These fun Fruit Pizza Cookies are like little desserts wearing a fruity crown! Soft sugar cookies topped with sweet cream cheese frosting and colorful fruits make them a hit at any party.
They look so cheerful and taste amazing! I always let the kids pick their favorite fruits to add on top. It’s a tasty and creative way to enjoy fruit! 🍓🍍
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-Purpose Flour: This is the base for your cookies. If you want a gluten-free option, consider using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. The texture will be a bit different, but still tasty.
Butter: Unsalted butter is ideal for this recipe, as it allows for better control over the saltiness. If you need a dairy-free option, coconut oil or a plant-based butter can work well and keep the cookies moist.
Cream Cheese: This gives the frosting a rich, creamy texture. If you prefer a lighter alternative, you could use Greek yogurt or a dairy-free cream cheese. Just note that the flavor will change slightly.
Fresh Fruits: You can mix and match any fruits you like! If fresh fruit isn’t available, thawed frozen fruit or even a fruit compote can be delicious. Just make sure to drain excess moisture to keep your cookies from getting soggy.
How Do I Make Sure My Cookies Turn Out Perfectly?
Getting the cookies right is key. Start by creaming your butter and sugars until it’s light and fluffy. This creates air pockets that make your cookies tender. Next, be careful not to overmix once you add the dry ingredients; just mix until the dough comes together. This helps keep them soft!
- Preheat the oven properly; an accurate temperature ensures even baking.
- When you scoop the dough, aim for uniform sizes so they bake evenly.
- Let cookies cool on a rack. This keeps the bottoms from steaming and getting soggy.
How to Make Fruit Pizza Cookies?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cookie Base:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for frosting)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)
For Topping:
- Assorted fresh fruits (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, kiwi, mandarin oranges, etc.)
- Mint leaves for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes for prep and around 10-12 minutes for baking. Don’t forget to let the cookies cool for a bit afterward! Total time including cooling might be about 30-35 minutes before you can enjoy your cookies.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will keep your cookies from sticking and make cleanup easier!
2. Make the Dough:
In a mixing bowl, take your softened butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar. Using a mixer or a wooden spoon, cream them together until the mixture is light and fluffy. Once that’s done, mix in the vanilla extract to add a lovely flavor.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients:
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This helps ensure that the baking powder is evenly distributed in your cookie dough.
4. Mix Everything Together:
Gradually add the dry ingredient mix to your fluffy butter mixture. Stir until a dough begins to form. It might be a little sticky, but that’s perfect!
5. Shape the Cookies:
Scoop small amounts of dough and roll them into balls—about the size of a tablespoon works great! Flatten each ball into a cookie shape and place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between them.
6. Bake the Cookies:
Put the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes or until they’re lightly golden. Once they’re done, take them out and let them cool on a wire rack. This makes them nice and chewy!
7. Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting:
While the cookies are cooling, grab another bowl and mix the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Stir until it’s smooth and creamy, ready to slather onto your cookies!
8. Decorate and Enjoy:
Once the cookies are cool, spread a generous layer of the cream cheese mixture on top of each cookie. Now for the fun part! Top each cookie with an assortment of fresh fruits, arranging them in a way that looks pretty. If you want, add a mint leaf on top for garnish!
9. Serve and Delight:
Enjoy your delicious fruit pizza cookies right away! They’re perfect for summer gatherings or any time you crave a sweet and refreshing treat!
Can I Substitute the Cream Cheese?
Yes, you can! If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using Greek yogurt or mascarpone cheese instead of cream cheese. Just ensure whatever substitute you use is softened so it spreads easily over the cookies.
How Can I Make These Cookies Gluten-Free?
To make these cookies gluten-free, simply swap the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking mix. Be sure to check that the mix contains xanthan gum or add it separately based on the mix’s instructions to maintain the right texture.
Can I Prepare the Cookies Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can make the cookie dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, simply scoop and bake as directed. Alternatively, you can bake the cookies, let them cool, and freeze them for up to a month. Just frost them with the cream cheese mixture before serving!
What Fruits Work Best for Topping?
While any fresh fruit works, berries like strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries are especially popular for their color and flavor. You can also use sliced kiwis or mandarin oranges for a tropical twist. Just ensure all fruits are washed and sliced appropriately for an appealing presentation!
