This fun dessert pizza is perfect for the 4th of July! With a sweet cookie crust and topped with cream cheese frosting, it’s covered in fresh berries that make it look just like the flag.
It’s so easy to make, you’ll have time to enjoy the fireworks! I love to serve it chilled; it gives a nice refreshing vibe on a hot summer day. Plus, it’s a hit with kids and adults alike! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sugar Cookie Dough: This is the base for the pizza. You can use homemade dough if you prefer, but store-bought is so convenient! A gluten-free cookie dough can also be used for those with dietary restrictions.
Cream Cheese: For that creamy frosting, regular cream cheese works best. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can try Neufchâtel cheese. Vegan cream cheese is also a great substitute for dairy-free versions.
Powdered Sugar: This sweetens the cream cheese frosting, making it smooth and easy to spread. You could powder regular granulated sugar in a blender if you don’t have powdered sugar on hand.
Fresh Berries: Blueberries and raspberries are perfect for the flag design. You can substitute strawberries for raspberries if you prefer! Just make sure to cut them to size for even layering.
How Do I Make Sure My Cookie Crust is Perfectly Baked?
Baking the cookie crust correctly is key to a great dessert pizza. Here are a few tips:
- Preheat your oven properly; this ensures even cooking.
- Keep an eye on the edges – you want them golden brown but not burnt! If they’re browning too quickly, lower the heat slightly.
- Let it cool completely before spreading the frosting to prevent it from melting.
A well-baked crust sets a strong foundation for your creamy frosting and fresh fruits, making every bite delightful! Enjoy assembling your patriotic dessert pizza!
Easy Patriotic 4th of July Dessert Pizza
Ingredients:
- 1 (15 oz) refrigerated sugar cookie dough
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- 1 cup fresh raspberries
Time Estimate:
This delightful dessert pizza will take about 15 minutes of prep time and 12-15 minutes to bake, plus at least 1 hour chilling time. In total, you’ll need around 1 hour and 30 minutes, making it a quick sweet treat for your 4th of July celebration!
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare your baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to ensure easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the Cookie Dough:
Open the refrigerated sugar cookie dough and roll it out on the prepared baking sheet. Aim for a large rectangle that measures about 10×14 inches. Use a knife or pizza cutter to make the edges neat if you’d like.
3. Bake the Cookie Crust:
Pop the cookie crust into the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. You’re looking for a lovely golden brown color on the edges. Once done, carefully take it out and let it cool completely.
4. Make the Cream Cheese Frosting:
While the crust cools, it’s time to whip up the frosting. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese along with the powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Keep mixing until it’s all smooth and creamy—this will be your delicious topping!
5. Spread the Frosting:
Once your cookie crust has cooled, grab a spatula and evenly spread the cream cheese frosting over the entire surface of the cookie. It’s okay to be generous!
6. Decorate with Blueberries:
To create the stars of the flag, arrange the fresh blueberries in a square shape in the upper left corner of the dessert pizza. This will give it that festive flair!
7. Create the Stripes:
Now, it’s time for the fun part! Alternate rows of raspberries and piped cream cheese frosting to make the stripes for the flag. You can use a piping bag or a simple sandwich bag with a cut-off corner for this step.
8. Chill and Serve:
Finally, cover your masterpiece and refrigerate the dessert pizza for at least 1 hour. This helps the frosting set and the flavors blend beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, cut it into squares and enjoy your festive treat!
This dessert pizza is a delicious and colorful way to celebrate the 4th of July, bringing a smile to everyone’s face with its sweet flavors and patriotic design. Happy Independence Day! 🎆
Can I Use Different Fruits for Decoration?
Absolutely! While blueberries and raspberries create a classic patriotic look, you can use strawberries, blackberries, or even slices of kiwi for variety. Just make sure to adjust for color and taste!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best enjoyed chilled, but you might need to reapply a bit of frosting for freshness!
Can I Make This Dessert Pizza Gluten-Free?
Yes! You can easily use gluten-free sugar cookie dough as a substitute. Just follow the same baking instructions, and you’ll have a gluten-free version of this festive treat!
Can I Prepare This Recipe in Advance?
Definitely! You can bake the cookie crust a day ahead and store it wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature. Just make the frosting and add the fruit decorations on the day you plan to serve it to keep everything fresh.
