4th of July Fruit Pizza

This 4th of July Fruit Pizza is a delightful dessert that combines a soft sugar cookie crust with a creamy cheesecake topping and vibrant berries. Perfect for summer celebrations, this treat brings together fresh flavors and a festive presentation, making it ideal for your Independence Day gathering or any special occasion. Its easy preparation and stunning look will impress your guests and leave them wanting more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe features simple steps and accessible ingredients, ensuring success in the kitchen.
• Visually Stunning: The bright colors of the strawberries and blueberries create an eye-catching dessert perfect for summer festivities.
• Deliciously Versatile: You can customize the toppings with your favorite fruits, making it suitable for any occasion year-round.
• Kid-Friendly Fun: This fruit pizza is a great way to involve kids in the kitchen, allowing them to help with decorating.
• Perfect for Sharing: With eight servings, this dessert is ideal for parties, picnics, or family gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start creating your delicious 4th of July Fruit Pizza, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: A powerful tool that makes mixing cream cheese and other ingredients quick and easy.
• Baking sheet: Provides a flat surface for baking the cookie crust evenly without warping.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup effortless.

Ingredients

This 4th of July Fruit Pizza has an easy sugar cookie crust, cheesecake topping, and berries on top.

For the Cookie Crust

• 1 1/2 cups (188 grams) all-purpose flour or for gluten-free, see notes
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt (I used 1/2 teaspoon fine Himalayan pink salt)
• 1/2 cup (113 grams) unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup (150 grams) granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons lemon zest
• 1 1/2 teaspoons lemon extract
• 1 large egg (50 grams, out of shell) (room temp)

For the Cheesecake Topping

• 8 oz (225 grams) cream cheese (room temp)
• 1 1/3 cups (160 grams) powdered sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• 1/3 cup (80 ml) heavy cream (cold)

For the Toppings

• 1 pound (453 grams) strawberries – you need 20-26 small or medium strawberries, which is 11oz / 312 grams
• 6 oz (170 grams) blueberries – you need 52-57 blueberries, which is 155 grams / 5.4 oz

How to Make 4th of July Fruit Pizza

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheet with parchment paper for easy removal later.

Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Combine flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. In another bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add lemon zest, lemon extract, and egg; mix well.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture until just combined.

Step 3: Bake the Cookie Crust

Spread the dough evenly onto the prepared baking sheet:
1. Use a spatula to flatten it into an even layer.
2. Bake in preheated oven for about 15 minutes or until lightly golden.
3. Allow it to cool completely before adding toppings.

Step 4: Prepare Cheesecake Topping

In a medium bowl:
1. Beat cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth.
2. Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt; mix until creamy.
3. In another bowl, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form; gently fold it into the cream cheese mixture.

Step 5: Assemble Your Fruit Pizza

Once your cookie crust has cooled:
1. Spread cheesecake topping evenly over the crust using a spatula.
2. Decorate with sliced strawberries and blueberries on top in an attractive pattern.

Enjoy your festive creation! This 4th of July Fruit Pizza is bound to be a hit at any summer gathering!

How to Serve 4th of July Fruit Pizza

Serving your 4th of July Fruit Pizza can elevate the festive spirit of your gathering. Here are some creative ways to present this delicious dessert that will delight your guests.

Individual Slices

• Serve individual slices on colorful plates for a fun presentation.
• This makes it easy for guests to grab and enjoy without needing utensils.

Dessert Bar

• Create a dessert bar with the fruit pizza as the star.
• Add toppings like whipped cream, mint leaves, or extra berries for customization.

Picnic Style

• Cut the fruit pizza into smaller squares and place them in a picnic basket.
• Perfect for outdoor celebrations, allowing guests to snack while enjoying the sun.

Layered Dessert Cups

• Layer pieces of fruit pizza in clear cups with whipped cream.
• This adds a beautiful visual element and makes for an easy-to-eat treat.

How to Perfect 4th of July Fruit Pizza

To achieve the best results with your 4th of July Fruit Pizza, follow these helpful tips.

• Chill Ingredients: Make sure your cream cheese and heavy cream are at room temperature for easy mixing.
• Use Fresh Fruit: Opt for fresh strawberries and blueberries for vibrant flavor and color.
• Avoid Soggy Crust: Let the sugar cookie crust cool completely before adding toppings to prevent sogginess.
• Decorate Just Before Serving: Add the fruit topping just before serving to maintain freshness and texture.
• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add other fruits like raspberries or kiwi for variety.

