Overmixing the dough: Overmixing can lead to a tough crust. Mix just until combined for a tender, chewy texture.
• Skipping the cooling step: Frosting a warm crust can melt the frosting. Always let your crust cool completely before spreading on the cream cheese mixture.
• Not measuring ingredients properly: Accurate measurements are crucial for baking success. Use measuring cups and spoons for precision.
• Choosing the wrong fruit: Some fruits release too much moisture, making the pizza soggy. Opt for sturdier fruits like strawberries or blueberries for the best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
• Consume within 3-5 days for optimal flavor and texture.

Freezing Fruit Pizza

• Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap then place them in a freezer-safe container.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months; however, fresh fruit will not hold up as well after thawing.

Reheating Fruit Pizza

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm slices on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 15-20 seconds, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a pan over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Fruit Pizza.

How can I customize my Fruit Pizza?

You can easily customize your Fruit Pizza by experimenting with different fruits or changing up the frosting flavors. Consider adding citrus zest or using flavored cream cheeses!

What is the best way to serve Fruit Pizza?

Slice it into wedges and serve chilled. It’s perfect for parties or potlucks where guests can help themselves!

Can I make Fruit Pizza ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the cookie crust and frosting ahead of time. Assemble right before serving to keep the fruits fresh.

What fruits work best on Fruit Pizza?

Fruits like strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and kiwi are excellent options. Choose any combination that you enjoy!

Is Fruit Pizza suitable for kids?

Absolutely! Kids love colorful foods, making this dessert an appealing option. It’s also a great way to sneak in some fruit!

Final Thoughts

This easy Fruit Pizza recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with your favorite fruits or even experiment with different toppings. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself, this dessert is sure to impress everyone at the table!