Fruit Pizza Summer Dessert

Colorful and refreshing, Fruit Pizza Summer Dessert is the perfect treat for brightening up any gathering. This delightful dessert features a soft sugar cookie crust topped with a thick layer of cream cheese frosting and an array of vibrant, fresh fruits. Ideal for summer picnics, birthday parties, or just a fun family dessert night, this colorful treat is sure to impress. The best part? You can customize it with your favorite seasonal fruits!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have this dessert ready in no time.
• Customizable: Choose from a variety of fruits to create a unique fruit pizza each time you make it.
• Visually Stunning: The vibrant colors of the fruits make this dessert a showstopper at any gathering.
• Kid-Friendly: Kids will love helping to decorate this fun pizza with their favorite fruits.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a summer barbecue or a birthday celebration, this dessert fits right in.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather the necessary tools to make your Fruit Pizza Summer Dessert. Having everything on hand will streamline your cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or handheld mixer
• Medium mixing bowl
• Large mixing bowl
• 12-inch pizza pan
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or handheld mixer: These tools make it easy to mix the butter and sugar until creamy without much effort.
• Pizza pan: A dedicated pizza pan ensures even cooking and makes it easier to decorate your fruit pizza.

Ingredients

Colorful fruit pizza features a vibrant bounty of fruit atop a soft sugar cookie crust and thick, tangy cream cheese frosting. Choose your favorite fruits to customize this classic summertime dessert!

• 1 and 1/2 cups (188g) all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled)
• 1 and 1/2 teaspoons cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (8 Tbsp; 113g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
• 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
• 1 large egg, at room temperature
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 8 ounces (226g) full-fat brick cream cheese, softened to room temperature
• 3 Tablespoons (43g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
• 1 and 1/4 cups (150g) confectioners’ sugar
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 3 cups (about 400g) assorted sliced fresh fruit

How to Make Fruit Pizza Summer Dessert

Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Dough

Whisk together the dry ingredients for the crust.

1. In a medium bowl, whisk the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt until well combined.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

Cream together butter and sugar.

1. In a large bowl using a stand mixer or handheld mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the butter and sugar on medium-high speed until creamy for about 2 minutes.
2. Add in the egg and vanilla. Scrape down the sides as needed.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Mix until well combined.

1. Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet ingredients.
2. Beat on low speed until everything is fully incorporated.
3. Cover tightly and chill in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes.

Step 4: Bake the Crust

Get that oven ready!

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C).
2. Grease your pizza pan with nonstick spray.
3. Press chilled dough onto the pan in a circle about 9–10 inches wide.
4. Bake for about 17–19 minutes or until lightly browned around the edges.
5. Allow cooling completely before decorating.

Step 5: Make Cream Cheese Frosting

Create that delicious topping!

1. In another medium bowl using your mixer, beat together the cream cheese and remaining butter until smooth in texture.
2. Add in the confectioners’ sugar and additional vanilla. Beat until creamy.

Step 6: Assemble Your Fruit Pizza

Time for decoration!

1. Spread a thick layer of frosting over your cooled cookie crust.
2. Top generously with assorted sliced fresh fruit.

Step 7: Serve

Cut into slices and enjoy!

This delightful Fruit Pizza Summer Dessert is not just visually appealing but also refreshingly delicious! Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days—though they may not last that long!

How to Serve Fruit Pizza Summer Dessert

Fruit pizza is not only delicious but also visually stunning, making it a perfect centerpiece for any summer gathering. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your fruit pizza experience.

Individual Slices

• Serve pre-sliced pieces on colorful plates. This makes it easy for guests to grab their own serving without any fuss.

Fruit Garnish

• Add extra slices of fresh fruit on top of each slice for a pop of color. This can elevate the presentation and flavor.

Creamy Drizzle

• Offer a drizzle of additional cream cheese frosting or a yogurt sauce on the side. This enhances the dessert’s creamy texture.