Best Side Dishes for 4th of July Fruit Pizza

Pairing side dishes with your 4th of July Fruit Pizza can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some delightful options that complement this sweet dessert.

1. Grilled Veggie Skewers
   Colorful veggies grilled to perfection; they add a savory balance to your meal.
2. Classic Potato Salad
   Creamy potato salad with herbs is a traditional favorite that everyone loves.
3. Coleslaw
   Crunchy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast with its tangy flavor.
4. Corn on the Cob
   Sweet corn, grilled or boiled, is a seasonal staple that pairs beautifully with any dish.
5. Caprese Salad
   Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a light option.
6. Watermelon Feta Salad
   A refreshing salad combining sweet watermelon and salty feta cheese; it’s perfect for summer gatherings.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making 4th of July Fruit Pizza can be simple, but a few common mistakes can lead to disappointing results. Here’s how to avoid them:

• Overmixing the Dough: Overmixing can make your crust tough. Mix until just combined for a tender, soft crust.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Cold butter and cream cheese can create lumps. Always bring these ingredients to room temperature for a smooth cheesecake topping.
• Not Pre-Baking the Crust: Skipping the pre-bake step may result in a soggy crust. Bake until lightly golden for a firmer base.
• Ignoring Fruit Freshness: Using overripe fruit can spoil the taste. Choose fresh, firm strawberries and blueberries for the best flavor and presentation.
• Skipping Chilling Time: Not chilling the assembled pizza can lead to a mess when cutting. Chill it in the fridge for at least an hour for cleaner slices.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
• The 4th of July Fruit Pizza will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing 4th of July Fruit Pizza

• Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer bag.
• This dessert can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating 4th of July Fruit Pizza

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place slices on a baking sheet and warm for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on high for about 15-20 seconds. Be careful not to overheat as it may affect texture.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a non-stick skillet over low heat, covering with a lid. Heat until warmed through, about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is 4th of July Fruit Pizza?

4th of July Fruit Pizza is a festive dessert featuring a sugar cookie crust topped with cream cheese frosting and fresh berries, making it perfect for summer celebrations.

Can I make this fruit pizza gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate gluten-sensitive guests while maintaining great taste.

How do I choose ripe strawberries for my pizza?

Look for strawberries that are bright red, firm, and free from bruises or blemishes. Fresh berries will enhance the flavor and appearance of your dessert.

Can I customize the fruit toppings?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap or add different fruits like kiwi, raspberries, or peaches based on your preference or seasonal availability.

How long does the fruit pizza stay fresh?

When properly stored in the refrigerator, this delicious dessert will stay fresh for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing portions.

Final Thoughts

This 4th of July Fruit Pizza is not only visually appealing but also incredibly versatile. With its sweet sugar cookie crust and creamy topping, you can easily customize it with your favorite fruits. It’s perfect for summer gatherings or any festive occasion—give this delightful recipe a try!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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4th of July Fruit Pizza

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 8

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Description

Experience the perfect summer treat with this 4th of July Fruit Pizza—a delightful dessert that marries a soft sugar cookie crust with a rich cheesecake topping and a colorful array of fresh berries. This visually stunning dish not only brightens up your Independence Day celebrations but also captivates taste buds with its refreshing blend of flavors. Easy to make and even easier to customize, it’s an ideal addition to any festive gathering or family picnic. Impress your guests with this show-stopping dessert that’s as enjoyable to prepare as it is to eat.

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Ingredients

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• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons lemon zest
• 1 1/2 teaspoons lemon extract
• 1 large egg
• 8 oz cream cheese, room temperature
• 1 1/3 cups powdered sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• 1/3 cup heavy cream, cold
• 1 pound strawberries
• 6 oz blueberries

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, cream butter and sugar until fluffy. Add lemon zest, extract, and egg; blend well.
3. Gradually mix dry ingredients into wet until combined. Spread dough evenly on the baking sheet and bake for about 15 minutes until golden. Cool completely.
4. For the cheesecake topping: Beat cream cheese until smooth, add powdered sugar, vanilla, and salt; mix well. Whip heavy cream separately until stiff peaks form; fold into the cream cheese mixture.
5. Once cooled, spread the cheesecake topping over crust and decorate with sliced strawberries and blueberries.

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (95g)
• Calories: 330
• Sugar: 20g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 44g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 45mg