Name: Fruit Pizza with Cream Cheese
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (210g); 1/2 cup salted butter, at room temperature (1 stick, 114g); 1/2 cup granulated sugar (100g); 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 4 oz cream cheese, slightly softened (113g); 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup powdered sugar (120g); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 tablespoon lemon juice, approx. a quarter of a lemon; 2-3 cups various fresh fruit, washed and sliced (300-400g)

Fruit Pizza with Cream Cheese is the delightful dessert you’ve been searching for. Combining the deliciousness of sugar cookies with the lush flavors of fresh fruit and cream cheese, this dessert is a masterpiece of culinary art and a hit at any gathering. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to create this scrumptious treat from scratch, ensuring it’s perfect every time you make it.

Description About Fruit Pizza with Cream Cheese

Imagine a canvas of buttery, golden sugar cookie crust that’s thick enough to support a luscious cream cheese layer, all topped with a vibrant array of fresh, colorful fruit. This Fruit Pizza with Cream Cheese is not just a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. It’s a versatile dessert—perfect for birthday parties, family gatherings, or simply as a unique way to satisfy your sweet tooth. The cream cheese adds a tangy quality that balances the sweetness of the sugar cookie crust and fruit, creating the perfect symphony of flavors in every bite.

Ingredients About Fruit Pizza with Cream Cheese

List of Ingredients with Measurements

All-purpose flour: 1 1/2 cups (210g)
Salted butter, at room temperature: 1/2 cup (1 stick, 114g)
Granulated sugar: 1/2 cup (100g)
Large egg: 1
Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
Cream cheese, slightly softened to room temperature: 4 oz (113g)
Unsalted butter, softened to room temperature: 2 tablespoons
Powdered sugar: 1 cup (120g)
Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
Lemon juice: 1/2 tablespoon, approx. a quarter of a lemon
Various fresh fruit, washed and sliced: 2-3 cups (300-400g)

Optional Ingredient Substitutions

Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free alternative.
Substitute granulated sugar with coconut sugar or a sugar substitute like Stevia for a lower-sugar version.
Opt for plant-based cream cheese for a dairy-free option.
Choose fruits to your taste or seasonal availability, using options like kiwi, berries, or mango.

How to Make Fruit Pizza with Cream Cheese Directions

Step 1: Make the Sugar Cookie Pizza Crust

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, cream together the salted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined. Gradually incorporate the flour, stirring until a dough forms. Press this dough evenly onto a greased pizza pan or a baking sheet to form the crust. Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and the surface is set. Allow it to cool completely before applying the toppings.

Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Sauce

In another bowl, blend the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, followed by the vanilla extract and lemon juice. Mix until you achieve a creamy and spreadable consistency. The lemon juice will add a fresh zing to the sauce, complementing the sweetness of the cookie crust.

Step 3: Assemble the Fruit Pizza

Once the cookie crust is completely cooled, spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the surface. Be sure to cover the entire crust, leaving a small border if desired to give it a clean, polished look.

Step 4: Add the Fruit Topping

Now comes the fun part—decorating with fruit! Arrange the washed and sliced fresh fruit in a pattern of your choice. You can opt for neat rows, colorful concentric circles, or a random scatter for a rustic look. Use fruits like strawberries, blueberries, kiwi, and grapes for a vibrant presentation. The natural sweetness and vibrant colors of the fruit will enhance both the taste and appearance of your pizza.

How to Serve Fruit Pizza with Cream Cheese

Best Ways to Serve Fruit Pizza with Cream Cheese

Serve your Fruit Pizza with Cream Cheese as soon as it’s ready to enjoy the freshest taste. It’s perfect for brunches, picnics, or a standout dessert at gatherings. You can slice it like a traditional pizza or cut it into squares for a more refined presentation.

Serving Suggestions or Pairings

Pair your fruit pizza with a glass of sparkling wine or a light, fruity punch for an elevated experience. It also pairs well with a dollop of yogurt or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence. This dessert is versatile enough to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.

How to Store Fruit Pizza with Cream Cheese

Proper Storage Methods

If you have leftovers, store them in the refrigerator. Cover the Fruit Pizza with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness. It should be enjoyed within 3 days for the best taste and texture.

Tips for Reheating or Freezing

This dessert is best enjoyed fresh due to the fresh fruit and cream cheese component, but you can freeze the sugar cookie crust separately. If you must make it ahead, prepare the crust and toppings separately, refrigerate them, and assemble close to serving time.

Tips to Make Fruit Pizza with Cream Cheese

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid overbaking the sugar cookie crust, which can lead to a dry base. Also, be careful not to overload the pizza with fruit, which could make the crust soggy.

Helpful Tips for Better Results

For an even spread, use an offset spatula to apply the cream cheese layer. Allow the crust to cool completely before adding the toppings to prevent melting. For a glaze-like effect, consider lightly heating a couple of tablespoons of apricot preserves and brushing them over the fruits.

Variations of Fruit Pizza with Cream Cheese

Suggested Variations or Twists on the Recipe

Try using a chocolate cookie crust for a richer flavor or adding a sprinkle of toasted nuts such as almonds or pecans for an added crunch. Another variation is to use a strawberry cream cheese mix instead of plain cream cheese for additional fruity flavor.

Adjustments for Dietary Preferences

For a lighter version, use a low-fat cream cheese and reduce the amount of sugar. Incorporate seasonal and local fruits for eco-friendly and often more flavorful toppings. Vegan versions can utilize plant-based butter and cream cheese substitutes without sacrificing taste.

FAQs

What Can I Do If the Dish Isn’t Turning Out Right?

If your crust seems too soft, try chilling it before baking, or if it’s overbaked, simply trim the edges. For a running cream cheese sauce, ensure the mixture is well chilled before spreading.

Can I Make This Ahead of Time?

Yes, the components of the Fruit Pizza can be prepared in advance. Bake and cool the crust, and make the cream cheese topping earlier, but store them separately. Assemble them just prior to serving to maintain the fresh, crisp texture and vibrant flavors of the fruits.

What Can I Substitute for Ingredients?

To accommodate different dietary needs or personal preferences, you can choose gluten-free flour, a sugar substitute, and non-dairy cream cheese and butter. For fruits, feel free to use any combination that suits your taste, whether it’s citrus slices for zing or soft summer berries for sweetness.

With these steps, tips, and variations, you are well-equipped to make a delicious Fruit Pizza with Cream Cheese that will impress your family and friends. Enjoy the creative process and the guaranteed delicious results!