Fruit Pizza Summer Dessert

Colorful and refreshing, Fruit Pizza Summer Dessert is a delightful way to celebrate the season! This vibrant dish features a sweet sugar cookie crust topped with creamy frosting and an array of fresh fruits. Perfect for parties, picnics, or simply as a family treat, this dessert is not only visually appealing but also customizable to suit everyone’s tastes. Enjoy the perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess in each slice!

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Cookie Crust
• For the Cream Cheese Frosting
• For the Fruit Topping
• How to Make Fruit Pizza Summer Dessert
• Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Crust
• Step 2: Bake the Crust
• Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
• Step 4: Assemble Your Fruit Pizza
• Step 5: Serve Your Dessert
• How to Serve Fruit Pizza Summer Dessert
• Individual Slices
• Family-Style Platter
• Dessert Bar
• Picnic Treat
• How to Perfect Fruit Pizza Summer Dessert
• Best Side Dishes for Fruit Pizza Summer Dessert
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Fruit Pizza Summer Dessert
• Reheating Fruit Pizza Summer Dessert
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use different fruits?
• How do I prevent my cookie crust from spreading?
• Is there a gluten-free version of this dessert?
• How long does this dessert last in the fridge?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can whip up this summer dessert.
• Customizable Toppings: Use your favorite fruits or whatever is in season for endless variations.
• Kid-Friendly: A fun way to get kids involved in the kitchen while creating a delicious treat they’ll love.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday party or a summer barbecue, this dessert fits right in.
• Visually Stunning: The colorful display of fruits makes it an eye-catching centerpiece on any table.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delightful recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

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: These are essential for achieving the creamy texture needed for both the dough and cream cheese frosting.
• Mixing bowls: Having separate bowls helps keep your ingredients organized during preparation.

Ingredients

To create this delectable Fruit Pizza Summer Dessert, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Cookie Crust

• 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

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

• 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

For the Fruit Topping

• 3 cups (about 400g) assorted sliced fresh fruit

How to Make Fruit Pizza Summer Dessert

Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Crust

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar on medium-high speed until creamy (about 2 minutes).
3. Add in the egg and vanilla extract. Mix well.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture while beating on low speed until fully combined.
5. Cover the dough tightly with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes.

Step 2: Bake the Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C).
2. Grease a 12-inch pizza pan with nonstick spray.
3. Press chilled cookie dough evenly onto the pizza pan in a circle about 9–10 inches wide and about 1/3-inch thick.
4. Bake for approximately 17–19 minutes or until edges are lightly browned.
5. Allow the crust to cool completely before decorating it with frosting.

Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

1. In a medium bowl, beat together softened cream cheese and butter on medium speed until smooth (about 2 minutes).
2. Gradually add confectioners’ sugar and vanilla extract; continue beating until creamy.

Step 4: Assemble Your Fruit Pizza

1. Spread a thick layer of cream cheese frosting over the cooled cookie crust.
2. Decorate generously with assorted sliced fresh fruit.

Step 5: Serve Your Dessert

1. Cut into slices like a pizza.
2. Enjoy immediately or refrigerate leftovers for up to three days.

With its creamy frosting, soft crust, and vibrant fruits, this Fruit Pizza Summer Dessert is sure to be a hit at your next gathering!

How to Serve Fruit Pizza Summer Dessert

Serving fruit pizza is a delightful way to showcase its vibrant colors and flavors. This dessert can be enjoyed in various ways, making it perfect for any occasion.

Individual Slices

• Serve each slice on a colorful plate to enhance the visual appeal.
• Offer a dollop of whipped cream on the side for added creaminess.

Family-Style Platter

• Present the entire fruit pizza on a large serving platter.
• Garnish with mint leaves for a fresh touch that complements the fruits.

Dessert Bar

• Set up a dessert bar where guests can customize their slices.
• Provide additional toppings like chocolate drizzle or crushed nuts for added texture.

Picnic Treat

• Pack individual slices in portable containers for an easy picnic dessert.
• Pair with refreshing beverages like lemonade or iced tea for a complete summer experience.

How to Perfect Fruit Pizza Summer Dessert

To ensure your fruit pizza turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

• Chill the Dough: Letting the dough chill helps it firm up, making it easier to press into the pan and preventing spreading during baking.
• Avoid Over-Baking: Keep an eye on the crust while baking; it should be lightly golden at the edges for the best texture.
• Fresh Fruits Only: Use ripe, fresh fruits for maximum flavor and vibrant color. Avoid overly soft fruits that may not hold their shape.
• Layering Technique: Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly to create a smooth base before adding fruit. This enhances both appearance and taste.
• Refrigerate Before Serving: Letting your assembled fruit pizza sit in the refrigerator helps set the frosting and lets flavors meld together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Fruit Pizza Summer Dessert

Pairing side dishes with fruit pizza can elevate your dining experience. Here are some delicious options:

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers – Tender grilled chicken marinated in herbs adds protein and balances sweetness.
2. Caprese Salad – This fresh salad made with tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil offers a savory contrast to your sweet dessert.
3. Pasta Salad – A light pasta salad with vegetables provides a satisfying yet refreshing accompaniment.
4. Veggie Platter – Crisp vegetables with ranch dip offer a crunchy texture that complements fruit pizza’s softness.
5. Cheese Board – A selection of cheeses paired with crackers or bread creates a delightful contrast of flavors.
6. Fruit Salad – Another refreshing option; choose seasonal fruits to complement your fruit pizza without overpowering it.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Fruit Pizza Summer Dessert can be delightful, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

• Not chilling the dough – Failing to chill the cookie dough can lead to a crust that spreads too much during baking. Always chill the dough for at least 20 minutes.
• Overbaking the crust – Overbaking can result in a hard crust that doesn’t hold toppings well. Watch for lightly browned edges and remove it from the oven promptly.
• Using cold cream cheese – Starting with cold cream cheese will make it challenging to create smooth frosting. Always let it soften at room temperature first.
• Skipping fresh fruit prep – Not slicing your fruits properly can make decorating difficult. Cut all fruits into even slices for an appealing presentation.
• Rushing the cooling process – Trying to frost a warm crust will melt the cream cheese layer. Allow the crust to cool completely before adding frosting.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration – Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Containers – Use an airtight container or cover tightly with plastic wrap.

Freezing Fruit Pizza Summer Dessert

• Duration – Freezing is not recommended as fruit can become mushy when thawed.
• Containers – If you must freeze, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.

Reheating Fruit Pizza Summer Dessert

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (177°C) and warm for about 5-10 minutes; this method keeps the crust crisp.
• Microwave – Heat on medium power for 15-30 seconds; be cautious not to overheat, as this can change texture.
• Stovetop – Not recommended, as it may cause uneven heating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding the Fruit Pizza Summer Dessert:

Can I use different fruits?

Yes! Feel free to customize your fruit pizza with seasonal fruits or your favorites like strawberries, blueberries, or kiwi.

How do I prevent my cookie crust from spreading?

Chilling the dough before baking is essential. This helps maintain its shape and ensures a thicker crust.

Is there a gluten-free version of this dessert?

Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a tasty gluten-free option.

How long does this dessert last in the fridge?

The fruit pizza stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when stored properly.

Final Thoughts

The Fruit Pizza Summer Dessert is not only visually stunning but also versatile, allowing you to tailor it with your favorite fruits. Its combination of soft sugar cookie crust and creamy frosting makes it irresistible. Try experimenting with different toppings and let your creativity shine!