Fruit Pizza Recipe

Are you looking for a delightful dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious? Look no further than fruit pizza! This delightful treat combines a chewy cookie crust with a creamy, sweet topping and a colorful assortment of fresh fruits. It’s perfect for summer gatherings, parties, or just a sweet treat to enjoy with your loved ones.

Ingredients:

For the Cookie Crust:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt

For the Topping:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Assorted fresh fruits (such as strawberries, kiwi, blueberries, raspberries, grapes, etc.)
• Optional: ¼ cup apricot preserves or fruit glaze for topping

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cookie Crust:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 12-inch pizza pan.
• In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
• Add the egg and vanilla extract, beating well until combined.
• In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms.
• Press the dough evenly onto the prepared pizza pan, creating a crust about ½-inch thick.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow the crust to cool completely.

2. Prepare the Topping:

• In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
• Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until creamy and well combined.
• Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled cookie crust.

3. Arrange the Fruit:

• Wash and prepare your assortment of fresh fruits. Slice larger fruits like strawberries and kiwi into thin slices.
• Arrange the fruits over the cream cheese topping in a decorative pattern. Get creative with your design!
• If desired, gently warm apricot preserves or fruit glaze in the microwave and brush over the arranged fruits for a glossy finish.

4. Serve and Enjoy:

• Once assembled, chill the fruit pizza for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
• Slice into wedges and serve chilled. Enjoy the burst of fruity flavors and creamy goodness with each bite!

Tips:

• Experiment with different fruit combinations based on what’s in season or your personal preferences.
• For a twist, you can use a sugar cookie dough or even a shortbread crust instead of the traditional cookie crust.
• Leftovers can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, though it’s best enjoyed fresh.

Conclusion:
Fruit pizza is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes with its vibrant colors and fresh ingredients. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, a birthday party, or simply craving something sweet, this recipe is sure to impress. Try it out and let the fruity goodness of this delightful dessert brighten your day!