These Easy Fruit Pizza Cookies are a fun twist on dessert! A soft cookie base topped with creamy frosting and colorful fresh fruit makes them a hit at any gathering.
You’ll love how simple they are to make! Just bake the cookies, spread on some frosting, and let your kids (or inner child) arrange the fruit. It’s like art you can eat! 🍕🍪
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Butter: Use unsalted butter for more control over the sweetness. If you’re looking for dairy-free options, substitute with coconut oil or vegan butter, both giving a rich flavor.
Granulated Sugar: Regular granulated sugar works best here. For a healthier option, you can use coconut sugar, though it may alter the cookie’s color slightly.
Cream Cheese: This adds creaminess to your frosting. If you’re lactose intolerant, use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative. Greek yogurt can be a lighter option too, though the flavor will be different.
Fruit: Select fruits that are in season or whatever your family enjoys. Berries, peaches, or even bananas can be great choices. If fresh fruits aren’t available, consider using canned fruit, but be sure they are drained well.
How Do You Get the Cookies to Stay Soft and Chewy?
To achieve soft and chewy cookies, pay attention to your mixing and baking times:
- Don’t over-mix your dough; mix just until the flour disappears.
- Keep an eye on the baking time. Pull the cookies from the oven when the edges start turning light golden, even if the centers look underbaked—the cookies will firm up as they cool.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps keep them soft.
With these tips, your cookies will be deliciously tender and the perfect base for your fruity toppings!
How to Make Easy Fruit Pizza Cookies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cookie Base:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Toppings:
- Assorted fresh fruits: strawberries (halved), raspberries, blueberries, kiwi (diced), mandarin orange segments
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes for preparation, followed by baking for 10-12 minutes. After baking, allow the cookies to cool for about 20 minutes before adding the frosting and fruit. Total time, including cooling and decorating, is about 1 hour.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures it’s hot enough to bake the cookies evenly. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Make the Cookie Dough:
In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Then add in the egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, mixing well to combine.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overmix!
4. Shape the Cookies:
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of the cookie dough onto your lined baking sheet, spacing the cookies about 2 inches apart. Flatten each mound slightly with the bottom of a glass or your hand to create round shapes.
5. Bake the Cookies:
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them to avoid over-baking. Once done, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool completely on a wire rack.
6. Prepare the Frosting:
While the cookies are cooling, it’s time to make the frosting! In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until it’s smooth and creamy—no lumps allowed!
7. Assemble the Cookies:
Once the cookies are completely cool, spread a generous layer of the cream cheese frosting on top of each one. Don’t be shy with the frosting; we want a nice, creamy layer!
8. Add the Fresh Fruit:
Finally, it’s time to decorate! Arrange the assorted fresh fruit on top of the frosting in any colorful pattern you like. Get creative—this is part of the fun!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
These cookies are best served right away, but you can also refrigerate them for later! Enjoy your deliciously creative fruit pizza cookies!
FAQ for Easy Fruit Pizza Cookies
Can I Use Different Fruits for Toppings?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix it up with your favorite fruits or whatever is in season. Berries, peaches, and bananas also work wonderfully. Just make sure to use fruits that won’t release too much moisture on the frosting.
How Should I Store Leftover Cookies?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They are best enjoyed fresh, but they can stay good for a few days as long as they are chilled properly. Just keep in mind that the fruit may get soggy over time.
Can I Make the Cookie Dough in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the cookie dough and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before baking. Just let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before scooping and baking to ensure it spreads properly.
What Can I Use Instead of Cream Cheese in the Frosting?
If you prefer a lighter option or need a dairy-free alternative, you can use Greek yogurt or a dairy-free cream cheese substitute. Honey or maple syrup can also be added to sweeten if you’re using yogurt.
