Fruit Pizza Cookies are a fun twist on traditional cookies! They are soft, chewy cookies topped with creamy frosting and colorful fruit. Perfect for parties or just a sweet treat!
These cookies are like mini fruit tarts that satisfy my sweet tooth. I love how customizable they are—use whatever fruits you have at home. Bonus points if you can make it look like a rainbow! 🌈
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-Purpose Flour: This forms the base of your cookies. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, almond flour or a gluten-free baking blend can work well, just keep in mind the texture may vary slightly.
Unsalted Butter: For a richer flavor, I use unsalted butter. If you’re dairy-free, coconut oil or vegan butter can be a good substitute in equal amounts.
Cream Cheese: The smoothness in your frosting comes from cream cheese. If you want a lighter option, consider using Greek yogurt or mascarpone cheese instead; they’ll provide a creamy texture without being too heavy.
Fresh Fruits: You can get creative with the fruits you choose! If some are out of season, consider using canned or frozen fruits. Just be sure to drain any excess liquid to prevent sogginess.
How Can You Ensure Perfectly Shaped Cookies?
Shaping the cookies may seem tricky, but it’s all about the technique! Here’s how to achieve a great cookie shape and texture.
- Once you make the dough, let it chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes. This helps the cookies hold their shape while baking.
- Use a cookie scoop for evenly sized portions. If you don’t have one, your hands work just fine. Just aim for about 1.5 inches in diameter.
- When flattening the balls, do it gently to keep the cookies thick and chewy. Aim for about ¼ inch thick.
- Watch the baking time closely. These cookies should be golden at the edges but might look soft in the center. They’ll harden as they cool!
How to Make Fruit Pizza Cookies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cookies:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Toppings:
- 1 cup mixed fresh fruits (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, kiwi, mandarin oranges)
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare and 10-12 minutes to bake. You’ll also need time to cool the cookies, so plan on about 30 minutes in total before they’re ready to serve! Perfect for a quick and tasty treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. It’s good to get the oven ready so your cookies bake evenly!
2. Make the Cookie Dough:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. In a larger bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together using a mixer or a whisk until the mixture is light and fluffy. Add in the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is well combined. Gradually add in the dry ingredients, mixing gently until they are just combined. Don’t overmix; we want soft cookies!
3. Shape the Cookies:
Now it’s time to make the cookie shapes! Using a cookie scoop or your hands, take portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, making sure to leave some space between each ball. Flatten each ball slightly to make them cookie-shaped, about ¼ inch thick. Bake these cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are a lovely golden color. Once baked, allow them to cool completely on a wire rack.
4. Prepare the Frosting:
While your cookies are cooling, let’s make the frosting! In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until it becomes smooth and creamy. This will be the yummy layer on top!
5. Assemble the Cookies:
Once your cookies are completely cool, it’s time to frost them! Spread a generous layer of the cream cheese frosting over the top of each cookie. Take your time to make them look nice; after all, presentation is part of the fun!
6. Add the Fruit Toppings:
Now for the best part—toppings! Decorate each frosted cookie with a colorful assortment of mixed fresh fruits. You can arrange them as you like; get creative! Make it look like a cheerful pizza!
7. Garnish and Serve:
If you want to make your cookies extra special, top each one with a small mint leaf for that lovely touch. Serve them immediately to enjoy their freshness, or you can pop them in the fridge if you’re saving them for later. Enjoy your delicious Fruit Pizza Cookies!
Can I Use a Different Type of Fruit for the Toppings?
Absolutely! You can use any favorite fruits you have on hand or seasonal fruits for a fresh twist. Just make sure to chop larger fruits into bite-sized pieces for easier handling and eating!
What if I Don’t Have Cream Cheese?
No problem! You can substitute the cream cheese with Greek yogurt, mascarpone cheese, or even a dairy-free cream cheese alternative if you prefer a lighter or vegan option. Adjust the powdered sugar to taste for sweetness!
Can I Make the Cookie Dough Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make the cookie dough ahead of time! Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 2 months. If frozen, thaw it in the fridge overnight before baking.
How Should I Store the Leftover Cookies?
Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They’re best enjoyed fresh, but if you want to keep them, just layer parchment paper between the cookies to prevent sticking!
