Ah, Thanksgiving! It’s that magical time of year when we gather with loved ones, share stories, and indulge in delicious food. One of my absolute favorite treats to whip up for this festive occasion is my *thanksgiving fruit pizza*. It’s not just a dessert; it’s a vibrant centerpiece that brings joy and color to the table! I remember making this for the first time with my kids, their eyes lighting up as we arranged the fruits like a beautiful mosaic. Trust me, this delightful twist on traditional desserts will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Ingredients List
Gathering your ingredients for this *thanksgiving fruit pizza* is half the fun! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 pre-made sugar cookie dough: This will be your delicious, sweet crust. You can find it in the refrigerated section of your grocery store.
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened: Make sure it’s softened so it mixes smoothly. Leave it out for about 30 minutes before you start.
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar: This adds sweetness and a lovely smooth texture to the cream cheese mixture.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: For that warm, comforting flavor that ties everything together.
- 2 cups assorted fresh fruits: I love using a mix of kiwi, strawberries, blueberries, and grapes for color and taste, but feel free to get creative with seasonal fruits!
- 1/4 cup fruit preserves: Choose your favorite flavor—this will be drizzled on top for a glossy finish and extra fruity goodness.
Don’t worry if you can’t find something on this list—feel free to substitute! The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility!
How to Prepare Instructions
Let’s get this *thanksgiving fruit pizza* started! It’s super simple, and I promise you’ll love how it all comes together. Here’s how to do it:
- First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is the perfect temperature for baking that cookie crust to golden perfection.
- Next, take your pre-made sugar cookie dough and spread it evenly onto a pizza pan. Don’t worry about it being perfect; just aim for a nice, even layer. Pop it in the oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until it’s lightly golden and smells heavenly!
- Once it’s out of the oven, let the cookie crust cool completely. This step is crucial because you don’t want to melt the cream cheese mixture when you spread it on.
- While the crust is cooling, grab a mixing bowl and combine the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Use a hand mixer or a whisk to mix until it’s nice and smooth—this will be the creamy base.
- Now, spread that luscious cream cheese mixture evenly over your cooled cookie crust. Take your time here; it should look pretty and inviting!
- It’s time for the fun part! Arrange your assorted fresh fruits on top of the cream cheese layer. Get creative—make it as colorful and beautiful as you like!
- To finish, warm up the fruit preserves in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds until it’s just slightly runny. Drizzle it over the fruits to add that shiny, sweet touch.
- Finally, chill your masterpiece in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving. This helps everything set nicely and makes it refreshing to eat.
And there you have it! Your *thanksgiving fruit pizza* is all set to impress family and friends. Enjoy the process—it’s all part of the fun!
Nutritional Information
Let’s talk about the estimated nutritional value of your delightful *thanksgiving fruit pizza*! Keep in mind, these numbers can vary a bit based on the specific brands and ingredients you use, but here’s a general idea:
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 220
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 15g
- Protein: 3g
This is a sweet treat, so enjoy it in moderation, and feel free to adjust the ingredients to fit your dietary needs! Happy indulging!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this festive treat in no time!
- Perfect for holiday gatherings: This *thanksgiving fruit pizza* is sure to be a showstopper at your Thanksgiving table, bringing smiles and bright colors.
- Colorful and appealing presentation: The vibrant array of fresh fruits not only looks stunning but also adds a burst of freshness to your dessert spread.
- A refreshing twist on traditional desserts: If you’re looking to break away from the usual pumpkin pie, this fruity delight offers a light and zesty alternative!
- Vegetarian-friendly: Everyone can enjoy this dessert, making it a great option for diverse gatherings.
Tips for Success
Ready to make your *thanksgiving fruit pizza* even more fabulous? Here are my top tips to ensure it turns out just right:
- Use seasonal fruits: Feel free to swap in whatever fresh fruits are in season! Apples, pears, or even pomegranate seeds can add a festive flair and unique flavor.
- Make it colorful: The more colors you have, the more visually appealing your pizza will be! Try to include a mix of bright and bold fruits like raspberries, mandarin oranges, and even some sliced bananas.
- Chill your ingredients: For the best texture, ensure your cream cheese is softened, but if you have time, chilling the fruit before arranging it can keep it crisp and refreshing.
