Fruit Pizza with Sugar Cookie Crust

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The delightful fusion of a sugar cookie crust and a vibrant assortment of fresh fruits creates a masterpiece known as the fruit pizza. This dessert, with its bright colors and refreshing flavors, is not only a feast for the eyes but an indulgence for the palate. My family and I recently tried this recipe, and it was an instant hit at our weekend gathering. The crisp yet tender cookie base paired with the creamy topping and juicy fruits made for a perfect blend of textures and flavors. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to adapt to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or simply satisfying a sweet tooth craving, this fruit pizza is sure to impress.

Ingredients

Creating this delectable fruit pizza starts with assembling the right ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to make this dessert:

• Sugar Cookie Crust: 1 package of refrigerated sugar cookie dough (or homemade if you prefer), softened to room temperature.
• Creamy Topping: 1 package (8 ounces) of cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup of granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
• Fruit Toppings: Choose your favorites or mix and match – strawberries, blueberries, kiwis, mandarin oranges, and grapes are popular choices.
• Optional Glaze: 1/2 cup of apricot preserves or other fruit jam, heated and strained.

Instructions

Follow these steps to assemble your fruit pizza:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. Prepare the Crust: Roll out the sugar cookie dough on the prepared baking sheet, shaping it into a large circle or rectangle, depending on your preference. Aim for an even thickness to ensure it bakes evenly.
3. Bake the Crust: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely.
4. Make the Creamy Topping: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Spread this mixture evenly over the cooled cookie crust.
5. Add the Fruit: Arrange your choice of fruits over the cream cheese layer. You can create a colorful pattern or scatter them randomly for a more rustic look.
6. Apply the Glaze (Optional): If desired, brush the fruit with the warmed apricot preserves to give it a glossy finish and enhance the flavor.
7. Chill and Serve: Place the assembled fruit pizza in the refrigerator for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld. Slice and serve cold.

Nutrition Facts

This fruit pizza recipe yields approximately 12 servings. Each serving contains about 250 calories. For those monitoring their caloric intake, this dessert offers a moderate indulgence with plenty of fruit-derived vitamins and minerals.

Preparation Time

The preparation and assembly of the fruit pizza require a total of approximately 30 minutes of active time. With an additional hour for chilling, you can easily prepare this dessert ahead of time, making it a convenient choice for entertaining guests.

How to Serve

Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your fruit pizza experience:

• Serve on a decorative platter to highlight the vibrant colors of the fruit.
• Pair with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
• Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and freshness.
• Offer a selection of additional toppings like shredded coconut or chopped nuts for added texture.
• Accompany with a glass of sparkling wine or a refreshing iced tea for a complete dessert experience.

Additional Tips

Here are some tips to ensure your fruit pizza is a success:

1. Use Fresh Fruit: Opt for ripe, in-season fruits for the best flavor and texture.
2. Customize to Taste: Feel free to swap out the cookie crust for a healthier option like a whole-wheat or almond flour crust.
3. Prevent Sogginess: Pat fruits dry with a paper towel before placing them on the creamy topping to prevent the crust from getting soggy.
4. Enhance the Flavor: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or a dash of lemon zest to the cream cheese mixture for an unexpected twist.
5. Make Ahead: Prepare the crust and cream cheese topping in advance, but wait to add the fruit until just before serving to maintain freshness.

FAQ Section

Here are some frequently asked questions about fruit pizza:

1. Can I make the sugar cookie crust from scratch?

Yes, you can definitely make the crust from scratch using your favorite sugar cookie recipe. Just ensure the dough is well-chilled before rolling it out to prevent spreading.

2. Is it possible to make a vegan version of this fruit pizza?

Absolutely! You can substitute the cream cheese with a vegan cream cheese alternative and use a vegan sugar cookie recipe for the crust.

3. How long does the fruit pizza last in the refrigerator?

The fruit pizza is best consumed within 2-3 days. Store it in an airtight container to keep the fruit fresh and the crust crisp.

4. Can I use frozen fruit instead of fresh fruit?

While fresh fruit is recommended for the best texture, you can use frozen fruit if it’s thoroughly thawed and drained before adding it to the pizza.

5. What can I do if I don’t have apricot preserves for the glaze?

If apricot preserves are unavailable, you can use any fruit preserves or jams that complement the fruit toppings. Alternatively, a simple syrup made of sugar and water can also add shine.