Summer is finally here. You need a dessert that is bright and refreshing for your next BBQ. This classic fruit pizza is the answer to your prayers.
Too hot to turn on the oven for long? This recipe only takes twelve minutes to bake. It is light, sweet, and perfect for cooling down on a sunny day.
Why You’ll Love This Classic Fruit Pizza
This dessert is a total crowd-pleaser. It looks like it came from a fancy bakery. Yet, it only takes a few minutes to prep. It is perfect for summer potlucks or backyard gatherings.
Your kids will love helping you decorate it. It is the ultimate kid-approved treat for warm days. You can use whatever fruit is currently in season at your market.
Simple Cooking Steps
Making this is as easy as pie. Actually, it is even easier than that. You start with a simple sugar cookie base. Then, you whip up a creamy frosting. Finally, you pile on your favorite fresh fruits. Even a beginner can make this look stunning.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Most of these items are pantry staples or easy to find. Fresh fruit makes it pop!
- 16.5 ounces refrigerated sugar cookie dough
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
- 1/2 cup fresh blueberries
- 2 kiwis, peeled and sliced
- 1/2 cup mandarin orange segments, drained
- 1/4 cup apricot preserves, melted
Step-by-Step Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Press the sugar cookie dough evenly into a 12-inch round pizza pan.
- Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until the edges are lightly browned.
- Transfer the pan to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Beat the softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla until smooth and light.
- Spread the frosting over the cooled crust, leaving a small margin.
- Arrange the strawberries, blueberries, kiwis, and oranges in decorative circles.
- Lightly brush the fruit with melted apricot preserves for a professional shine.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before slicing into wedges.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serve this chilled on a sunny afternoon. It looks beautiful on a large round platter. Slice it into wedges just like a real pizza. It pairs perfectly with a glass of cold lemonade. Enjoy it at your next family gathering or summer picnic.
Keep It Fresh
Store any leftovers in the refrigerator. Use an airtight container to keep it crisp and cool. It stays fresh for about two days. The fruit may release some juice over time. It is best enjoyed within 24 hours. Do not freeze this dessert as the fruit will get mushy.
Recipe Tips for Best Results
- Always use room temperature cream cheese for a smooth frosting.
- Don’t skip the apricot glaze to keep fruit looking fresh.
- Wait for the cookie crust to cool completely before frosting.
- Use a pizza cutter for perfectly clean wedges.
- Add a handful of fresh summer berries for extra color.
- Avoid using frozen fruit as it will bleed into the frosting.
- Pat your fruit dry with a paper towel before decorating.
Ways to Switch It Up
- Use a gluten-free cookie dough for a dietary-friendly option.
- In summer, swap mandarin oranges for fresh peaches.
- Swap apricot preserves for apple jelly if you prefer.
- Add a sprinkle of toasted coconut for a tropical twist.
Common Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the crust a day early. Store it at room temperature. Frost and add fruit just before serving for the best texture.
How do I know when the crust is done?
The edges should be a pale golden brown. It will still look soft in the middle. It firms up as it cools on the rack.
Will my kids eat the kiwi?
Most kids love the bright green color! If they are picky, let them choose the fruit. Making it a hands-on activity helps them try new things.
I hope this bright dessert brings a smile to your family this summer. It is so simple and fun to create together. Happy baking!
— Lidia
Classic Fruit Pizza
Ingredients
- 16.5 ounces refrigerated sugar cookie dough
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
- 1/2 cup fresh blueberries
- 2 kiwis , peeled and sliced
- 1/2 cup mandarin orange segments, drained
- 1/4 cup apricot preserves, melted
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Press the sugar cookie dough evenly into a 12-inch round pizza pan to form the crust.
- Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until the edges are lightly browned. Do not overbake.
- Transfer the pan to a wire rack and allow the cookie base to cool completely.
- In a medium mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and light.
- Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled cookie crust, leaving a half-inch margin at the edge.
- Arrange the strawberries, blueberries, kiwis, and mandarin oranges in decorative concentric circles starting from the outer edge.
- Lightly brush the arranged fruit with the melted apricot preserves to provide a professional glaze and prevent oxidation.
- Refrigerate the pizza for at least 30 minutes to allow the topping to set before slicing into wedges.
