These fun Fruit Pizza Cookies are like little dessert pizzas that will make you smile! With a soft cookie base, a sweet cream cheese topping, and colorful fruit, they’re both cute and tasty!
Honestly, who can resist a cookie that looks like a pizza? I love to let the kids help decorate them with their favorite fruits. It’s a sweet way to enjoy a colorful treat together!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-purpose flour: This acts as the base for the cookies. If you’re gluten-sensitive, try using a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour. The texture might vary, but they’ll still be tasty!
Butter: Unsalted butter is perfect as it allows you to control the saltiness. If you’re in a pinch, or need a dairy-free option, coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute works well too.
Cream cheese: A must for the frosting! If you’re not a cream cheese fan, try mascarpone cheese for a similar texture but a milder taste. For a dairy-free alternative, use a plant-based cream cheese alternative.
Assorted fresh fruits: Feel free to mix and match your favorites! Berries are great, but you can also use banana slices or apple wedges. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different seasonal fruits!
How Do I Get My Cookies to Be Soft and Chewy?
The key to soft and chewy cookies is in the mixing and baking time. Here’s how to achieve that perfect texture:
- Crema the butter and sugar well until fluffy; this incorporates air for softness.
- Don’t overmix the dough after adding the flour. Just mix until everything is combined.
- Flatten the dough balls slightly before baking; this helps them spread and bake evenly.
- Bake until the edges are golden, and the centers look slightly underbaked. They will firm up as they cool.
It’s all about keeping them moist in the center while achieving a slight crispiness around the edges! Enjoy those delicious cookies!
How to Make Fruit Pizza Cookies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cookie Base:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)
For Topping:
- Assorted fresh fruits (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, kiwi, oranges)
- Mint leaves for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 10-12 minutes to bake. After baking, you should let the cookies cool completely before frosting, which may take around 30 minutes. Total time is approximately 1 hour, including cooling time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cookies bake evenly. While the oven is heating, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to keep your cookies from sticking.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugar:
In a medium bowl, use a mixer or a sturdy spoon to cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar. Mix until the mixture is smooth and fluffy, which takes about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add the Egg and Vanilla:
Beat in the egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until everything is well combined. This will create a nice, creamy mixture that will help bind your cookies together.
4. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This helps to evenly distribute the leavening agents and salt in the cookie dough.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix! It’s okay if the dough is a little soft.
6. Shape the Cookies:
Using a tablespoon, scoop the dough onto your prepared baking sheet, leaving enough space between each cookie for them to spread. Gently flatten each scoop with your hand to form a nice cookie shape.
7. Bake the Cookies:
Bake your cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until they are lightly golden around the edges. Once done, let them cool completely on a wire rack.
8. Make the Frosting:
While your cookies are cooling, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until it’s smooth and creamy.
9. Frost the Cookies:
Once the cookies have fully cooled, spread a generous layer of the cream cheese frosting on top of each cookie. Get creative—make them as frosted as you like!
10. Decorate with Fresh Fruits:
Top each frosted cookie with a lovely assortment of fresh fruits. You can arrange them however you like—it’ll make your cookies look extra inviting!
11. Garnish (Optional):
If you want, add a small sprig of mint on top of each cookie for a lovely touch of color and flavor.
12. Serve or Refrigerate:
Your Fruit Pizza Cookies are ready to enjoy! Serve them immediately, or you can refrigerate them until you’re ready to serve for a cool treat.
Enjoy your delicious Fruit Pizza Cookies!
Can I Use a Different Type of Flour?
Absolutely! You can substitute whole wheat flour or almond flour for a healthier option or gluten-free version. Just keep in mind that the texture might change slightly; whole wheat will be denser, while almond flour may be a bit softer. If using almond flour, consider adding an extra tablespoon or two of it to help form the cookies properly.
How Can I Store Leftover Cookies?
Leftover cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them fresh longer, you can refrigerate them for about a week. Just note that the fruit toppings are best added just before serving to maintain their freshness and prevent sogginess!
Can I Make the Dough Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time! Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 2 days. If you need to store it longer, consider freezing the dough. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before baking!
What Other Fruits Can I Use?
You can mix and match various fruits to your liking! Some great alternatives include sliced bananas, peaches, or even cherries. Just make sure the fruits are fresh and ripe to maximize flavor and presentation!
