Fruit Pizza Summer Dessert

Colorful and delicious, Fruit Pizza Summer Dessert is perfect for any occasion. This vibrant treat combines a soft sugar cookie crust with a thick layer of tangy cream cheese frosting, topped with an array of fresh fruits. Whether it’s a summer barbecue, a birthday party, or just a fun family dessert night, fruit pizza is a delightful way to enjoy seasonal flavors!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Customizable Toppings: Choose your favorite fruits to create a unique dessert that fits any taste.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this dessert is perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Kid-Friendly: Kids love the colorful presentation and can help decorate with their favorite fruits!
• Perfect for Sharing: This dessert serves 10-12 people, making it ideal for gatherings and celebrations.
• Refreshing Flavor: The combination of creamy frosting and fresh fruit makes it a light and satisfying treat.

Tools and Preparation

Before getting started on your Fruit Pizza Summer Dessert, ensure you have the right tools on hand. These will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or handheld mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• 12-inch pizza pan
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or handheld mixer: Makes it easy to achieve a creamy consistency for the frosting without much effort.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining dry and wet ingredients separately to ensure even mixing.
• Pizza pan: Provides the perfect shape and size for your fruit pizza, ensuring even baking.

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!

Ingredients:
– 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 Dough

1. Whisk the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt together in a medium bowl.
2. In a large bowl using a handheld mixer or stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment:
3. Beat the butter and sugar together on medium-high speed until creamy (about 2 minutes).
4. Beat in the egg and vanilla until combined.
5. Scrape down the sides as needed.
6. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture:
7. Beat on low speed until fully combined.
8. Cover the dough tightly:
9. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes or up to 1 day.

Step 2: Bake the Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C).
2. Grease your 12-inch pizza pan with nonstick spray.
3. Remove chilled cookie dough from the refrigerator:
4. Press onto the pizza pan in a circle about 9–10 inches wide, approximately 1/3-inch thick.
5. Bake for 17–19 minutes:
6. Look for very lightly browned edges. Avoid over-baking!
7. Allow the crust to cool completely before decorating.

Step 3: Make the Frosting

1. In a medium bowl using a handheld or stand mixer fitted with a paddle or whisk attachment:
2. Beat together cream cheese and butter on medium speed until smooth (about 2 minutes).
3. Add confectioners’ sugar and vanilla:
4. Beat until creamy and combined.

Step 4: Assemble Your Fruit Pizza

1. Spread a thick layer of frosting over the cooled cookie crust.
2. Decorate with assorted fresh fruit slices as desired.

Step 5: Serve Your Dessert

1. Cut into slices before serving.
2. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Enjoy making this delightful Fruit Pizza Summer Dessert that’s sure to impress your family and friends!

How to Serve Fruit Pizza Summer Dessert

Fruit pizza summer dessert is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a refreshing end to a meal, these serving suggestions will make your fruit pizza even more enjoyable.

For a Festive Occasion

• Garnish with Mint: Add fresh mint leaves on top of the fruit for a burst of color and flavor.
• Serve with Whipped Cream: Offer whipped cream on the side for guests to dollop over their slices.

As Part of a Brunch Spread

• Slice into Small Squares: Cut the fruit pizza into bite-sized squares for easy sharing among guests.
• Pair with Mimosas: This refreshing drink complements the sweetness of the fruit pizza beautifully.

For Kids’ Parties

• Fun Shapes: Use cookie cutters to cut the cookie base into fun shapes before adding frosting and fruit.
• Let Kids Decorate: Set up a DIY fruit pizza station where kids can add their favorite fruits on top.

As a Refreshing Snack

• Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate the fruit pizza for an hour before serving to enhance its refreshing taste.
• Top with Yogurt Drizzle: Add a light drizzle of yogurt over the top for added creaminess and flavor.

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How to Perfect Fruit Pizza Summer Dessert

Achieving the perfect fruit pizza summer dessert requires attention to detail and some handy tips. Follow these suggestions to elevate your dessert game.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always select ripe and fresh fruits for the best flavor and texture.
• Pre-bake Crust Correctly: Ensure the sugar cookie crust is baked just right; it should be lightly golden but not overdone.
• Chill Before Decorating: Cooling the crust completely before adding frosting helps prevent melting and keeps everything intact.
• Variety of Fruits: Mix different fruits like berries, kiwis, and peaches for a colorful and vibrant display.
• Add Citrus Zest: A sprinkle of lemon or lime zest in your frosting adds a zesty kick that enhances flavors.
• Serve Immediately: For the best taste and texture, serve your fruit pizza soon after decorating.

Best Side Dishes for Fruit Pizza Summer Dessert

Fruit pizza summer dessert pairs well with several side dishes that enhance its delightful flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A light mix of seasonal fruits complements the dessert’s fruity topping perfectly.
2. Iced Tea: Serve sweetened or unsweetened iced tea for a refreshing beverage option alongside your dessert.
3. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses can balance out the sweetness with savory flavors; include crackers as well.
4. Vegetable Crudités: Crisp veggies with dip provide a crunchy contrast to the sweet fruit pizza.
5. Chocolate Fondue: Offer chocolate fondue with strawberries and bananas for dipping; it adds an indulgent touch.
6. Mini Cupcakes: Light vanilla or lemon cupcakes can round out your dessert table without overpowering the star dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Fruit Pizza Summer Dessert can be easy, but some common pitfalls can ruin the final outcome.

• Skipping Chilling Time: Not chilling the dough can lead to a thin and crispy crust. Always chill for at least 20 minutes to achieve the right texture.

• Overbaking the Crust: Baking too long can make the crust hard. Keep an eye on it and remove it when the edges are lightly browned.

• Not Using Room Temperature Ingredients: Cold butter or cream cheese will not blend well, resulting in lumps in your frosting. Allow these ingredients to sit out for about 30 minutes before you start.

• Choosing Unripe Fruit: Using fruit that isn’t ripe can affect the taste and appearance of your dessert. Opt for fresh, vibrant fruits that are at their peak sweetness.

• Forgetting to Grease the Pan: Even if using a nonstick pan, greasing helps prevent sticking. Apply a light coat of nonstick spray to ensure easy removal of your dessert.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Fruit Pizza Summer Dessert

• Freeze slices individually wrapped in plastic wrap.
• Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

Reheating Fruit Pizza Summer Dessert

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (177°C) and warm slices for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on high for 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat until warmed through, about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making a delicious Fruit Pizza Summer Dessert.

Can I use any kind of fruit?

Yes, feel free to customize with your favorite fruits! Berries, kiwi, and peaches work wonderfully.

How do I make this dessert gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blends available at most grocery stores.

Can I prepare the crust ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make and chill the dough up to one day in advance before baking.

What toppings work well besides fruit?

Consider adding nuts, chocolate drizzle, or even granola for added crunch and flavor.

How should I serve this dessert?

Slice it like pizza! It’s perfect for parties or gatherings as a refreshing treat.

Final Thoughts

The Fruit Pizza Summer Dessert is not only visually stunning but also versatile in flavor. With its colorful array of fruits atop a creamy frosting and soft cookie base, this dessert is sure to impress. Feel free to experiment with different fruits or toppings based on your preferences!