Fruit Pizza
Fruit pizza is a delightful dessert that brings together the best of both worlds: a sweet cookie crust topped with creamy frosting and a vibrant assortment of fresh fruits. Perfect for parties, picnics, or simply to satisfy a sweet craving, this colorful treat is as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate. With endless possibilities for toppings, you can customize it to suit your taste. Let’s dive into how to create this fun and fruity dish!
Ingredients
- 1 sugar cookie dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups assorted fresh fruits (strawberries, blueberries, bananas, kiwi)
- Mint leaves (for garnish)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 8 servings. Preparation time is approximately 20 minutes, and baking time is about 15 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 slice) contains approximately 180 calories, 7g fat, 25g carbohydrates, and 2g protein. This is based on using a standard sugar cookie crust and assorted fruits.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Roll out the sugar cookie dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Shape the dough into a large circle, about 1/4 inch thick.
- Bake for 15 minutes or until lightly golden brown. Let it cool completely.
- In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract to the cream cheese, mixing until well combined.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled cookie crust.
- Wash and slice your chosen fruits into bite-sized pieces.
- Arrange the sliced fruits decoratively on top of the cream cheese layer.
- Garnish with mint leaves and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute the sugar cookie dough with graham cracker crust for a different texture. Additionally, Greek yogurt can replace cream cheese for a lighter option.
Serving and Pairings
Fruit pizza pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. It’s also great alongside refreshing beverages like iced tea or lemonade.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover fruit pizza in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It is best enjoyed cold and should not be frozen, as the fruits will become mushy once thawed.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overbaking the cookie crust can make it too hard; keep an eye on it.
- Using overly ripe fruits may lead to a soggy topping.
- Not letting the crust cool completely before adding the cream can cause it to melt.
- Using too much frosting can overpower the fruit flavors.
- Forgetting to refrigerate before serving can make it less refreshing.
Helpful Tips
- Mix different fruit colors for a visually appealing presentation.
- Try using seasonal fruits for the best flavor and freshness.
- Chill the cream cheese mixture for easier spreading.
- Use a pizza cutter for clean, even slices.
FAQs
Can I make fruit pizza ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the crust and the cream cheese layer a day in advance. Assemble just before serving to keep the fruits fresh.
What fruits work best for fruit pizza?
Popular choices include strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, kiwi, and bananas. Use any fruits you enjoy!
Is fruit pizza healthy?
While fruit pizza contains sugar, it also offers beneficial nutrients from the fruits, making it a better option than many traditional desserts.
Can I use a different type of crust?
Absolutely! You can experiment with options like a brownie base, graham cracker crust, or even a gluten-free alternative.
How do I prevent the fruits from browning?
To keep fruits like bananas from browning, you can lightly toss them in lemon juice before adding them to the pizza.
Conclusion
Fruit pizza is not just a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. Its versatility allows for endless variations, making it a perfect dessert for any occasion. Enjoy creating and sharing this delightful dish!
Fruit Pizza
Ingredients
- 1 sugar cookie dough
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups assorted fresh fruits strawberries, blueberries, bananas, kiwi
- Mint leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Roll out the sugar cookie dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Shape the dough into a large circle, about 1/4 inch thick.
- Bake for 15 minutes or until lightly golden brown. Let it cool completely.
- In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract to the cream cheese, mixing until well combined.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled cookie crust.
- Wash and slice your chosen fruits into bite-sized pieces.
- Arrange the sliced fruits decoratively on top of the cream cheese layer.
- Garnish with mint leaves and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
