Fruit Pizza Recipe

If you’re searching for a show-stopping dessert that’s as fun to make as it is to eat, Fruit Pizza should be at the very top of your list! A tender brown sugar cookie crust forms the canvas for a rich, maple-infused cream cheese frosting, all crowned with a colorful bounty of fresh fruit. Whether you’re cooking with kids or looking for a crowd-pleasing potluck treat, this recipe is a burst of joy and flavor in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Fruit Pizza celebrates simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that each add something special—flavor, texture, or a pop of vibrant color. Here’s everything you need, along with my favorite tips for getting the most out of every component.

• All-purpose flour: The backbone of the cookie crust, giving it just the right chewiness and structure; keep a little extra for easy rolling.
• Baking powder: Helps the crust rise lightly for a soft, cake-like base.
• Salt: Balances sweetness and sharpens all the flavors in the dough.
• Unsalted butter: Softened for extra-creamy blending; this gives the crust a rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Light brown sugar: Adds a subtle caramel note and softness to the cookie crust.
• Egg: Binds the dough and adds tenderness.
• Vanilla extract: Deepens the flavor, making every bite taste homemade.
• Almond extract: Just half a teaspoon adds an irresistible, subtle nuttiness.
• Low-fat cream cheese: Creamy, tangy, and a little lighter, it makes a dreamy base for your frosting.
• Maple syrup or honey (or powdered sugar): Adds natural sweetness—pick your favorite for a unique twist on the frosting.
• Fine sea salt: Just a pinch in the frosting brings the flavors into perfect balance.
• Fresh strawberries and berries of your choice: Go wild! Pick the brightest, juiciest berries for color and flavor—blueberries, raspberries, blackberries or any other fruit you fancy.
• Honey (optional): A light drizzle before serving adds extra shine and sweetness.

How to Make Fruit Pizza

Step 1: Prepare the Pan and Preheat

Begin by heating your oven to 350°F, ensuring it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake. Grease a quarter sheet pan, 9 x 13-inch baking dish, or a 12-inch round pizza pan with cooking spray. A rimmed pan keeps things tidy and makes it easier to spread the dough, so choose your favorite shape—the Fruit Pizza will turn out delicious either way.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together your flour, baking powder, and salt. This simple step ensures that the baking powder and salt are evenly distributed, so the cookie base bakes up soft, golden, and perfectly seasoned every time.

Step 3: Blend Wet Ingredients

Next, grab a large mixing bowl and use a hand or stand mixer to beat together the softened butter and light brown sugar. Aim for a creamy, fluffy texture—this should take about two minutes. Add in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract, scraping down the sides as needed. Blend until everything is silky-smooth and wonderfully fragrant.

Step 4: Combine Everything Into Dough

Now, pour in your dry ingredients, and mix on low speed just until the dough comes together. Avoid over-mixing here; you want the crust tender, not tough. If the dough feels sticky, chill it for 10 minutes—it makes pressing it into the pan much easier!

Step 5: Press and Bake the Crust

Evenly press the dough into your prepared pan, making sure it’s mostly level from edge to edge. A helpful trick: dip your fingers in a bit of water to keep the dough from sticking. Use a fork to poke a few holes all over; this prevents any bubbly surprises in the oven. Bake for 15 to 18 minutes, until golden and just set, then transfer to a wire rack and let it cool for 20 minutes.

Step 6: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

While the base cools, whisk together the cream cheese, your sweetener of choice (maple syrup, honey, or powdered sugar), vanilla, and a pinch of sea salt. Beat it all until smooth and creamy—it should be easy to spread but thick enough to hold up those juicy berries.

Step 7: Decorate With Fruit & Serve

Once the crust is completely cool, spread the frosting all over in a thick, even layer. Now comes the fun part: pile on your favorite fresh fruit. Arrange slices of strawberries and scatter berries in a rainbow of colors—get as creative as you like. For an extra flourish, drizzle a touch of honey over the top. Slice, serve, and watch everyone’s eyes light up!

How to Serve Fruit Pizza

Garnishes

For a picture-perfect finish, try a sprinkling of finely chopped fresh mint or a delicate zest of lemon or lime over the top. A light dusting of powdered sugar is another beautiful option, especially just before serving. If you want to take things up a notch, a gentle drizzle of warm honey creates a glistening, bakery-style look on your Fruit Pizza.

Side Dishes

Fruit Pizza is naturally sweet and festive, so it pairs perfectly with savory nibbles to round out the spread. Consider serving with bowls of lightly salted nuts, a platter of sharp cheeses, or mini quiches for a gorgeous brunch or picnic spread. Chilled iced tea, sparkling lemonade, or even a fruit-forward sangria all make excellent beverage partners.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re feeling playful, bake the crust in mini tart pans or muffin tins for individual Fruit Pizzas—ideal for parties or bake sales. You can also cut the baked cookie into whimsical shapes (like hearts or stars) before decorating with fruit. For a family-style feel, simply serve in wedges like a classic pizza, letting everyone pick their favorite fruity slice.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers (and that’s a big “if”!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The Fruit Pizza keeps beautifully for up to three days, though the crust is at its best within the first 24 hours. To keep everything fresh and vibrant, lay a sheet of wax paper between layers so the fruit doesn’t get squished.

Freezing

You can make the cookie crust ahead and freeze it, tightly wrapped, for up to two months. Let it cool completely, then wrap in plastic wrap and foil. When you’re ready, thaw overnight at room temperature before frosting and adding fruit. I recommend adding the cream cheese and fruit just before serving, as fresh fruit tends not to freeze and thaw well.

Reheating

While Fruit Pizza is typically enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, if you’d like to slightly soften the cookie base, just let it sit out on the counter for 10–15 minutes before serving. Avoid reheating in the oven or microwave, as the cream cheese frosting and fruit are best served cool and fresh.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought sugar cookie dough for the crust?

Yes, you can save a little time by starting with pre-made sugar cookie dough. Just keep in mind it will be a tad sweeter and less nuanced than this homemade brown sugar version, but it still works beautifully if you’re in a hurry.

What other fruits work well for Fruit Pizza?

There are so many delicious options! Besides strawberries and berries, try kiwi, mandarin segments, peaches, mango, pineapple, or grapes. Just aim for fruit that’s colorful and not too juicy, so it holds up well on the frosting.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute your favorite gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in equal amounts. The crust will be a little more delicate, so be gentle when spreading and removing from the pan, but the flavors will still shine.

How far ahead can I assemble Fruit Pizza?

The best way is to bake the crust and prepare the frosting in advance, storing each separately. Assembled Fruit Pizza is best enjoyed the same day it’s decorated so the fruit stays fresh and the crust crisp. Assemble just a few hours before serving for best results.

Can I reduce the sugar or use a sugar substitute?

You can experiment with reducing the brown sugar in the crust by a few tablespoons, but keep in mind this may affect tenderness. In the frosting, honey or maple syrup are natural alternatives, or you can try a powdered sugar substitute—just add it gradually and adjust for taste and texture.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a dessert that’s as joyful to share as it is to create, I hope you’ll give this Fruit Pizza a try. It’s lively, colorful, and always a hit, whether you’re celebrating summer or just want an excuse to enjoy a little sweetness with family and friends. Gather your favorite fruit, invite everyone to decorate, and dig in—you’re in for a treat!

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