Fruit Pizza

Fruit pizza is a delightful dessert that combines a soft sugar cookie crust with rich cream cheese frosting and a vibrant assortment of fresh fruit. Perfect for parties, potlucks, or simply as a sweet treat at home, this recipe is sure to impress anyone who takes a bite. The colorful toppings and glossy apricot glaze create an inviting presentation that stands out on any table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This fruit pizza comes together quickly, making it perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.
• Customizable: Use your favorite fruits for topping, allowing you to tailor the flavors to your liking.
• Visually Stunning: The combination of colors from the fruits makes for an eye-catching dessert that’s great for gatherings.
• Creamy and Sweet: The rich cream cheese frosting pairs perfectly with the fresh fruit, creating a delicious balance of flavors.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday party or a summer picnic, this fruit pizza fits right in.

Tools and Preparation

To make your fruit pizza successfully, having the right tools can make all the difference. Below are essential tools you’ll need for this recipe.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• 12-inch pizza pan (rimmed)
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: These help achieve a light and fluffy cream cheese frosting without much effort.
• Mixing bowls: Having multiple bowls allows you to keep ingredients organized while preparing different components of the recipe.

Ingredients

You get a soft and tender sugar cookie base that’s covered with a rich cream cheese frosting, then that is layered with a generous amount of vibrantly flavored fresh fruit, and lastly it’s finished with a sweet apricot jam which gives it the perfect finishing sheen.

For the Cookie Crust

• 1 2/3 cups (236g) all-purpose flour, preferably unbleached (scoop and level to measure)
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
• 12 Tbsp (170g) unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 1 large egg, at room temperature
• 2 tsp vanilla extract

For the Cream Cheese Topping

• 1 (8 oz) pkg. cream cheese, nearly room temperature
• 6 Tbsp (38g) granulated sugar, or a little more to taste
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

For the Fruit Layer

• 5 cups (approx.) assorted fresh fruit

For the Glaze

• 1/4 cup apricot preserves, pressed through a sieve to remove lumps
• 1 Tbsp water

How to Make Fruit Pizza

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Butter a rimmed 12-inch pizza pan without holes, line it with parchment paper, and then butter the parchment paper as well.

Step 2: Prepare the Cookie Dough Crust

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together:
1. Flour,
2. Baking powder,
3. Baking soda,
4. Salt.

In the bowl of an electric stand mixer:
1. Cream together granulated sugar and butter until well combined.
2. Scrape down the bowl.
3. Mix in the egg and blend in vanilla extract.
4. Scrape down again.
5. Add flour mixture and blend just until combined.

Step 3: Bake the Crust

Drop batter onto prepared pizza pan:
1. Spread into an even layer using hands coated in non-stick cooking spray.
2. Bake in preheated oven about 11 – 13 minutes until just baked through.
3. Remove from oven and let cool completely on a wire rack.

Step 4: Make the Cream Cheese Topping

In a mixing bowl using an electric hand mixer (or stand mixer):
1. Whip cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla until light and fluffy.
2. Spread topping over cooled crust evenly.

Step 5: Decorate with Fruit

Decorate your pizza with assorted fresh fruit as desired.

Step 6: Add the Glaze

In a small mixing bowl:
1. Whisk together apricot preserves and water.
2. Brush mixture over decorated fruit.

Step 7: Serve

Serve within a few hours of preparing for best results. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for later enjoyment!

How to Serve Fruit Pizza

Fruit pizza is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

Individual Slices

• Serve each slice on its own for a classic presentation. This allows everyone to enjoy their piece without any fuss.

Fruit Garnish

• Add a sprig of mint or edible flowers on top of each slice for a pop of color and extra flavor.

Ice Cream Pairing

• Serve with a scoop of vanilla or coconut ice cream on the side. The creaminess complements the freshness of the fruit beautifully.

Drizzle of Honey

• A light drizzle of honey over each slice adds a touch of sweetness and enhances the fruity flavors.

Fresh Whipped Cream

• Offer fresh whipped cream on the side for guests who want an extra creamy texture with their fruit pizza.

How to Perfect Fruit Pizza

To create the best fruit pizza, follow these tips for optimal results.

• Use Fresh Fruit: Opt for ripe, seasonal fruits as they provide the best flavor and texture.
• Chill Before Serving: Keep your fruit pizza refrigerated for at least an hour before serving for a refreshing treat.
• Avoid Overloading Toppings: Too much fruit can make the crust soggy, so balance is key when decorating.
• Experiment with Flavors: Try different fruit combinations like berries, kiwi, and citrus for a unique twist.
• Ensure Even Spreading: Spread your cream cheese frosting evenly to create a smooth base that holds everything together.

Best Side Dishes for Fruit Pizza

Pairing side dishes with your fruit pizza can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Greek Yogurt: A dollop of Greek yogurt adds protein and tanginess that balances the sweetness of the fruit pizza.
2. Crisp Salad: A green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the dessert’s sweetness.
3. Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses works well, offering savory notes that complement the sweet flavors.
4. Fruit Salad: A simple fruit salad can highlight seasonal fruits and add variety to your dessert table.
5. Nut Mix: A crunchy nut mix offers texture and healthy fats, enhancing the overall dining experience.
6. Vegetable Crudités: Fresh vegetables served with a light dip provide a nice balance to the rich flavors of fruit pizza.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Fruit Pizza can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Boldly skip the cooling step: Allowing the cookie crust to cool completely is essential. Skipping this can lead to a soggy base when you spread the cream cheese frosting.
• Boldly overmix the dough: Mixing too much can result in a tough cookie crust. Blend the ingredients until just combined for a tender texture.
• Boldly skimp on fruit variety: Using a limited selection of fruits may affect flavor and visual appeal. Aim for an assortment of vibrant fruits for the best results.
• Boldly forget about the preserves: Brushing apricot preserves on top not only adds shine but also enhances flavor. Don’t skip this step for that perfect finish!
• Boldly serve immediately after preparation: For optimal taste and texture, let your Fruit Pizza chill in the fridge for a bit before serving. This allows flavors to meld beautifully.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Fruit Pizza in an airtight container.
• It will keep well for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Fruit Pizza

• Wrap Fruit Pizza tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months, but it’s best enjoyed fresh.

Reheating Fruit Pizza

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm slices for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices in 15-second intervals until warm. Be cautious not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re curious about making the perfect Fruit Pizza, here are some common questions answered.

What is Fruit Pizza?

Fruit Pizza is a dessert that features a soft sugar cookie base topped with cream cheese frosting and fresh fruit. It’s visually appealing and delicious!

How do I prevent my cookie base from being too soft?

To ensure your cookie base holds its shape, allow it to bake until just set and cool completely before adding toppings.

Can I use different fruits on my Fruit Pizza?

Absolutely! You can customize your Fruit Pizza with any fresh fruit you like, such as berries, kiwi, or mango.

How long does it take to make Fruit Pizza?

The total time from prep to serving is roughly 19 minutes, making it a quick dessert option.

Final Thoughts

Fruit Pizza is an enticing dessert that combines a tender cookie crust with creamy frosting and colorful fruits. Its versatility allows you to experiment with various toppings and flavors, making it perfect for any occasion. Give this recipe a try and customize it to your taste!