Fruit Pizza Sugar Cookie Crust

This fruit pizza is always a crowd-pleaser with its soft sugar cookie base a tangy layer of sweet cream cheese and a vibrant topping of fresh fruit. I love serving it at summer gatherings or anytime I am craving a simple but impressive treat that brings a little bit of sunshine to the table.

The first time I made this was for my sister’s baby shower and it instantly became our family’s requested dessert at every barbecue and celebration.

Ingredients

• Refrigerated sugar cookie dough: gives you a buttery sweet base without extra work choose a dough with simple ingredients for best flavor
• Cream cheese softened: for a luscious tangy frosting go for full-fat for creaminess
• Granulated sugar: sweetens the frosting choose organic if you like a finer texture
• Vanilla extract: adds warmth and enhances fruit flavors pure vanilla gives the richest taste
• Assorted fresh fruits: like strawberries blueberries kiwi grapes and mandarin oranges make it beautiful and bright pick ripe and colorful fruits for the freshest flavor
• Apricot preserves: for optional glaze create a glossy finish and subtle fruitiness use a brand with real fruit content
• Water: helps loosen the glaze if using

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Cookie Crust:

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit Arrange a pizza pan or baking sheet and press the cookie dough evenly into a circle about half an inch thick Press up the edges a bit to make a slight rim

Bake the Crust:

Place the pan in the oven and bake for twelve to fifteen minutes until the surface looks set and lightly golden Cool completely on a rack so the topping does not melt

Make the Cream Cheese Frosting:

In a mixing bowl beat the softened cream cheese with the granulated sugar and vanilla until smooth and fluffy Scrape the sides of the bowl while mixing for even texture

Frost the Crust:

Once the cookie base is fully cooled spoon the cream cheese mixture onto it Use an offset spatula to spread all the way to the edges and make an even layer

Decorate with Fruit:

Arrange your chosen fruits in patterns or concentric circles Start from the outside and work inward Overlap slices slightly for a pretty mosaic look

Optional Glaze:

If you want extra shine simmer apricot preserves with water in a small pan stirring until smooth Brush very lightly over the fruit with a pastry brush

Chill and Serve:

Place the finished pizza in the fridge for at least one hour This sets the frosting and helps the flavors meld Slice and serve cold for best taste and texture

Bookmark

Fruit pizza always reminds me of summer family picnics where everyone debated which fruit pattern looked best My favorite part is always the bright berries especially the blueberries which pop with every bite

Storage Tips

Wrap the fruit pizza loosely with plastic wrap or store in a large airtight container Keep it in the fridge to maintain freshness and texture It is best eaten within two days as the fruit can start to soften after that

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use a homemade sugar cookie dough instead of refrigerated for a from-scratch base If you want a dairy-free option use plant-based cream cheese and your favorite sugar alternative For the fruit topping mango pineapple or blackberries are great swaps depending on the season

Serving Suggestions

Cut into wedges like a traditional pizza for easy sharing It pairs perfectly with iced tea lemonade or a bubbly white wine Add a dollop of whipped cream to each slice for a little extra decadence

Bookmark

Cultural Context

Fruit pizza is a playful American dessert that took off in the 1980s often showing up at potlucks and kids’ birthday parties It celebrates abundance and creativity with its mosaic of fruits and is now a classic for holidays and backyard parties alike

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What fruits work best for topping?

Fresh, colorful fruits such as strawberries, blueberries, kiwi, grapes, and mandarin oranges are ideal. Slice them for easy arrangement, and use a mix to enhance both flavor and appearance.

→ How do I prevent the crust from becoming soggy?

Ensure the sugar cookie crust is baked until lightly golden and cooled completely before adding the cream cheese topping. This helps maintain a firm texture.

→ Can I prepare this dessert in advance?

Yes, you can assemble it several hours ahead and chill until serving. It’s best enjoyed within 1-2 days for optimal freshness.

→ Do I need to use the apricot glaze?

No, the glaze is optional. It adds shine and sweetness, but the dessert is delicious even without it. Simply brush lightly if you prefer a glossy finish.

→ Is there a substitute for the sugar cookie dough?

You can use homemade sugar cookie dough or even a gluten-free alternative if desired. The key is to keep the base soft and sturdy.