4th of July Fruit Pizza

This 4th of July Fruit Pizza is the perfect festive dessert to celebrate Independence Day! With its sweet sugar cookie crust, creamy cheesecake topping, and vibrant berries, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or attending a picnic, this fruit pizza adds a delightful touch. It’s colorful, delicious, and easy to prepare, making it an excellent choice for summer celebrations.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this dessert in no time.
• Visually Stunning: The bright colors of the strawberries and blueberries create an eye-catching presentation that impresses guests.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap out berries or add your favorite fruits for a personal touch.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: While ideal for the 4th of July, this fruit pizza works well for birthdays, potlucks, and summer gatherings.
• Deliciously Refreshing: The combination of cookie base and creamy topping with fresh fruit makes it a refreshing treat on warm days.

Tools and Preparation

Preparing your 4th of July Fruit Pizza is easier with the right tools. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without mess.
• Electric mixer: Helps achieve a smooth cheesecake filling quickly.
• Baking sheet: Provides a sturdy surface for baking the cookie crust.

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: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookie crust bakes evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Cookie Crust

1. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. In another bowl, beat together softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add lemon zest, lemon extract, and egg; mix until well combined.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; mix until just combined.
5. Spread the dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet in an even layer.

Step 3: Bake the Cookie Crust

Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes or until lightly golden. Remove from oven and let it cool completely.

Step 4: Make the Cheesecake Topping

1. In a clean mixing bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth.
2. Gradually add powdered sugar while mixing; continue until combined.
3. Mix in vanilla extract and pinch of salt.
4. In another bowl, whip cold heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
5. Gently fold whipped cream into cream cheese mixture until smooth.

Step 5: Assemble Your Fruit Pizza

Once cooled, spread the cheesecake topping over the cookie crust evenly. Arrange strawberries and blueberries on top in a festive pattern.

Now your beautiful 4th of July Fruit Pizza is ready to impress! Enjoy every bite at your celebration!

How to Serve 4th of July Fruit Pizza

Serving 4th of July Fruit Pizza is as delightful as making it. This colorful dessert is perfect for festive gatherings and can be presented in various fun ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your celebration.

Individual Slices

• Serve each guest a slice of the fruit pizza on a decorative plate for an elegant touch.
• Garnish with extra mint leaves or a sprinkle of lemon zest for added freshness.

Fruit Skewers

• Cut the fruit pizza into bite-sized pieces and thread them on skewers.
• This makes for a fun, handheld treat that is easy to enjoy at outdoor parties.

Mini Pizzas

• Use cookie cutters to create mini versions of the fruit pizza.
• These are great for kids and can be customized with different toppings.

Dessert Bar

• Set up a dessert bar with toppings like whipped cream, chocolate sauce, or additional fruits.
• Allow guests to customize their slices, making it interactive and engaging.

Festive Platter

• Arrange the fruit pizza slices on a large platter surrounded by fresh fruits.
• This creates a vibrant centerpiece that draws attention and showcases the festive spirit.

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How to Perfect 4th of July Fruit Pizza

To ensure your 4th of July Fruit Pizza turns out perfectly, follow these simple tips. They will help you achieve the best flavor and presentation.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ensure butter, cream cheese, and eggs are at room temperature for smooth blending.
• Don’t overbake the crust: Bake just until golden brown to keep the cookie soft and chewy.
• Chill before serving: Refrigerate your finished fruit pizza for at least an hour to set the cream cheese layer nicely.
• Choose ripe fruits: Select fresh, ripe strawberries and blueberries for maximum flavor and sweetness.
• Experiment with toppings: Feel free to add other seasonal fruits like raspberries or kiwi for variety.
• Cut with care: Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to make clean slices without disturbing the toppings.

Best Side Dishes for 4th of July Fruit Pizza

Pairing side dishes with your 4th of July Fruit Pizza can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some tasty options that complement this sweet treat beautifully.

1. Grilled Corn Salad: A refreshing mix of grilled corn, bell peppers, and cilantro adds a crunchy contrast.
2. Classic Coleslaw: Creamy coleslaw provides a tangy balance to the sweetness of the pizza.
3. Watermelon Feta Salad: The juicy watermelon paired with salty feta creates a delightful summer flavor combo.
4. BBQ Chicken Wings: Spicy wings offer a savory kick that pairs well with sweet desserts like fruit pizza.
5. Caprese Skewers: Fresh basil, mozzarella, and tomatoes on skewers bring Italian flair to your spread.
6. Pasta Salad: A light pasta salad with veggies and Italian dressing adds substance without overpowering dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your 4th of July Fruit Pizza, avoid these common errors for the best results.

• Not letting ingredients reach room temperature: Ensure that your butter and cream cheese are softened. This helps them blend smoothly into the mixture.
• Overbaking the cookie crust: Keep an eye on the baking time. The crust should be lightly golden, not dark brown, to maintain a tender texture.
• Skipping the lemon zest: This ingredient adds a crucial flavor boost to your crust and cheesecake topping. Don’t skip it for a bland result!
• Choosing overripe or mushy fruit: Select fresh berries for the best presentation and taste. Overripe fruit can make your pizza soggy.
• Not chilling the cheesecake layer: Allowing it to set properly in the fridge ensures a firmer texture that holds up well when slicing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• item Store any leftover 4th of July Fruit Pizza in an airtight container.
• item It will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing 4th of July Fruit Pizza

• item Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap or foil before placing them in a freezer-safe container.
• item You can freeze for up to 2 months, but note that fresh fruit may change texture upon thawing.

Reheating 4th of July Fruit Pizza

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat slices for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 30 seconds, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making 4th of July Fruit Pizza.

What is a 4th of July Fruit Pizza?

A 4th of July Fruit Pizza is a festive dessert featuring a sugar cookie crust topped with creamy cheesecake filling and fresh berries arranged to resemble the American flag.

Can I use different fruits on my pizza?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize your 4th of July Fruit Pizza with seasonal fruits like peaches or kiwi for added color and flavor.

How long does it take to prepare this dessert?

The preparation time for this delicious dessert is approximately 30 minutes, followed by an additional baking time of about 15 minutes.

Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blends specifically designed for baking.

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the crust and cheesecake topping in advance. Assemble with fresh fruit just before serving for optimal freshness.

Final Thoughts

This 4th of July Fruit Pizza is not only visually stunning but also deliciously versatile. Its easy sugar cookie crust and creamy topping make it perfect for summer celebrations. Feel free to customize it with your favorite fruits or toppings; each variation brings its own delightful twist. Try making this crowd-pleaser at your next gathering!