Ice Cream Pairing

• Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla or coconut ice cream. The creaminess complements the fruity flavors beautifully.

Refreshing Beverages

• Pair with refreshing drinks like lemonade or iced tea. The citrus notes will balance the sweetness of the fruit pizza.

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How to Perfect Fruit Pizza Summer Dessert

To ensure your fruit pizza is a hit, consider these helpful tips for achieving perfection.

• Use Fresh Fruit: Choose ripe, seasonal fruits for the best flavor and presentation. Fresh strawberries, blueberries, and kiwi work wonderfully.

• Chill Your Dough: Allowing your cookie dough to chill helps create a sturdier crust that holds up well under toppings.

• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your crust while baking; it should be lightly golden around the edges. Overbaking can lead to a dry crust.

• Layer Toppings Carefully: Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly before adding fruit to prevent them from sliding off when served.

• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to mix in flavored extracts like almond or lemon into the frosting for added depth of flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Fruit Pizza Summer Dessert

Fruit pizza pairs well with various side dishes that complement its sweetness and freshness. Here are some delightful options:

1. Grilled Chicken Salad: A light salad featuring grilled chicken, mixed greens, and a tangy vinaigrette can balance out the sweetness of the dessert.

2. Caprese Skewers: These skewers offer fresh mozzarella, basil, and cherry tomatoes drizzled with balsamic glaze for a savory bite.

3. Veggie Platter: Serve an assortment of crunchy vegetables with hummus or ranch dressing as a refreshing appetizer before dessert.

4. Cheese Board: A selection of cheeses—like brie, cheddar, and goat cheese—paired with nuts and crackers adds variety to your spread.

5. Pasta Salad: A cold pasta salad with seasonal veggies and Italian dressing provides a satisfying yet light addition to your meal.

6. Fruit Salad: Enhance the fruity theme by serving a simple fruit salad made with seasonal fruits tossed in lime juice for extra zing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a Fruit Pizza Summer Dessert, avoiding common pitfalls can lead to success. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Incorrect dough consistency: If your cookie dough is too dry or too wet, it won’t bake properly. Make sure to measure your flour correctly and chill the dough as directed.
• Overbaking the crust: Baking the sugar cookie crust for too long can result in a hard texture. Keep an eye on the edges, and remove it from the oven when they are lightly browned.
• Skipping room temperature ingredients: Using cold butter or cream cheese can make it difficult to achieve a smooth frosting. Always let these ingredients sit out for at least 30 minutes before mixing.
• Not decorating promptly: If you let the cookie crust cool for too long before adding frosting and fruit, it might become challenging to spread the frosting evenly. Decorate while it’s still slightly warm for better results.
• Using overly ripe fruit: While fresh fruit is essential, using overly ripe pieces can lead to a mushy topping. Choose firm, colorful fruits for a vibrant look and texture.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
• The Fruit Pizza Summer Dessert will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Fruit Pizza Summer Dessert

• It is best to freeze just the sugar cookie crust without toppings.
• Wrap the cooled crust tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can last up to 2 months.

Reheating Fruit Pizza Summer Dessert

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and warm for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 15-20 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making a Fruit Pizza Summer Dessert:

Can I use other fruits on my Fruit Pizza Summer Dessert?

Yes! Feel free to customize with your favorite seasonal fruits like berries, kiwi, or peaches.

How do I prevent my crust from getting soggy?

Make sure the crust is completely cooled before adding frosting and fruit. This helps maintain its texture.

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

You can prepare the sugar cookie crust and frosting ahead of time. Assemble just before serving for best results.

What should I serve with my Fruit Pizza Summer Dessert?

This dessert pairs well with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra treat!

Final Thoughts

The Fruit Pizza Summer Dessert offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures that makes it perfect for gatherings or casual family meals. With endless customization options, this dessert allows you to showcase your favorite fruits while delighting your guests. Try it out this summer!