Fruit Pizza Cookies: A Delicious & Easy Dessert Recipe

If you’re looking for a fun and colorful dessert that brings smiles to everyone’s faces, you’ve come to the right spot! Fruit Pizza Cookies: A Delicious & Easy Dessert Recipe is one of those treats that feels like a celebration no matter the occasion. Whether it’s a sunny afternoon with friends, a family gathering, or even just a sweet surprise for your kids after school, these cookies are sure to impress. They combine soft sugar cookie bases with creamy frosting and vibrant fresh fruit, making them not only delicious but also visually stunning.

This recipe holds a special place in my heart because it’s so versatile and easy to whip up. Plus, there’s something magical about decorating each cookie together as a family. It turns baking into an enjoyable activity that everyone can participate in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: The step-by-step instructions ensure that even novice bakers can create these delightful cookies without stress.
• Family-Friendly Fun: Decorating these cookies with colorful fruits is a great way to get everyone involved in the kitchen.
• Make Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake.
• Customizable Toppings: Use whatever fruits are in season or your family’s favorites for endless variations.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Fruit Pizza Cookies use simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. Let’s gather what we need for this delightful dessert!

For the Cookie Base

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2-3 tablespoons milk or heavy cream (for desired consistency)

For the Toppings

• 1 cup sliced strawberries
• 1 cup blueberries
• 1 cup raspberries
• 1 cup kiwi, peeled and diced
• ½ cup mandarin orange segments (canned, drained well)
• ¼ cup apricot jam or apple jelly, warmed (for glaze)

Variations

One of the best things about these cookies is how flexible they are! You can easily switch things up based on your tastes or what’s available. Here are some fun ideas:

• Change Up the Fruits: Use seasonal fruits like peaches or bananas for a different flavor profile.
• Try Different Frostings: Swap out the cream cheese frosting for whipped coconut cream for a lighter option.
• Add Some Crunch: Sprinkle chopped nuts on top of your fruit for an added texture.
• Make Them Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour for a delicious alternative.

How to Make Fruit Pizza Cookies: A Delicious & Easy Dessert Recipe

Step 1: Cream Together Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl or stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes. This step is important because it incorporates air into the mixture, helping your cookies rise beautifully.

Step 2: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then stir in the vanilla extract. This adds moisture and flavor to your cookie dough!

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients separately helps ensure that everything blends evenly into your dough later.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture while mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; this will keep your cookies tender.

Step 5: Prepare Dough for Chilling

Divide the dough in half and flatten each half into discs. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or preferably 2-3 hours). Chilling helps solidify the butter which makes rolling out easier!

Step 6: Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats. This ensures an easy release from the sheets after baking.

Step 7: Roll Out Dough

On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disc of chilled dough to about ¼ inch thickness. Rolling it out evenly will help all your cookies bake uniformly.

Step 8: Cut Out Cookies

Use a round cookie cutter (about 3-4 inches in diameter) to cut out cookies. Reroll any scraps until all dough is used. This fun step will leave you with lovely cookie shapes ready for baking!

Step 9: Bake Cookies

Place cookies on prepared sheets with space between them and bake for about 8-10 minutes until edges are lightly golden brown. Letting them cool briefly on sheets ensures they hold their shape before transferring them.

Step 10: Prepare Cream Cheese Frosting

In another bowl or stand mixer, cream together softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar one cup at a time while mixing on low speed until combined.

Step 11: Adjust Frosting Consistency

Stir in vanilla extract then add milk or heavy cream one tablespoon at a time until frosting reaches desired consistency – smooth but thick enough to spread easily over cookies.

Step 12: Decorate Your Cookies

Once cooled completely, spread frosting generously over each cookie! Get creative as you arrange sliced strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, kiwi, and mandarin oranges atop each frosted treat.

Step 13: Glaze With Jam

Warm apricot jam or apple jelly until melted; brush it over fruit toppings for shine! This step keeps them fresh while adding an extra touch of sweetness.

Step 14: Chill Before Serving

Refrigerate fruit pizza cookies for at least 30 minutes before serving so they set perfectly! Enjoy every colorful bite of this delightful dessert with friends and family!

Pro Tips for Making Fruit Pizza Cookies: A Delicious & Easy Dessert Recipe

Creating the perfect Fruit Pizza Cookies is all about attention to detail and a few handy tricks!

• Chill Your Dough: Allowing the dough to chill for 1-3 hours makes it easier to handle and results in thicker cookies that hold their shape during baking.

• Use Fresh Fruits: Opting for fresh, in-season fruits not only enhances the flavor but also adds vibrant colors that make your cookies visually stunning.

• Don’t Skimp on the Frosting: A generous layer of cream cheese frosting not only tastes amazing but also acts as a delicious glue to hold your fruit toppings in place.

• Experiment with Fruit Combinations: Feel free to mix and match fruits according to your preference or what’s available. This allows you to customize each batch and keep things exciting!

• Add a Zesty Twist: For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon or lime juice to the frosting, which can brighten up the whole dessert!

How to Serve Fruit Pizza Cookies: A Delicious & Easy Dessert Recipe

When it comes to serving these delightful cookies, presentation can elevate them from simple treats to show-stoppers at any gathering!

Garnishes

• Mint Leaves: Adding a few fresh mint leaves on top of each cookie can provide a pop of color and a refreshing flavor contrast.
• Zest: Sprinkling some citrus zest (like lemon or lime) over the fruits can add an aromatic touch that enhances the overall taste.

Side Dishes

• Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing fruit salad complements these cookies wonderfully; consider using similar fruits for cohesion.
• Yogurt Parfait: Creamy yogurt layered with granola and more fresh fruits makes for a lovely side dish that balances out the sweetness of the cookies.
• Iced Tea: Serve these cookies with a chilled glass of iced tea for a refreshing beverage pairing that’s perfect for warm days.
• Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses can provide a savory contrast to the sweet flavors of your fruit pizza cookies, making for an interesting flavor profile.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll be well on your way to impressing family and friends with your delightful Fruit Pizza Cookies. Enjoy!

Make Ahead and Storage

These fruit pizza cookies are not only a delightful treat but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make them ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy them fresh whenever you need a sweet pick-me-up.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• If you prefer, refrigerate the cookies for a longer shelf life (up to 1 week), but the frosting may lose some of its texture.
• Keep the cookies separated with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing

• To freeze, place the unfrosted cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag and store for up to 3 months.
• Frosted cookies can also be frozen; however, it’s best to freeze them without fruit toppings. Add the toppings after thawing.

Reheating

• To enjoy your cookies warm, simply place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes.
• If using the microwave, heat each cookie for about 10-15 seconds until just warmed through.

FAQs

If you have questions about making these delicious fruit pizza cookies, you’re in the right place!

Can I make Fruit Pizza Cookies ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the cookie bases and frostings in advance. Just assemble them with fresh fruit when you’re ready to serve.

What is the best way to store Fruit Pizza Cookies?

Store your fruit pizza cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days. For longer storage, refrigerate or freeze them as mentioned above.

Can I use different fruits on my Fruit Pizza Cookies?

Definitely! Feel free to mix and match your favorite fruits. Just ensure they are fresh and colorful for that beautiful presentation!

How long do Fruit Pizza Cookies last?

When stored properly, these cookies can last up to a week in the refrigerator or up to three months in the freezer if unfrosted.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Fruit Pizza Cookies! They are not just visually appealing but incredibly delicious too. Perfect for gatherings or just a sweet treat at home, I’m sure they will be a hit! Enjoy every bite and don’t hesitate to share this delightful recipe with friends and family. Happy baking!