- Presentation matters: Arrange the fruits in a pattern or design that’s pleasing to the eye. You could even create a fun shape or pattern for a more playful touch!
- Experiment with the cream cheese layer: For a twist, mix in some lemon or orange zest to the cream cheese mixture for a citrusy kick, or add a dollop of Greek yogurt for added tang and creaminess.
- Drizzle with honey: Instead of fruit preserves, try a light drizzle of honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetness that pairs beautifully with the fruits.
Remember, the key is to have fun and let your creativity shine through. Happy baking!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to enjoying your *thanksgiving fruit pizza*, the right accompaniments can make all the difference! Here are some delightful ideas to elevate your dessert experience:
- Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or a soothing herbal tea pairs wonderfully with the fruity flavors. Try a spiced chai or a light green tea to complement the sweetness without overwhelming it.
- Sparkling Water: For a refreshing twist, serve some sparkling water with a slice of lemon or lime. It cleanses the palate beautifully between bites of your delicious pizza!
- Other Desserts: If you’re feeling indulgent, consider serving mini pumpkin pies or chocolate mousse cups alongside. This way, guests can choose between fruity freshness and rich flavor!
- Cheese Platter: A small cheese board with soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese can provide a savory contrast to the sweetness of the fruit pizza, making for an interesting flavor combination.
- Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or coconut ice cream on the side will add a creamy, dreamy element that pairs perfectly with the textures of the fruit pizza!
Whatever you choose, the goal is to create a festive atmosphere where everyone can enjoy the flavors of the season. Happy celebrating!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve made this gorgeous *thanksgiving fruit pizza* and have some leftovers—don’t worry, it stores beautifully! Here’s how to keep it fresh:
- Refrigeration: Place any uneaten slices in an airtight container or cover the pizza with plastic wrap. It’ll stay fresh in the fridge for about 3-4 days. Just make sure to keep it chilled since it has dairy in the cream cheese layer!
- Serving cold: This dessert is best served cold, so there’s no need to reheat it. Just slice it up straight from the fridge, and it’s ready to enjoy again!
- Freezing: If you need to store it for a longer period, you can freeze individual slices. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for about 1-2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw them in the fridge overnight!
Remember, the fresh fruits may lose some texture after freezing, so for the best flavor and presentation, I recommend enjoying it fresh when possible. However, even the leftovers are still a delightful treat! Happy storing!
FAQ Section
Can I use homemade cookie dough instead of pre-made?
Absolutely! If you have a favorite sugar cookie recipe, feel free to use it. Just make sure to follow the baking instructions to get the right texture for your *thanksgiving fruit pizza* crust.
What fruits work best for this fruit pizza?
I love using a mix of kiwi, strawberries, blueberries, and grapes, but you can get creative! Seasonal fruits like apples, pears, or even mandarin oranges make great additions too. Just choose what you love!
How far in advance can I make the *thanksgiving fruit pizza*?
You can prepare it a day ahead of time! Just be sure to store it in the fridge. It’s best enjoyed cold, and letting it chill overnight helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
Can I add nuts or other toppings?
Definitely! A sprinkle of chopped nuts like walnuts or almonds can add a lovely crunch. You could also drizzle some melted chocolate for a decadent twist!
Is this dessert suitable for vegans?
This recipe contains cream cheese, which is dairy-based, so it’s not vegan as is. However, you can use a vegan cream cheese alternative to make it vegan-friendly. Just check the ingredients to ensure it’s suitable for your dietary needs.
Thanksgiving Fruit Pizza: 7 Reasons You’ll Adore This Delight
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A festive fruit pizza perfect for Thanksgiving.
Ingredients
- 1 pre-made sugar cookie dough
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups assorted fresh fruits (kiwi, strawberries, blueberries, grapes)
- 1/4 cup fruit preserves
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Spread the sugar cookie dough onto a pizza pan and bake for 12-15 minutes.
- Let the cookie crust cool completely.
- In a bowl, mix cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture over the cooled cookie crust.
- Arrange the fresh fruits on top of the cream cheese layer.
- Warm the fruit preserves and drizzle over the fruits.
- Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Use seasonal fruits for a festive look.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator.
- Consider adding a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: thanksgiving fruit pizza, fruit dessert, holiday dessert
